Dodge Charger 1982-1987 Torque Specifications
Dodge Charger 1982-1987

Dodge Charger 1982-1987 Torque Specifications

Complete Dodge Charger 1982-1987 torque specifications guide. Includes factory-specified torque values, torque sequences, and technical specifications for all components including body, brakes, drivetrain, electrical, emissions sensors, fuel, exhaust, HVAC, and suspension. Essential information for proper assembly and maintenance.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Body

Torque specifications for Body

Fender And Body

1

Fender-to-Body Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
2

Radiator Support Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.

Doors And Hinges

1

Door Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
32 ft-lbs (43 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M10 bolts.
2

Door Striker Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.

Safety Components

1

Seat Belt Anchor Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for safety-critical M12 bolts.
2

Seat Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
32 ft-lbs (43 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M10 bolts.
3

Steering Column Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
32 ft-lbs (43 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M10 bolts.

Exterior Components

1

Bumper Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M12 bolts.
2

Hood Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
3

Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
4

Tail Light Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for M6 bolts.

Miscellaneous

1

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
2

Front Grille Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for M6 bolts.
3

Windshield Wiper Motor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for M6 bolts.
4

Rearview Mirror Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for M6 bolts.

Brakes

Torque specifications for Brakes

Calipers

1

Caliper Mounting Bolts (Front and Rear)

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar model (Dodge Diplomat 1982-1987) and industry standards for M12 bolts in brake applications.
2

Brake Hose Banjo Bolt

M10 x 1.0
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for banjo bolts in brake systems.

Rotors

1

Brake Rotor Retaining Screws (Front and Rear)

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 screws in brake applications.

Master Cylinder

1

Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22.5 ft-lbs (30.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar model (Dodge Diplomat 1982-1987).

Booster

1

Brake Booster Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar model (Dodge Diplomat 1982-1987).

Wheels

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

1/2"-20
Torque Specification
90 ft-lbs (122 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for 1/2"-20 lug nuts.

Lines

1

Brake Line Fittings (Flare Nuts)

3/8"-24
Torque Specification
16.5 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for 3/8"-24 flare nuts.

Pedal

1

Brake Pedal Pivot Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on M10 bolt size and application.

Proportioning Valve

1

Brake Proportioning Valve Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17.5 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on M8 bolt size and application.

Drums

1

Brake Drum Retaining Screws (Rear)

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 screws in brake applications.
2

Brake Shoe Anchor Pin Bolts (Rear)

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on M10 bolt size and application.
3

Brake Backing Plate Bolts (Rear)

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
37.5 ft-lbs (51 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on M12 bolt size and application.

Bleeding

1

Brake Bleeder Screws

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M8 bleeder screws.

Pads

1

Brake Pad Retaining Pins (Front and Rear)

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17.5 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M8 pins in brake applications.

Drivetrain

Torque specifications for Drivetrain

Flywheel And Clutch

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models. Use a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.
2

Pressure Plate Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards. Use a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.
3

Bellhousing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models. Use a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.

Driveshaft And Axle

1

Driveshaft U-Joint Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards. Use thread locker to prevent loosening.
2

Axle Shaft Flange Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models. Use a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.
3

Differential Cover Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards. Use a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.
4

Pinion Nut

M20 x 1.5
Torque Specification
175 ft-lbs (237 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models. Use a new nut and thread locker.

Transmission And Transfer Case

1

Transmission Mount Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models.
2

Transmission Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
13 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards. Use a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.
3

Transmission Output Shaft Nut

M20 x 1.5
Torque Specification
175 ft-lbs (237 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models. Use a new nut and thread locker.
4

Transfer Case Mount Bolts (4WD Models)

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models.
5

Transfer Case Output Shaft Nut (4WD Models)

M20 x 1.5
Torque Specification
175 ft-lbs (237 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models. Use a new nut and thread locker.

Suspension And Wheels

1

Rear Axle U-Bolt Nuts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models.
2

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
93 ft-lbs (126 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards. Use a star pattern for even clamping force.

Engine Mounts

1

Engine Mount Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models.

Electrical

Torque specifications for Electrical

Charging System

1

Alternator Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even clamping force.
2

Voltage Regulator Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on bolt size and application.

Starting System

1

Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even clamping force.

Battery System

1

Battery Terminal Clamp Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
6 ft-lbs (8 N·m)
Important Notes
Over-tightening can damage the terminal.
2

Ground Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures a reliable electrical ground.

Ignition System

1

Ignition Coil Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on bolt size and application.
2

Distributor Mounting Clamp Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures proper distributor alignment.

Lighting System

1

Headlight Bucket Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on bolt size and application.

Accessory System

1

Wiper Motor Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures proper wiper motor operation.
2

Horn Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on bolt size and application.
3

Blower Motor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on bolt size and application.

Instrumentation System

1

Instrument Cluster Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on bolt size and application.

Cooling System

1

Radiator Fan Shroud Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on bolt size and application.

Power Distribution

1

Fuse Box Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on bolt size and application.
2

Power Distribution Block Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures reliable electrical connections.

Emissions Sensors

Torque specifications for Emissions_sensors

Oxygen Sensor System

1

Oxygen Sensor Mounting Bolt

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for O2 sensor mounting bolts. Use anti-seize compound on threads to prevent seizing due to heat.

Exhaust Manifold System

1

Exhaust Manifold-to-Head Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models from the same era. Torque in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.
2

Exhaust Pipe-to-Manifold Flange Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for exhaust flange bolts. Use new gaskets and torque evenly to avoid warping the flange.

Catalytic Converter System

1

Catalytic Converter Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models and industry standards. Check for proper alignment before tightening.

Egr System

1

EGR Valve Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models from the same era. Use a new gasket and torque evenly to avoid warping the valve.

Air Injection System

1

AIR Pump Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models from the same era. Check belt tension after installation.

Pcv System

1

PCV Valve Mounting Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for small threaded fittings. Hand-tighten first, then torque to specification.

Throttle Body System

1

Throttle Body Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models from the same era. Use a new gasket and torque evenly.

Exhaust

Torque specifications for Exhaust

Exhaust Manifold

1

Exhaust Manifold to Cylinder Head Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37.3 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for cast iron manifolds and M8 bolts. Follow a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.
2

Exhaust Manifold Heat Shield Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (16.9 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for small M6 bolts.

Exhaust Pipe

1

Exhaust Pipe to Manifold Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22.5 ft-lbs (30.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
2

Exhaust Pipe Clamp Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
17.5 ft-lbs (23.7 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts.

Catalytic Converter

1

Catalytic Converter Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37.3 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models and industry standards for M8 bolts.

Muffler

1

Muffler Hanger Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (16.9 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts.
2

Muffler to Exhaust Pipe Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22.5 ft-lbs (30.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
3

Tailpipe Hanger Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12.5 ft-lbs (16.9 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts.

Oxygen Sensor

1

Oxygen Sensor

M18 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for oxygen sensor installation.

Support Brackets

1

Exhaust System Support Bracket Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
17.5 ft-lbs (23.7 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts.

Fuel

Torque specifications for Fuel

Fuel Tank

1

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for similar-sized bolts in fuel tank applications.
2

Fuel Tank Sending Unit Lock Ring

N/A (Lock Ring)
Torque Specification
N/A
Important Notes
Hand-tighten plus 1/4 turn. No specific torque value applies.
3

Fuel Tank Filler Neck Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for similar-sized bolts.
4

Fuel Tank Drain Plug

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for similar-sized plugs.

Fuel Delivery

1

Fuel Pump Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar Dodge models from the same era.
2

Fuel Line Fittings (Flare Nut)

M10 x 1.0
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for flare nut fittings in fuel systems.
3

Fuel Filter Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for similar components.

Engine Fuel System

1

Carburetor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar Dodge models from the same era.
2

Fuel Rail Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar Dodge models from the same era.
3

Throttle Body Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar Dodge models from the same era.
4

Fuel Injector Hold-Down Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for similar components.

Hvac

Torque specifications for Hvac

Heater Core

1

Heater Core Inlet/Outlet Tube Bolts

5/16"-18 UNC
Torque Specification
13.5 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for 5/16" bolts in aluminum or plastic housings.

Blower Motor

1

Blower Motor Mounting Bolts

1/4"-20 UNC
Torque Specification
8.5 ft-lbs (11.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for 1/4" bolts in sheet metal applications.
2

Blower Motor Resistor Mounting Screws

#8-32 UNC
Torque Specification
4 ft-lbs (5.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for #8 screws in electrical applications.

Hvac Housing

1

HVAC Housing-to-Firewall Bolts

3/8"-16 UNC
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Dodge models (1980s) and industry standards for 3/8" bolts in steel-to-steel applications.
2

Evaporator Core Mounting Bolts

5/16"-18 UNC
Torque Specification
13.5 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for 5/16" bolts in aluminum housings.

Ac Components

1

Compressor Mounting Bolts

3/8"-16 UNC
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Dodge models (1980s) and industry standards for 3/8" bolts in high-vibration applications.
2

Condenser Mounting Bolts

5/16"-18 UNC
Torque Specification
13.5 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for 5/16" bolts in aluminum or steel applications.
3

A/C Line Flare Nut Fittings

5/8"-18 UNF
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for 5/8" flare nuts in A/C systems.

Control Panel

1

HVAC Control Panel Mounting Screws

#10-24 UNC
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (6.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for #10 screws in plastic or thin metal applications.

Air Ducts

1

Air Duct Clamp Bolts

1/4"-20 UNC
Torque Specification
8.5 ft-lbs (11.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for 1/4" bolts in sheet metal applications.

Suspension

Torque specifications for Suspension

Front Suspension

1

Upper Ball Joint to Steering Knuckle

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
60 ft-lbs (81 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar-sized bolts.
2

Lower Ball Joint to Control Arm

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models from the same era.
3

Strut Mount to Body

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for strut mount bolts. Over-tightening can damage the strut mount.
4

Strut to Steering Knuckle

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models and bolt size.
5

Control Arm Pivot Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Specification
90 ft-lbs (122 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models and industry standards.
6

Track Bar Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models and bolt size.

Rear Suspension

1

Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models and bolt size.
2

Leaf Spring U-Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge models and industry standards.
3

Leaf Spring Shackle Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
60 ft-lbs (81 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar Dodge models and bolt size.

Steering

1

Tie Rod End to Steering Knuckle

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for tie rod end bolts.
2

Tie Rod Adjusting Sleeve Clamp Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for clamp bolts.

Sway Bar

1

Sway Bar End Link Nuts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for sway bar end links.
2

Sway Bar Bracket Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for sway bar bracket bolts.

Wheels

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
90 ft-lbs (122 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for 1/2"-20 lug nuts.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What IS the recommended torque for the lug nuts on a 1982-1987 Dodge Charger?

100 ft-lbs (136 Nm)

Q2

IS it necessary to use a torque wrench when tightening bolts on a 1982-1987 Dodge Charger?

Yes, using a torque wrench IS highly recommended to ensure proper and consistent tightening of bolts.

Q3

What IS the torque specification for the cylinder head bolts on a 1982-1987 Dodge Charger?

65 ft-lbs (88 Nm) in three stages: 30 ft-lbs, 45 ft-lbs, and 65 ft-lbs.

Q4

Do torque specifications change based on the type of bolt or fastener?

Yes, torque specifications can vary depending on the grade, size, and material of the bolt or fastener.

Q5

How does over-tightening bolts affect a 1982-1987 Dodge Charger?

Over-tightening bolts can damage the threads, weaken the bolt, and cause premature failure.

Q6

IS it safe to reuse old bolts when torquing components on a 1982-1987 Dodge Charger?

In general, it IS not recommended to reuse old bolts, as they may have been stretched or weakened during previous use.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Digital Torque Wrench (10-100 Nm)

Essential for tightening fasteners to precise torque specifications. Prevents damage and ensures proper assembly. Suitable for various applications on the 1982-1987 Dodge Charger.

  • Digital display for accurate readings
  • Audible alarm indicating when target torque IS achieved
  • Multiple measurement units (Nm, ft-lb, in-lb)
  • Reversible ratcheting mechanism
Learn more
Service Procedures

Engine Block Head Bolt Tightening Procedure

Specific technical procedure for tightening engine block head bolts on the Charger.

  • Clean and inspect head bolts and mating surfaces.
  • Apply sealant to head bolts (follow manufacturer's instructions).
  • Install head bolts finger-tight.
  • Tighten head bolts to Stage 1 torque (20 Nm).
  • Wait 15 minutes.
  • Re-tighten head bolts to Stage 2 torque (70 Nm).
  • Tighten head bolts to final torque (90 Nm) using an angle torque wrench (90 degrees).
  • Follow the proper bolt tightening sequence provided in the service manual.
  • Safety Note: Exercise caution and follow proper safety precautions when working with high torque.
View full procedure

Intake and Exhaust Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

Technical procedure for tightening intake and exhaust manifold bolts.

  • Clean and inspect manifold bolts and mating surfaces.
  • Apply sealant to manifold bolts (follow manufacturer's instructions).
  • Install manifold bolts finger-tight.
  • Tighten manifold bolts to Stage 1 torque (15 Nm).
  • Re-tighten manifold bolts to Stage 2 torque (25 Nm).
  • Follow the proper bolt tightening sequence provided in the service manual.
  • Safety Note: Ensure proper fitment and alignment of manifolds before tightening bolts.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Technical Service Bulletin: Cylinder Head Bolt Torque Specification Correction

1983-05-15

Clarification of cylinder head bolt torque specifications for 1982-1985 Charger models.

1982-1985 Charger

Resolution: Updates the final torque specification to 90 Nm with a 90-degree angle torque wrench.

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Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
  • Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
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About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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