Dodge Charger 2011-present W5A580 Transmission Transmission Torque Specifications & Bolt Torque Values
Dodge Charger 2011-present

Dodge Charger 2011-present W5A580 Transmission Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for the W5A580 transmission bolts on the 2011-Present Dodge Charger. Includes bolt types, torque values, and installation tips.

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

Transmission Mounting

Bolts and components that secure the transmission to the vehicle's chassis, ensuring proper alignment and preventing vibration.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the transmission before tightening.

Oil Pan

Bolts and components that secure the transmission oil pan, ensuring a proper seal to prevent fluid leaks.

1

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new gasket and ensure the pan surface is clean before installation.

Fluid Management

Components related to the draining, filling, and cooling of transmission fluid.

1

Transmission Drain Plug

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the plug is properly seated to prevent leaks.
2

Transmission Fill Plug

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the plug is properly seated to prevent leaks.
3

Transmission Cooler Line Fittings

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the cooler lines to prevent leaks.

Drivetrain Connection

Components that connect the transmission to the drivetrain, including axles, drive shafts, and CV joints.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
147 ft-lbs (200 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the axle before tightening.
2

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
147 ft-lbs (200 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the axle is properly seated before tightening.
3

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the drive shaft before tightening.

Starter Motor

Bolts that secure the starter motor to the transmission housing, ensuring proper alignment and operation.

1

Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the starter motor before tightening.

Torque Converter

Bolts that secure the torque converter to the flexplate, ensuring proper alignment and operation.

1

Torque Converter Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the torque converter before tightening.

Bellhousing

Bolts that secure the transmission bellhousing to the engine block, ensuring a proper seal and alignment.

1

Transmission Bellhousing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the bellhousing before tightening.

Valve Body

Bolts that secure the valve body and solenoid pack inside the transmission, ensuring proper fluid flow and shifting operation.

1

Transmission Valve Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the valve body before tightening.
2

Transmission Solenoid Pack Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the solenoid pack before tightening.

Shift Linkage

Bolts that secure the shift linkage to the transmission, ensuring proper shifting operation.

1

Transmission Shift Linkage Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the shift linkage before tightening.

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 specification for the transmission pan bolts on a 2011-Present Dodge Charger with the W5A580 transmission?

The recommended torque specification for the transmission pan bolts on the W5A580 transmission is 89 in-lbs (10 Nm). Ensure the pan surface is clean and the gasket is properly aligned before tightening to avoid leaks.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on the transmission pan bolts?

It is recommended to check the torque on the transmission pan bolts every 30,000 miles or whenever the transmission fluid is changed. Over time, vibrations and thermal cycling can cause bolts to loosen, potentially leading to leaks.

Q3

Can I reuse the transmission pan bolts after removing them?

While it is possible to reuse the transmission pan bolts, it is generally recommended to replace them with new bolts to ensure proper torque and prevent potential leaks. Reused bolts may have stretched or worn threads, compromising their effectiveness.

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

A precision tool for applying the correct torque to transmission bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Digital display for accurate readings
Learn more

Torque Angle Gauge

Used to measure the angle of rotation when torque-to-yield bolts are used.

  • Magnetic base for easy attachment
  • 360-degree rotation measurement
Learn more

Transmission Jack

A hydraulic jack designed to safely support and position the transmission during installation.

  • Adjustable height and tilt
  • Safety locking mechanism
Learn more
Service Procedures

W5A580 Transmission Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed steps to ensure proper torque application for the W5A580 transmission system.

  • Step 1: Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces to ensure proper torque application.
  • Step 2: Use a digital torque wrench to apply the specified torque in the correct sequence.
  • Step 3: For torque-to-yield bolts, use a torque angle gauge to achieve the required rotation after initial torque.
  • Step 4: Double-check all bolts to ensure they meet the specified torque values.
View full procedure

Transmission Removal and Installation

Procedure for safely removing and reinstalling the W5A580 transmission.

  • Step 1: Disconnect the battery and remove any components obstructing the transmission.
  • Step 2: Use a transmission jack to support the transmission and remove mounting bolts.
  • Step 3: Carefully lower the transmission and disconnect all electrical connectors and fluid lines.
  • Step 4: Reverse the process for installation, ensuring all bolts are torqued to specifications.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

W5A580 Transmission Bolt Torque Specification Update

2020-05-15

Updated torque specifications for certain bolts in the W5A580 transmission system.

2011-2023 Dodge Charger

Resolution: Refer to the latest service manual for updated torque values and ensure proper torque application during service.

Transmission Fluid Leak Due to Improper Bolt Torque

2019-08-22

Reports of transmission fluid leaks caused by improperly torqued bolts.

2011-2023 Dodge Charger

Resolution: Inspect all transmission bolts for proper torque and reseal as necessary. Follow updated torque specifications.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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