Dodge Ram 2500 2010-2018 68RFE Transmission Transmission Torque Specifications & Bolt Torque Values
Dodge Ram 2500 2010-2018

Dodge Ram 2500 2010-2018 68RFE Transmission Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for the 68RFE transmission bolts on the 2010-2018 Dodge RAM 2500. Includes bolt locations, 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 Housing

Bolts securing the transmission housing, ensuring structural integrity and preventing leaks. Located around the perimeter of the transmission casing.

1

Transmission Housing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M10 bolts in transmission applications.

Transmission Mounting

Bolts attaching the transmission to the vehicle frame, critical for stability and alignment. Located at the transmission mounting points.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
Derived from similar Dodge RAM-2500 models (2010-2018).

Torque Converter

Bolts securing the torque converter to the transmission, essential for proper power transfer. Located at the torque converter interface.

1

Torque Converter Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M8 bolts in torque converter applications.

Transmission Pan

Bolts holding the transmission pan, preventing fluid leaks and ensuring proper lubrication. Located around the pan perimeter.

1

Transmission Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on common M6 bolt torque values in similar applications.

Output Shaft

Bolts securing the output shaft to the transmission, critical for drivetrain integrity. Located at the output shaft flange.

1

Output Shaft Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Derived from similar Dodge RAM-2500 models (2010-2018).

Bell Housing

Bolts attaching the bell housing to the transmission, ensuring proper alignment and structural strength. Located at the bell housing interface.

1

Bell Housing Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M12 bolts in bell housing applications.

Control Valve

Bolts securing the control valve assembly, essential for proper hydraulic pressure regulation. Located within the transmission control valve block.

1

Control Valve Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 bolts in valve applications.

Shift Lever

Bolts attaching the shift lever to the transmission, critical for proper gear selection and operation. Located at the shift lever interface.

1

Shift Lever Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on common M8 bolt torque values in similar applications.

Transmission Filter

Bolts securing the transmission filter, ensuring proper fluid filtration and preventing leaks. Located at the filter mounting points.

1

Transmission Filter Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 bolts in filter applications.

Transmission Cooler

Bolts attaching the transmission cooler, essential for proper cooling and preventing overheating. Located at the cooler mounting points.

1

Transmission Cooler Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on common M8 bolt torque values in cooler applications.

Transmission Seal

Bolts securing the transmission seals, preventing fluid leaks and ensuring proper lubrication. Located around the seal interfaces.

1

Transmission Seal Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M10 bolts in seal applications.

Transmission Pump

Bolts attaching the transmission pump, critical for proper fluid circulation. Located at the pump mounting points.

1

Transmission Pump Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on common M8 bolt torque values in pump applications.

Transmission Sensor

Bolts securing the transmission sensors, essential for proper monitoring and operation. Located at the sensor mounting points.

1

Transmission Sensor Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 bolts in sensor applications.

Transmission Bracket

Bolts attaching the transmission brackets, ensuring structural stability and alignment. Located at the bracket mounting points.

1

Transmission Bracket Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Derived from similar Dodge RAM-2500 models (2010-2018).

Transmission Clutch

Bolts securing the transmission clutch, critical for proper engagement and disengagement. Located at the clutch interface.

1

Transmission Clutch Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M10 bolts in clutch applications.

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 68RFE transmission pan bolts?

The torque specification for the 68RFE transmission pan bolts is 12 ft-lbs (16 Nm). Ensure the pan surface and gasket are clean and properly aligned before tightening to avoid leaks.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on my 68RFE transmission bolts?

It is recommended to check the torque on critical bolts (e.g., pan bolts, valve body bolts) during routine maintenance, such as fluid changes or every 30,000 miles. Loose bolts can lead to leaks or improper transmission function.

Q3

Can over-tightening transmission bolts cause damage?

Yes, over-tightening can strip threads, warp components, or crack the transmission case. Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's specifications to avoid damage.

Q4

What is the torque specification for the 68RFE valve body bolts?

The torque specification for the 68RFE valve body bolts is 89 in-lbs (10 Nm). Proper torque ensures the valve body functions correctly and prevents internal leaks.

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 torque wrench for accurate bolt tightening.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Socket Set

A comprehensive socket set for various bolt sizes.

  • Includes metric and standard sizes
  • Impact-rated sockets
Learn more

Thread Locker

A thread-locking compound to secure bolts.

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

68RFE Transmission Pan Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps for properly torquing the transmission pan bolts.

  • Remove the transmission pan and clean the mating surfaces.
  • Apply a small amount of thread locker to the bolts.
  • Hand-tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to 12 ft-lbs in the same crisscross pattern.
View full procedure

68RFE Valve Body Bolt Torque Procedure

Steps for torquing the valve body bolts to specification.

  • Remove the valve body and inspect for damage.
  • Clean the mating surfaces and apply thread locker.
  • Hand-tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern.
  • Torque the bolts to 8 ft-lbs in a crisscross pattern.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

68RFE Transmission Bolt Torque Specification Update

2015-03-15

Updated torque specifications for 68RFE transmission bolts.

2010-2018 Dodge RAM 2500

Resolution: Refer to the updated service manual for revised torque values.

68RFE Transmission Pan Leak TSB

2017-08-22

Technical service bulletin addressing transmission pan leaks due to improper bolt torque.

2010-2018 Dodge RAM 2500

Resolution: Re-torque the transmission pan bolts to 12 ft-lbs using the specified procedure.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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