Acura Integra 1994-2001 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Acura Integra 1994-2001

Acura Integra 1994-2001 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for suspension bolts on the 1994-2001 Acura Integra. Includes front and rear suspension components.

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

Struts Shocks

This subsystem includes components related to the strut and shock absorber mounting, ensuring stability and damping of the suspension system.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment before torquing.
2

Lower Strut Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
47 ft-lbs (64 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar component standards.
3

Upper Strut Mount Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar component standards.

Control Arms

This subsystem includes components related to the control arms and ball joints, ensuring proper alignment and handling.

1

Control Arm Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment before torquing.
2

Ball Joint Nut

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the ball joint is seated properly before torquing.

Steering

This subsystem includes components related to the steering system, ensuring precise control and alignment.

1

Tie Rod End Nut

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment before torquing.
2

Steering Knuckle Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar component standards.

Sway Bar

This subsystem includes components related to the sway bar and its links, ensuring vehicle stability during cornering.

1

Sway Bar Link Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
43 ft-lbs (59 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the sway bar is properly aligned before torquing.

Drivetrain

This subsystem includes components related to the drivetrain, ensuring secure connection and wheel stability.

1

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
181 ft-lbs (245 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a torque wrench capable of high torque values.

Rear Suspension

This subsystem includes components related to the rear suspension, ensuring stability and proper wheel alignment.

1

Rear Trailing Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar component standards.

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 is using the correct torque specification important?

Using the correct torque specification ensures proper clamping force between components, preventing loosening, premature wear, and potential failure. Over-tightening can damage threads or deform components, while under-tightening can lead to parts coming loose, affecting vehicle handling and safety. For example, an under-torqued lower control arm bolt could cause excessive play and potentially detach while driving.

Q2

What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?

While a torque wrench is highly recommended for accurate and safe tightening, you might get away with using a standard wrench in an emergency but only if you know the feel of proper tightness through experience (e.g. if you are a professional mechanic and have torqued these bolts often). It's crucial to understand that this practice relies on your experience and not precise measurement. You must ensure to get these parts torqued to specification with a torque wrench as soon as possible by a professional to avoid any future issues. It's best to borrow or purchase a torque wrench for safety.

Q3

Should I use new bolts when working on my suspension?

It is highly recommended to replace bolts and nuts, especially those designated as 'torque-to-yield' or those that have been repeatedly tightened and loosened as they can stretch and deform over time. Using new bolts will help to ensure the proper clamping forces, thereby ensuring a safe suspension. It is also crucial to use bolts that meet or exceed OEM specifications (grade) of strength.

Q4

Do I need to re-torque suspension bolts after driving?

Yes, it is a good practice to re-torque suspension bolts after driving approximately 50-100 miles after initial installation. This is because the components may shift slightly after installation and some fasteners may loosen slightly. Re-torquing ensures that everything is properly secured to prevent any issues. Pay specific attention to lower control arm, shock absorber, and strut tower bolts during this process.

Q5

How can I tell if a bolt is over-torqued or damaged?

Signs of over-torquing include difficulty turning the bolt, a 'stretched' appearance of the threads, or damage to the bolt head or the surrounding component. You might also feel the bolt 'give' or break during tightening. Always stop when you reach the recommended torque setting. A damaged bolt may have rounded edges or stripped threads. If you think a bolt is damaged it should always be replaced with one that is to OEM spec.

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 (1/2" Drive)

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening suspension bolts to the correct specifications. 1/2" drive is common for larger suspension components.

  • Wide torque range (typically 20-150 ft-lbs or more)
  • Click-type mechanism for accurate readings
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

A calibrated torque wrench with 3/8" drive is useful for smaller suspension components where less torque is required.

  • Lower torque range (typically 5-80 ft-lbs)
  • Click-type mechanism for accurate readings
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets is needed to fit the various bolt and nut sizes used in the Integra's suspension system. Common sizes include 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, 19mm, and 22mm.

  • Variety of socket sizes
  • 6-point sockets for secure grip
Learn more

Extension Bars

Extension bars allow the torque wrench to reach recessed bolts.

  • Different lengths available
  • Provides access to hard-to-reach bolts
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Lower Control Arm Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps to tighten the front lower control arm bolts to specification. This usually involves 2 bolts: one at the chassis and one at the ball joint.

  • Locate the front lower control arm bolts.
  • Hand-tighten the bolts to ensure they are properly engaged.
  • Use the correct metric socket on a torque wrench.
  • Torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque setting (typically 47 ft-lbs for the chassis side bolt, 40 ft-lbs for the ball joint bolt).
  • Re-check torque after driving a short distance.
View full procedure

Rear Trailing Arm Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps to tighten the rear trailing arm bolts to specification. These usually involve multiple bolts: two to the chassis and one connecting to the knuckle.

  • Locate the rear trailing arm bolts.
  • Hand-tighten the bolts to ensure they are properly engaged.
  • Use the correct metric socket on a torque wrench.
  • Torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque setting (typically 65 ft-lbs for the chassis side bolts and 47 ft-lbs for the knuckle bolt).
  • Re-check torque after driving a short distance.
View full procedure

Front Strut Tower Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps to tighten the front strut tower bolts to specification. This usually involves multiple bolts.

  • Locate the front strut tower bolts.
  • Hand-tighten the bolts to ensure they are properly engaged.
  • Use the correct metric socket on a torque wrench.
  • Torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque setting (typically 33 ft-lbs).
  • Re-check torque after driving a short distance.
View full procedure

Rear Shock Absorber Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps to tighten the rear shock absorber bolts to specification.

  • Locate the rear shock absorber bolts.
  • Hand-tighten the bolts to ensure they are properly engaged.
  • Use the correct metric socket on a torque wrench.
  • Torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque setting (typically 29 ft-lbs for the upper mount bolts and 47 ft-lbs for the lower mount bolts).
  • Re-check torque after driving a short distance.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Suspension Bolt Retorque Recommendation

2000-03-15

A technical bulletin recommending re-torquing all suspension bolts after 500 miles of driving following suspension work, due to settling.

1994-2001

Resolution: Re-torque all suspension bolts to specified torque within 500 miles after any suspension service.

Front Lower Control Arm Bolt Inspection

1998-09-22

A technical bulletin regarding the inspection of the front lower control arm mounting bolts. Due to potential over torquing.

1994-1998

Resolution: Inspect the front lower control arm bolts for stretching or damage and replace if necessary.

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Alan Montanye

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