Dodge Durango 1998-2003 46RE Transmission Transmission Torque Specifications & Bolt Torque Values
Dodge Durango 1998-2003

Dodge Durango 1998-2003 46RE Transmission Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for the 46RE transmission bolts in the 1998-2003 Dodge Durango. 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 frame or crossmember, ensuring proper alignment and preventing vibration.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the transmission during installation.

Oil Pan

Bolts and components that secure the transmission oil pan to the transmission case, ensuring a leak-free seal.

1

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (11.9 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the oil pan gasket is properly seated before tightening.

Fluid Plugs

Plugs that allow for draining and refilling transmission fluid, ensuring proper fluid levels and preventing leaks.

1

Transmission Drain Plug

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new crush washer to prevent leaks.
2

Transmission Fill Plug

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the fill plug is properly seated to prevent leaks.

Driveshaft

Bolts that connect the driveshaft to the transmission output shaft, ensuring a secure connection and preventing driveline vibration.

1

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the driveshaft is properly aligned before tightening.

Torque Converter

Bolts that secure the torque converter to the flexplate, ensuring proper balance and preventing transmission or engine damage.

1

Torque Converter Bolts

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

Valve Body

Bolts that secure the valve body to the transmission case, ensuring proper hydraulic operation and preventing fluid leaks.

1

Valve Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (11.9 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the valve body is properly aligned before tightening.

Bellhousing

Bolts that secure the transmission bellhousing to the engine block, ensuring proper alignment and preventing leaks.

1

Transmission Bellhousing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the bellhousing is properly aligned with the engine block.

Cooler Lines

Fittings that connect the transmission cooler lines to the transmission, ensuring proper fluid flow and cooling.

1

Transmission Cooler Line Fittings

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the fittings are properly seated to prevent leaks.

Output Shaft

Nut that secures the output shaft to the transmission, ensuring a secure connection and preventing driveline failure.

1

Output Shaft Nut

M20 x 1.5
Torque Value
180 ft-lbs (244 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the output shaft is properly seated 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 are the torque specifications for the 46RE transmission pan bolts?

The torque specification for the 46RE transmission pan bolts is 12-15 ft-lbs (16-20 Nm). Over-tightening can strip the threads or warp the pan, leading to leaks.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on my 46RE transmission bolts?

It is recommended to check the torque on critical bolts (e.g., pan bolts, bellhousing bolts) during routine maintenance, such as fluid changes or every 30,000 miles. Always re-torque after any transmission service.

Q3

Can I reuse the transmission pan gasket after removing the pan?

It is not recommended to reuse the transmission pan gasket. Always replace it with a new one to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts evenly and avoid over-tightening.

Q4

What happens if I don't follow the correct torque specifications?

Incorrect torque can lead to stripped threads, warped components, or leaks. For example, over-tightening the pan bolts can damage the transmission case, while under-tightening can cause fluid leaks and contamination.

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

Torque Wrench

A precision tool used to apply a specific torque to bolts and nuts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibrated for accuracy
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets in various sizes to fit transmission bolts.

  • Includes both metric and standard sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Thread Locker

A chemical compound used to secure bolts and prevent loosening.

  • High-temperature resistance
  • Prevents vibration-induced loosening
Learn more
Service Procedures

46RE Transmission Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed steps to properly torque the bolts on a 46RE transmission for a 1998-2003 Dodge Durango.

  • Ensure the transmission is properly aligned and seated before tightening bolts.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the bellhousing bolts to 35 ft-lbs.
  • Torque the transmission pan bolts to 12 ft-lbs in a crisscross pattern.
  • Tighten the torque converter bolts to 35 ft-lbs.
  • Apply thread locker to critical bolts as specified in the service manual.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

46RE Transmission Bolt Loosening Issue

2001-05-15

Reports of transmission bolts loosening over time due to vibration.

1998-2003 Dodge Durango

Resolution: Apply thread locker to all critical transmission bolts and re-torque to specified values.

46RE Transmission Fluid Leak from Pan

2002-08-22

Fluid leaks reported from the transmission pan due to improper bolt torque.

1998-2003 Dodge Durango

Resolution: Re-torque the transmission pan bolts to 12 ft-lbs in a crisscross pattern and inspect the gasket for damage.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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