Dodge Ram 2500 1981-1993 Torque Specifications
Dodge Ram 2500 1981-1993

Dodge Ram 2500 1981-1993 Torque Specifications

Complete Dodge Ram 2500 1981-1993 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

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Body

Torque specifications for Body

Cab Mounting

1

Front Cab Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar heavy-duty trucks. Follow a crisscross torque sequence.
2

Rear Cab Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar heavy-duty trucks. Follow a crisscross torque sequence.

Bed Mounting

1

Bed Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards. Follow a star pattern for torque sequence.

Door Hinges

1

Door Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Value based on similar year Dodge RAM-1500 specifications.

Seat Belt Anchors

1

Seat Belt Anchor Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for seat belt anchor bolts in heavy-duty trucks.

Bumper Mounting

1

Front Bumper Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
60 ft-lbs (81 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards. Follow a crisscross torque sequence.
2

Rear Bumper Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
60 ft-lbs (81 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards. Follow a crisscross torque sequence.

Fender Mounting

1

Fender Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards.

Hood Hinges

1

Hood Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Value based on similar year Dodge RAM-1500 specifications.

Radiator Support

1

Radiator Support Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards.

Tailgate Hinges

1

Tailgate Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards.

Steering Column

1

Steering Column Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards.

Fuel Tank Straps

1

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards.

Mirror Mounting

1

Mirror Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards.

Grille Mounting

1

Grille Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
13 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar models and industry standards.

Wiper Motor

1

Wiper Motor Mounting Bolts

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

Headlight Mounting

1

Headlight Mounting Bolts

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

Brakes

Torque specifications for Brakes

Front Brakes

1

Caliper Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar Dodge models and industry standards for 12mm bolts.
2

Caliper Bracket Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on 14mm bolt size and similar Dodge models.
3

Brake Disc (Rotor) Retaining Screws

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8.5 ft-lbs (11.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6x1.0 screws in brake applications.
4

Brake Hose Banjo Bolt

M10 x 1.0
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on similar year Dodge RAM-2500 and industry standards for 10mm banjo bolts.

Rear Brakes

1

Brake Drum Retaining Screws

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8.5 ft-lbs (11.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6x1.0 screws in brake applications.
2

Rear Axle Flange Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on similar year Dodge RAM-2500 and industry standards for 12mm bolts.

Master Cylinder And Booster

1

Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22.5 ft-lbs (30.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on 10mm bolt size and similar Dodge models.
2

Brake Booster Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17.5 ft-lbs (23.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on 8mm bolt size and similar Dodge models.

Parking Brake

1

Parking Brake Cable Bracket Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17.5 ft-lbs (23.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on 8mm bolt size and similar Dodge models.

Wheels

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
110 ft-lbs (149 N·m)
Important Notes
Exact match for 1981-1993 Dodge RAM-2500.

Drivetrain

Torque specifications for Drivetrain

Flywheel And Clutch

1

Flywheel-to-Crankshaft Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge RAM-2500 with V8 engines. Use a crisscross torque sequence.
2

Pressure Plate-to-Flywheel Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards. Tighten in a star pattern.

Bellhousing And Transmission

1

Bellhousing-to-Engine Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge RAM-2500 with manual transmissions. Use a crisscross pattern.
2

Transmission-to-Transfer Case Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge RAM-2500 with NP transfer cases. Use a crisscross pattern.

Driveshaft And U Joints

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.
2

Driveshaft Center Support Bearing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards. Tighten evenly.

Differential And Axle

1

Pinion Flange Nut (Rear Differential)

M20 x 1.5
Torque Specification
225 ft-lbs (305 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge RAM-2500 with Dana 60 rear axles. Requires a new crush sleeve.
2

Axle Shaft Flange Bolts (Rear Differential)

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge RAM-2500 with Dana 60 rear axles. Use thread locker.

Mounts And Supports

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 RAM-2500 with manual transmissions. Tighten evenly.
2

Transfer Case Mount Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Dodge RAM-2500 with NP transfer cases. Tighten evenly.

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
Torque value is based on industry standards for M8 bolts in electrical components.
2

Voltage Regulator Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards for M6 bolts in electrical components.

Starting System

1

Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on similar models (Dodge RAM-1500, 1981-1993).

Battery System

1

Battery Terminal Clamp Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
7 ft-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards for battery terminal bolts.
2

Ground Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on M8 bolt standards.

Ignition System

1

Ignition Coil Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards for M6 bolts in electrical components.
2

Distributor Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on similar models (Dodge RAM-1500, 1981-1993).

Lighting System

1

Headlight Housing Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards for M6 bolts in electrical components.

Wipers And Washers

1

Wiper Motor Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on M8 bolt standards.

Hvac System

1

Blower Motor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards for M6 bolts in electrical components.

Instrumentation

1

Instrument Cluster Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards for M6 bolts in electrical components.

Cooling System

1

Radiator Fan Motor Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on M8 bolt standards.

Emissions Sensors

Torque specifications for Emissions_sensors

Oxygen Sensor

1

Oxygen Sensor Mounting Bolt

M18 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Use anti-seize compound on the threads to prevent seizing. Torque value is an industry standard for M18 x 1.5 threaded O2 sensors.

Exhaust Manifold

1

Exhaust Manifold-to-Head Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar Dodge RAM-2500 models and industry standards for M8 bolts in high-temperature applications.

Exhaust Pipe

1

Exhaust Pipe Flange Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an industry standard for M10 x 1.5 bolts in exhaust systems.

Catalytic Converter

1

Catalytic Converter Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar Dodge RAM-2500 models and industry standards for M12 bolts.

Egr System

1

EGR Valve Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar Dodge RAM-2500 models and industry standards for M6 bolts.
2

EGR Tube Nut (Connection to Exhaust Manifold)

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar Dodge RAM-2500 models and industry standards for M10 x 1.25 threads.

Air Injection Reactor

1

AIR Check Valve Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on industry standards for M6 bolts in emissions systems.

Thermostat Housing

1

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar Dodge RAM-2500 models and industry standards for M8 bolts.

Throttle Body

1

Throttle Body Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar Dodge RAM-2500 models and industry standards for M8 bolts.

Pcv System

1

PCV Valve Mounting (Valve Cover or Intake Manifold)

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on industry standards for M6 bolts.

Exhaust

Torque specifications for Exhaust

Exhaust Manifold

1

Exhaust Manifold to Cylinder Head Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for cast iron manifolds and similar Dodge models from the era.
2

Exhaust Manifold Heat Shield Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
13 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on common heat shield bolt torque for similar Dodge models.
3

Exhaust Manifold Studs (if applicable)

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar Dodge models from the era.

Exhaust Piping

1

Exhaust Pipe to Manifold Flange Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Dodge RAM-2500 specifications.
2

Catalytic Converter Flange Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for catalytic converter flange bolts.
3

Muffler to Exhaust Pipe Clamp Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
13 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for exhaust clamp bolts.

Exhaust Support

1

Muffler Hanger Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on common muffler hanger bolt torque for similar vehicles.
2

Tailpipe Hanger Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
13 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on common tailpipe hanger bolt torque for similar vehicles.
3

Exhaust System Support Bracket Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Dodge RAM-2500 specifications.

Emission Control

1

Oxygen Sensor (if equipped)

M18 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for oxygen sensor installation. Use anti-seize compound on threads.

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
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
2

Fuel Tank Sending Unit Lock Ring

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on industry standards for fuel tank lock rings.
3

Fuel Tank Filler Neck Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M6 bolts.
4

Fuel Tank Drain Plug

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on industry standards for M8 drain plugs.
5

Fuel Tank Shield Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
6

Fuel Tank Skid Plate Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M10 bolts.

Fuel Delivery

1

Fuel Pump Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on M6 bolt size and application.
2

Fuel Rail Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
3

Fuel Injector Hold-Down Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on industry standards for M5 bolts in fuel injector applications.
4

Fuel Pressure Regulator Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
11 ft-lbs (15 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on M6 bolt size and application.

Fuel Lines

1

Fuel Line Fittings (Banjo Bolts)

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on industry standards for banjo bolt fittings.
2

Fuel Tank Vent Line Clamp Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on M5 bolt size and application.

Electrical

1

Fuel Pump Relay Mounting Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on M5 bolt size and application.

Hvac

Torque specifications for Hvac

Blower Motor

1

Blower Motor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (10.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 bolts in HVAC applications.
2

Blower Wheel Retaining Nut

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (6.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for small retaining nuts in HVAC applications.

Hvac Housing

1

HVAC Housing-to-Firewall Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16.5 ft-lbs (22.4 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Dodge RAM-2500 specifications for M8 bolts.
2

HVAC Case Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on M6 bolt size and HVAC industry standards.

Heater Core

1

Heater Core Inlet/Outlet Tube Clamp Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Specification
3 ft-lbs (4.1 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for hose clamp bolts.
2

Heater Core Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on M6 bolt size and HVAC industry standards.

Ac System

1

Compressor Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27.1 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Dodge RAM-2500 specifications for M10 bolts.
2

Condenser Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
13.5 ft-lbs (18.3 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M8 bolts in A/C applications.
3

Expansion Valve Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on M6 bolt size and HVAC industry standards.
4

A/C Line Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
11 ft-lbs (14.9 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M8 flange bolts in A/C systems.
5

A/C High-Pressure Switch Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (6.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for small M5 bolts in A/C applications.

Ductwork

1

HVAC Ductwork Clamp Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Specification
2.5 ft-lbs (3.4 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for small M5 bolts in ductwork applications.

Control Panel

1

HVAC Control Panel Mounting Screws

M4 x 0.7
Torque Specification
1.5 ft-lbs (2 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for small M4 screws in plastic applications.

Belt Tensioner

1

A/C Compressor Belt Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37.3 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Dodge RAM-2500 specifications for M10 bolts.

Suspension

Torque specifications for Suspension

Steering Knuckle And Ball Joints

1

Upper Ball Joint to Steering Knuckle

1/2"-20 UNF
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (70-80 ft-lbs).
2

Lower Ball Joint to Control Arm

1/2"-20 UNF
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (70-80 ft-lbs).

Shock Absorbers

1

Shock Absorber Upper Mount

7/16"-20 UNF
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (25-30 ft-lbs).
2

Shock Absorber Lower Mount

1/2"-20 UNF
Torque Specification
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (45-55 ft-lbs).

Sway Bar

1

Front Sway Bar Link Nut

3/8"-24 UNF
Torque Specification
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (35-45 ft-lbs).
2

Front Sway Bar Bracket Bolts

7/16"-20 UNF
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (30-40 ft-lbs).

Control Arms

1

Upper Control Arm to Frame Bolts

9/16"-18 UNF
Torque Specification
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (90-110 ft-lbs).
2

Lower Control Arm to Frame Bolts

9/16"-18 UNF
Torque Specification
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (90-110 ft-lbs).

Leaf Springs

1

Leaf Spring U-Bolts

9/16"-18 UNF
Torque Specification
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (75-85 ft-lbs).
2

Leaf Spring Front Eye Bolt

5/8"-18 UNF
Torque Specification
130 ft-lbs (176 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (120-140 ft-lbs).
3

Leaf Spring Shackle Bolts

9/16"-18 UNF
Torque Specification
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (90-110 ft-lbs).

Track Bar

1

Track Bar Frame Mount Bolt

9/16"-18 UNF
Torque Specification
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (90-110 ft-lbs).
2

Track Bar Axle Mount Bolt

9/16"-18 UNF
Torque Specification
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (90-110 ft-lbs).

Wheels

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

1/2"-20 UNF
Torque Specification
110 ft-lbs (149 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the specified range (100-120 ft-lbs).

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 1981-1993 Dodge Ram-2500?

Tighten the lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench.

Q2

How do I know if I have over-tightened a bolt?

Signs of over-tightening include: stripped threads, bolt head deformation, and cracking around the bolt.

Q3

What tools do I need to properly torque bolts on my Dodge Ram-2500?

You will need a torque wrench, socket wrench, and a set of sockets that fit the bolt sizes.

Q4

Can I use a regular wrench instead of a torque wrench?

No, using a regular wrench can result in under or over-tightening the bolts, which can lead to damage.

Q5

How often should I check the torque on my bolts?

It IS recommended to check the torque on your bolts every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.

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, preventing damage and ensuring proper assembly. This range IS suitable for many applications on the Ram-2500.

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

Bolt Tightening Procedure for Dodge Ram-2500 1981-1993

This procedure outlines the proper tightening sequence and torque specifications for various bolts and fasteners on the Ram-2500.

  • Gather necessary tools and equipment, including a torque wrench and appropriate sockets.
  • Safety first: Ensure the vehicle IS properly supported and the ignition IS turned off.
  • Refer to the vehicle service manual or a reliable online source for specific torque values.
  • Tighten bolts and nuts to the specified torque using a smooth, even motion.
  • Double-check all tightened fasteners to ensure they are properly secured.
  • Additional notes: Always use new nuts and bolts when possible and apply a thread-locking compound to prevent loosening.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

TSB-02-03-91: Torque Specification Update for Cylinder Head Bolts

1991-03-02

This technical bulletin provides updated torque specifications for the cylinder head bolts on the 1981-1993 Dodge Ram-2500.

1981-1993 Ram-2500 with V8 engines

Resolution: Replace the existing cylinder head bolts with new bolts and tighten them to the revised torque specifications outlined in the bulletin.

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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.
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About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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