Dodge Durango 2004-2009 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Dodge Durango 2004-2009

Dodge Durango 2004-2009 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive torque specifications for the drivetrain components of the 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, including axle, driveshaft, and differential bolts.

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

Flywheel

The flywheel connects the engine to the transmission, ensuring smooth power transfer. Proper torque is critical to prevent misalignment or damage to the transmission input shaft.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened in a star pattern to evenly distribute torque.

Transmission

The transmission transfers power from the engine to the drivetrain. Proper torque on mounting bolts and oil pan ensures stability and prevents leaks.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure transmission is properly aligned before tightening bolts.
2

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a crisscross pattern to ensure even gasket compression.
3

Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Replace sealing washer to prevent leaks.

Drive Axles

Drive axles and CV joints transfer power from the transmission to the wheels. Proper torque ensures secure attachment and prevents drivetrain failure.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure axle is properly seated before tightening bolts.
2

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
185 ft-lbs (251 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a torque wrench with a high-capacity socket.

Propeller Shaft

The propeller shaft transfers power from the transmission to the differential. Proper torque ensures secure attachment and prevents drivetrain vibrations.

1

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a crisscross pattern for even torque distribution.

Differential

The differential distributes power to the drive wheels. Proper torque on cover bolts and drain/fill plugs ensures a leak-free seal and secure attachment.

1

Differential Drain/Fill Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Replace sealing washer to prevent leaks.
2

Differential Cover Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a crisscross pattern to ensure even gasket compression.
3

Differential Pinion Flange Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure pinion flange is properly aligned before tightening bolts.

Transfer Case

The transfer case distributes power to the front and rear axles in 4WD vehicles. Proper torque on mounting bolts and drain/fill plugs ensures secure attachment and prevents leaks.

1

Transfer Case Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure transfer case is properly aligned before tightening bolts.
2

Transfer Case Drain/Fill Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Replace sealing washer to prevent leaks.
3

Transfer Case Output Shaft Flange Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure output shaft flange is properly aligned before tightening bolts.
4

Transfer Case Input Shaft Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure input shaft is properly aligned before tightening bolts.

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 torque specification for the driveshaft bolts on a 2004-2009 Dodge Durango?

The driveshaft bolts on a 2004-2009 Dodge Durango should be torqued to 45-55 ft-lbs (61-75 Nm). Ensure the bolts are clean and free of debris before installation, and use a calibrated torque wrench for accuracy.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on drivetrain components?

It is recommended to check the torque on drivetrain components, such as driveshaft bolts and differential cover bolts, every 30,000 miles or after any significant drivetrain service. Regular checks help prevent loosening due to vibration and wear.

Q3

Can I reuse drivetrain bolts, or should they be replaced?

Drivetrain bolts, especially those subjected to high stress (e.g., driveshaft or differential bolts), should be inspected for wear, stretching, or damage. If in doubt, replace them with OEM-spec bolts to ensure proper torque and safety.

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 a fastener such as a nut or bolt.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets and accessories used for tightening or loosening bolts.

  • Various socket sizes
  • Compatible with torque wrench
Learn more
Service Procedures

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specification Application

Detailed steps to properly torque drivetrain bolts on a 2004-2009 Dodge Durango.

  • Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
  • Locate the drivetrain bolts that require torque application.
  • Set the torque wrench to the specified torque value for each bolt.
  • Attach the appropriate socket to the torque wrench and securely tighten the bolt.
  • Double-check the torque setting to ensure accuracy.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specification Update

2008-05-15

Updated torque specifications for drivetrain bolts to prevent loosening and ensure vehicle safety.

2004-2009 Dodge Durango

Resolution: Apply the updated torque specifications during service or repair procedures.

Drivetrain Bolt Inspection and Re-Torque

2007-11-20

Inspection and re-torque of drivetrain bolts to address reported issues of bolt loosening.

2004-2009 Dodge Durango

Resolution: Inspect all drivetrain bolts and re-torque them to the specified values.

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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