Acura Integra 1994-2001 Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
Detailed torque specifications for various body bolts on the 1994-2001 Acura Integra, covering different areas including fenders, doors, bumpers, and other exterior panels.
Important Information
Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application
Safety First
- Always verify torque specifications with your vehicle's factory service manual
- Use properly calibrated torque wrenches
- Replace all torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts - they are single-use only
- When in doubt, consult a professional mechanic
Quick Reference Guide
Quick Reference Guide
Common Torque Patterns
Star Pattern
Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns
Cross Pattern
Used for gaskets and cover plates
Sequential Pattern
Used for head bolts and other critical components
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-tightening
Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.
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.
Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.
Dirty Threads
Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.
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.
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.
Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.
Recommended Tools
Recommended Tools
Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)
Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)
Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)
Angle Gauge
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
Suspension and steering
Components that ensure proper suspension alignment, stability, and steering alignment.
1 Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5Torque Value
2 Control Arm Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Control Arm Bolts
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
3 Ball Joint Nut
M16 x 1.5
Ball Joint Nut
M16 x 1.5Torque Value
4 Tie Rod End Nut
M14 x 1.5
Tie Rod End Nut
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
5 Sway Bar Link Nut
M16 x 1.5
Sway Bar Link Nut
M16 x 1.5Torque Value
6 Steering Gear/Rack Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Steering Gear/Rack Bolts
M12 x 1.5Torque Value
Body and bumpers
Components that ensure proper body and bumper alignment and stability.
1 Front Bumper Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Front Bumper Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Rear Bumper Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Rear Bumper Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Doors and hinges
Components that ensure proper door alignment and stability.
1 Door Hinge Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Door Hinge Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
3 Hood Hinge Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Hood Hinge Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Troubleshooting Guide
Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines
Common Issues
Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns
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
Diagnostic Steps
Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment
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
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
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
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 is using the correct torque specification important for body bolts?
Why is using the correct torque specification important for body bolts?
Using the correct torque specification is crucial for several reasons. Overtightening can stretch or break bolts, crush mounting points, and potentially damage the body panels leading to misaligned panels, stress cracks or leaks. Undertightening can lead to components coming loose over time due to vibration, creating rattles, safety hazards, and potentially causing the panel to detach entirely.
Q2 What happens if I overtighten a body bolt?
What happens if I overtighten a body bolt?
Overtightening can permanently damage threads, requiring you to tap the hole for a larger bolt or needing specialized repairs. It can also crush the metal around the bolt hole or warp the panel, affecting its fit and appearance. In severe cases, it can even damage the mounting bracket. For example, overtightening a fender bolt can crack the paint and deform the fender.
Q3 What happens if I undertighten a body bolt?
What happens if I undertighten a body bolt?
Undertightening can allow the bolt to loosen with vehicle vibration over time, resulting in loose panels, rattles, or even part separation. This is very common with the hatch struts, where an undertightened bolt can lead to hatch misalignment and potential hinge issues. Components can also shift out of their intended alignment causing other stresses.
Q4 Should I use threadlocker on body bolts?
Should I use threadlocker on body bolts?
Generally, threadlocker is not required for most body bolts. However, if you encounter a bolt that consistently loosens or is exposed to significant vibration, a low-strength (typically blue) threadlocker can be used as a preventative measure. For example, a license plate mounting screw that is constantly coming loose could be a good candidate for loctite. Avoid using high strength threadlocker unless absolutely required or specifically recommended by the manufacturer, as this may make the bolt difficult to remove in the future.
Q5 How often should I check the torque on my body bolts?
How often should I check the torque on my body bolts?
Unless you have removed body panels recently, you don't need to constantly check the torque of your body bolts. However, it's a good practice to check body bolts after any repairs that involved their removal or whenever you notice any unusual rattles or misalignment. Additionally, if you frequently use your Integra for spirited driving or experience rough roads, it's beneficial to inspect them at least once per year or during your regular maintenance intervals. For example, after removing a bumper to change the headlights, it is smart to recheck these bolts after driving the car for a short amount of time.
Environmental Considerations
Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications
Temperature Effects
Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling
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
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
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 tool used to apply a specific amount of torque to fasteners.
- Click-type or beam-type available
- Various drive sizes (1/4", 3/8", 1/2") to accommodate different sockets
- Must be within calibration for accurate readings
Socket Set
A set of sockets in various sizes to match the heads of different bolts and nuts.
- Metric sizes required for Acura Integra
- Various depths (standard and deep well) for access
- 6-point sockets recommended to prevent bolt rounding
Extension Bars
Used to extend the reach of the torque wrench and socket in tight spaces.
- Available in various lengths
- Different drive sizes to match the torque wrench
- Can be used in combination to reach difficult areas
Universal Joint
Allows the socket to be used at an angle when a straight connection isn't possible.
- Various drive sizes to match the torque wrench
- Provides flexibility in tight spaces
- Can reduce the accuracy of torque readings if excessively angled - should be avoided when possible
Service Procedures
Body Bolt Torque Procedure (General)
This is a general procedure for tightening body bolts to spec. Always consult the service manual for specific bolt torque values.
- 1. Identify the specific bolt you are working with. Consult the service manual or torque specification sheet for correct torque value.
- 2. Select the correct size socket for the bolt head. Ensure the socket is fully engaged on the bolt head.
- 3. Attach the socket to the torque wrench using any necessary extensions or universal joints.
- 4. Set the torque wrench to the specified torque value.
- 5. Apply steady, even pressure to the torque wrench until it clicks (if using a click-type wrench) or the indicator reaches the set value (if using a beam-type wrench).
- 6. Do not over tighten. If you suspect over-tightening, loosen the bolt and tighten again to the correct specification.
- 7. If a torque sequence is specified for a component, follow it precisely (e.g., for fenders, doors, etc.).
- 8. If any bolt feels overly difficult to tighten or loosen, inspect it and its threads for damage, and replace if necessary.
Fender Bolt Torque Procedure
Procedure for tightening front and rear fender bolts. Pay attention to correct torque specifications and any specific tightening patterns if recommended.
- 1. Loosely install all fender bolts by hand first. Do not fully tighten any bolt yet.
- 2. Refer to the service manual for the correct torque specifications for fender bolts (typically 18-25 Nm or 13-18 lb-ft, confirm exact specs).
- 3. Starting with the upper bolts, torque each bolt to the specified value.
- 4. Work your way down to the lower bolts, tightening them all to spec.
- 5. If specified in the service manual, complete another round of tightening, ensuring no bolt is missed.
- 6. Visually inspect the fender and gaps for evenness.
- 7. Double check all bolts are tight and at proper torque before moving on.
Door Hinge Bolt Torque Procedure
Procedure for tightening door hinge bolts. Important to correctly torque for proper door alignment and function.
- 1. Support the door to prevent sagging or shifting, particularly if the bolts are loosened or the hinge is being replaced.
- 2. Loosely install all hinge bolts. Do not tighten any yet.
- 3. Refer to the service manual for the correct torque specifications for door hinge bolts (typically around 25-30 Nm or 18-22 lb-ft, confirm exact specs).
- 4. Tighten the top hinge bolts first to spec. Then tighten the bottom hinge bolts to spec.
- 5. Ensure consistent gap and flushness between the door and body. Make adjustments before the final tightening if needed.
- 6. Open and close the door to check the alignment and functionality. Recheck torque of bolts and adjust if necessary.
- 7. Ensure no bolts have been missed
Hood Hinge Bolt Torque Procedure
Procedure for tightening hood hinge bolts. Ensure proper hood alignment when doing this.
- 1. Support the hood securely, especially if the bolts are loosened or the hinge is being replaced.
- 2. Loosely install all hinge bolts. Do not tighten any yet.
- 3. Refer to the service manual for the correct torque specifications for hood hinge bolts (typically around 18-25 Nm or 13-18 lb-ft, confirm exact specs).
- 4. Torque the bolts to the specified value, going back and forth between the hinge bolts so as to tighten evenly.
- 5. Ensure the hood has proper alignment and closes and latches correctly. Readjust if needed.
- 6. Double check all bolts are tight and at proper torque before moving on
Technical Service Bulletins
Corrosion on Body Bolts
1998-04-15Technical bulletin regarding the increased incidence of corrosion on body bolts in regions with high salt exposure, especially around fender wells and door hinges.
Resolution: Inspect for rust and corrosion. Clean and re-apply anti-seize compound to affected bolts during reassembly. Replace damaged bolts and use new hardware if necessary. Use a rust inhibitor during cleaning.
Loose Body Fasteners Due to Vibration
2000-07-22Technical bulletin regarding loose body fasteners due to vibration and road conditions. Affects various locations such as door hinges, fender mounts, bumper mounts.
Resolution: Inspect all body fasteners regularly, especially after significant changes in conditions. Torque all fasteners to correct specification according to service manual. Use threadlocker compound on fasteners in high-vibration areas.
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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.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.