Recommended U-Bolt Torque
For Cold-Formed U-Bolts
For Cold-Formed U-Bolts which have been torqued to a set preload are
recommended to be re-torqued after a short time to take up the stretch
in the set of the material.
U-Bolts that have been well lubricated with an anti-seize compound will
have a torque range between plated and unplated values. All the above
values are general guidelines.
The OEM Service Manual on specific models
always takes precedence over values shown.
U-Bolts Must Be Tightened and Torqued Using A Cross Pattern Sequence
Snug U-Bolts in the seqence shown.
Tighten completely in the sequence shown.
Check U-Bolts for tightness after 100 miles
Click here to see U-Bolt Torque Guide
Why you should not reuse U-Bolts
Suspension U-Bolts are manufactured with a smooth rolled thread, while
the mating Hi-Nuts are manufactured with sharp cut threads.
When a U-Bolt is tightened to its recommended torque level, the U-Bolt
threads stretch as they mate with the Hi-Nuts. Although not always visible
to the naked eye, this damages the threads. Removing the Hi-Nuts from
the U-Bolt will cause a cross - threading that will not allow the U-bolt to
be adequately retorqued.
Common practice in most maintenance facilities is to use an impact
wrench to tighten U-Bolts. Consistent, accurate torque is next to
impossible to obtain with an impact wrench, and in most cases, an
over-torqued fastener is the result.
L&H recommends using a torque wrench when installing U-Bolts.