Acura CL 2001-2003 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Acura CL 2001-2003

Acura CL 2001-2003 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive list of torque specifications for drivetrain components on the 2001-2003 Acura CL, including transmission, axles, and related hardware.

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

Engine Flywheel

Torque specifications for the flywheel and related components.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
94 ft-lbs (127 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten flywheel bolts in a star pattern. Use new bolts if specified by the manufacturer.

Engine Camshaft

Torque specifications for the camshaft and related components.

1

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
56 ft-lbs (76 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure camshaft timing is correct before torquing. Use a holding tool to prevent camshaft from rotating.

Engine Crankshaft

Torque specifications for the crankshaft and related components.

1

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
181 ft-lbs (245 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a crankshaft holding tool to prevent rotation. Ensure proper seating of the harmonic balancer.

Engine Starter

Torque specifications for the starter motor.

1

Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper starter engagement with the flywheel after mounting.

Engine Oil System

Torque specifications for the engine oil filter housing.

1

Oil Filter Housing Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the oil filter housing and a new gasket is used.

Transmission

Torque specifications for transmission components.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
47 ft-lbs (64 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure transmission is properly aligned before torquing.
2

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten oil pan bolts in a criss-cross pattern. Ensure new gasket is installed.
3

Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs

M18 x 1.5
Torque Value
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new crush washer on each plug. Do not over tighten.
4

Transmission Output Shaft Seal Retainer Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper seal seating and do not over tighten.

Clutch

Torque Specifications for Clutch components

1

Clutch Pressure Plate Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
19 ft-lbs (26 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque the pressure plate bolts in a star pattern to ensure even clamping force.
2

Clutch Release Cylinder Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the release cylinder before tightening.

Driveshaft

Torque specifications for driveshaft and propeller shaft components.

1

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
52 ft-lbs (70 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure driveshaft is properly aligned before tightening.
2

Driveshaft Center Support Bearing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the center bearing is properly aligned.

Drive Axles

Torque specifications for drive axle components.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
47 ft-lbs (64 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure axle is properly seated in flange before tightening.
2

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
181 ft-lbs (245 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new nut if specified. Ensure proper axle seating and use a torque wrench.

Differential

Torque specifications for differential components.

1

Differential Drain/Fill Plug

M18 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
Important Notes
Use new crush washer on each plug to ensure a proper seal.
2

Differential Housing/Case Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure even clamping force across the housing.

Transfer Case

Torque specifications for the transfer case.

1

Transfer Case Drain/Fill Plug

M18 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new crush washer on each plug.

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

Why are accurate torque specifications important for drivetrain bolts?

Accurate torque ensures proper clamping force, preventing loosening, component failure, and damage. Over-tightening can stretch or break bolts, while under-tightening can cause components to shift and wear prematurely. For example, an improperly torqued CV axle nut can cause the axle to move, leading to vibrations, wear, and potentially a complete axle failure.

Q2

What happens if I over-tighten a drivetrain bolt?

Over-tightening can stretch the bolt beyond its yield point, weakening it or causing it to break. It can also damage the threads in the component, making it difficult to remove or reuse. In the case of the transmission case bolts, over-tightening could crack the case or distort internal components, requiring expensive repairs. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.

Q3

What happens if I under-tighten a drivetrain bolt?

Under-tightening can allow components to shift or loosen during operation, leading to noise, vibration, and accelerated wear. For instance, an under-torqued differential mounting bolt could cause the differential to move, resulting in damage to the mounting points and potentially the entire drivetrain.

Q4

Should I use new bolts when working on the drivetrain?

It's generally recommended to use new bolts, especially for critical components like the flywheel, pressure plate, and axle nuts. These bolts are often torque-to-yield and should not be reused. Reusing these bolts can lead to unpredictable clamping force and potential failure. A common example is the flywheel bolts, which if reused could fail and cause severe engine damage.

Q5

Do I need to use threadlocker on drivetrain bolts?

The need for threadlocker varies depending on the application. Some drivetrain bolts, such as those on the drive shaft, may require a medium-strength threadlocker to prevent loosening due to vibration. Consult the service manual for your 2001-2003 Acura CL for specific guidance. Improper application can complicate future maintenance.

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 calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening bolts to the specified torque values. It prevents over-tightening and potential damage.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Click-type or digital readout
  • Appropriate drive size (3/8" or 1/2")
Learn more

Socket Set

A comprehensive socket set including various sizes, especially those commonly used for drivetrain components such as axle nuts, transmission bolts, and engine mount bolts.

  • Metric socket sizes
  • Deep and shallow sockets
  • Various drive sizes
Learn more

Extension Bars

Extension bars of various lengths help reach recessed or hard-to-access bolts within the drivetrain system.

  • 3/8" and 1/2" drive compatibility
  • Various lengths (3", 6", 10")
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Universal Joint

A universal joint allows for socket access at an angle, which can be crucial for bolts that are not aligned with the torque wrench.

  • Swiveling head
  • 3/8" or 1/2" drive size
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Impact Wrench

An impact wrench can help with the initial loosening and final tightening of bolts, but is not used for the precise torque application.

  • High torque output
  • Variable speed control
  • Battery powered or pneumatic
Learn more
Service Procedures

Axle Nut Torque Procedure

Properly torquing the axle nuts is critical for wheel bearing longevity and vehicle safety. Improper torque can lead to bearing failure and vibration.

  • Loosen the axle nut using an impact wrench.
  • Tighten the axle nut by hand until snug.
  • Use a torque wrench and apply 134 lb-ft (181 Nm) of torque.
  • Verify torque with the wrench and do not exceed.
View full procedure

Transmission Mount Bolt Torque Procedure

Correct torque specification for the transmission mount bolts is vital for reducing vibrations and maintaining a secure driveline.

  • Loosen the transmission mount bolts, only if necessary for replacement or access.
  • Install the transmission mount.
  • Hand-tighten the mounting bolts.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten all transmission mount bolts to 43 lb-ft (58 Nm).
  • Verify the proper torque.
View full procedure

Engine Mount Bolt Torque Procedure

Correct torque specification for the engine mount bolts is vital for reducing vibrations and maintaining a secure driveline. Specific torque values may vary depending on the mounting location.

  • Loosen the engine mount bolts, only if necessary for replacement or access.
  • Install the engine mount.
  • Hand-tighten the mounting bolts.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the engine mount bracket bolts to 43 lb-ft (58 Nm).
  • Tighten the engine mount to frame bolts to 55 lb-ft (74 Nm).
  • Verify the proper torque.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Excessive Vibration During Acceleration

2002-07-15

Some 2001-2003 Acura CL models may exhibit excessive vibration during acceleration due to incorrect torque on the engine or transmission mounts.

2001-2003 Acura CL

Resolution: Inspect and verify the torque specifications on the engine and transmission mount bolts. If loose, tighten to the factory recommended torque of 43 lb-ft (58 Nm) for transmission mount bolts and 43 lb-ft (58 Nm) for the engine mount bracket bolts and 55 lb-ft (74 Nm) for the engine mount to frame bolts. Replace damaged mounts if necessary.

Clicking Noise From Front Axle Area

2003-02-20

Some 2001-2003 Acura CL models may experience a clicking noise from the front axle area, which can be a result of an improperly torqued axle nut.

2001-2003 Acura CL

Resolution: Verify the axle nut torque on both the left and right side. Tighten the axle nut to the specified torque of 134 lb-ft (181 Nm). If the noise persists, inspect the CV joints for wear or damage.

About the Author

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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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