Acura NSX 2016-present 9DCT Transmission Torque Specifications
Detailed torque specifications for all bolts associated with the 9-speed dual-clutch transmission (9DCT) in the 2016-present Acura NSX. Includes fastener sizes and tightening procedures.
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
Transmission mounting
Secures the transmission to the engine block and chassis, ensuring proper alignment and preventing damage to surrounding components.
1 Transmission Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Transmission Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Transmission crossmember
Supports the transmission and maintains its position, critical for smooth gear engagement and preventing damage to the transmission case.
1 Transmission Crossmember Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Transmission Crossmember Bolts
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Differential mounting
Secures the differential to the transmission case, ensuring proper gear engagement and preventing damage to surrounding components.
1 Differential Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.25
Differential Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Driveshaft
Secures the driveshaft to the transmission and differential, critical for smooth power delivery and preventing damage to surrounding components.
1 Driveshaft Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Driveshaft Bolts
M12 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Clutch pack
Secures the clutch pack to the transmission case, ensuring proper clutch engagement and disengagement.
1 Clutch Pack Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Clutch Pack Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Gearbox cover
Secures the gearbox cover to the transmission case, preventing oil leaks and ensuring proper gear engagement.
1 Gearbox Cover Bolts
M6 x 1
Gearbox Cover Bolts
M6 x 1Torque Value
Important Notes
Torque converter
Secures the torque converter to the transmission case, critical for smooth power delivery and preventing damage to surrounding components.
1 Torque Converter Bolts
M10 x 1.25
Torque Converter Bolts
M10 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Transmission pan
Secures the transmission pan to the transmission case, preventing oil leaks and ensuring proper transmission operation.
1 9DCT Transmission Pan Bolts
M8 x 1.25
9DCT Transmission Pan 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 it crucial to use the correct torque specifications for the 9DCT transmission bolts?
Why is it crucial to use the correct torque specifications for the 9DCT transmission bolts?
Using the incorrect torque can lead to several issues. Under-torquing can cause bolts to loosen during operation, leading to leaks, component damage, or even complete transmission failure. Over-torquing can stretch or break bolts, damage threads in the transmission case, and compromise the integrity of the seal, causing leaks and potential catastrophic failure. Proper torque ensures a secure, reliable, and long-lasting assembly.
Q2 Are all the bolt torque specs on the 9DCT the same?
Are all the bolt torque specs on the 9DCT the same?
No, they are not. Different bolts serve different purposes and are made of varying materials with different strength ratings. The torque specification is carefully calculated for each bolt to provide the correct clamping force without damage. Refer to the official Acura service manual for the exact torque specification for each bolt within the transmission system. For example, the bolts securing the transmission pan have a different torque value than the bolts securing the bellhousing.
Q3 What tools are necessary to torque the 9DCT transmission bolts properly?
What tools are necessary to torque the 9DCT transmission bolts properly?
A properly calibrated torque wrench is absolutely essential. For lower torque bolts, a 1/4 or 3/8-inch drive torque wrench is appropriate. For higher torque applications, a 1/2 inch drive wrench may be necessary. Always use sockets of the correct size and type (e.g., 6-point sockets are preferred to prevent rounding bolt heads). An extension may be needed to reach certain bolts, and a universal joint might be useful in tight areas. Follow the recommended torque sequence provided in the Acura service manual, and apply in multiple passes to achieve the final value.
Q4 What happens if I accidentally over-torque a bolt?
What happens if I accidentally over-torque a bolt?
If you suspect you have over-torqued a bolt, do not reuse it. It is highly recommended to replace the bolt immediately. Over-torquing can compromise the bolt's integrity and also damage the threads in the transmission case, potentially necessitating a more extensive and costly repair. The risk of thread damage and bolt failure increases significantly with over-torquing. For example, stripping the threads on a bellhousing bolt could require time-consuming and expensive repair techniques.
Q5 Do I need to replace the bolts when I perform transmission service?
Do I need to replace the bolts when I perform transmission service?
While not all bolts *must* be replaced each time, it's a good practice to replace certain types, especially those subject to significant stress or heat, and bolts that are torque-to-yield (TTY). TTY bolts are designed to stretch upon tightening and lose their clamping force after one use. For example, many bellhousing bolts might be TTY. Consult the Acura service manual for recommendations on specific bolts and their reusability.
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 (1/2" Drive)
A calibrated torque wrench capable of measuring torque values within the specified range for the 9DCT transmission bolts.
- Accurate torque measurement
- Click-type or digital readout
- Range covering specified Nm values
Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)
A calibrated torque wrench capable of measuring torque values within the specified range for the smaller bolts and fasteners on the 9DCT transmission.
- Accurate torque measurement
- Click-type or digital readout
- Range covering specified Nm values
Socket Set (Metric)
A comprehensive set of metric sockets, including sizes required for the 9DCT transmission bolts (likely 10mm, 12mm, 13mm, 14mm, 17mm).
- Various metric sizes
- 6-point or 12-point design
- Durable construction
Socket Extensions
Various length socket extensions to access recessed bolts and fasteners on the 9DCT transmission.
- Various lengths available
- Durable construction
- Secure socket connection
Universal Joint
A universal joint adapter to reach bolts at odd angles
- Allows for angled access
- Durable Construction
- Secure Connection
Service Procedures
9DCT Transmission Case Bolt Torque Procedure
Procedure for tightening the main transmission case bolts to their proper torque specification.
- Locate the specified transmission case bolts according to the service manual diagrams.
- Using the 1/2" drive torque wrench, tighten all case bolts in a star pattern, initially to approximately 50% of the specified torque value.
- Tighten all case bolts again in a star pattern to the full specified torque value (e.g., 44 Nm).
- Verify all bolts are at the specified torque using the calibrated torque wrench.
9DCT Transmission Oil Pan Bolt Torque Procedure
Procedure for tightening the transmission oil pan bolts to their proper torque specification.
- Locate the oil pan bolts according to the service manual diagrams.
- Using the 3/8" drive torque wrench, tighten all oil pan bolts in a star pattern, initially to approximately 50% of the specified torque value.
- Tighten all oil pan bolts again in a star pattern to the full specified torque value (e.g., 12 Nm).
- Verify all bolts are at the specified torque using the calibrated torque wrench.
9DCT Transmission Mounting Bolt Torque Procedure
Procedure for tightening the transmission mounting bolts to the proper torque specifications.
- Locate the transmission mounting bolts according to the service manual diagrams.
- Using the appropriate torque wrench, tighten the mounting bolts to the first stage torque value.
- Tighten the mounting bolts to the final torque value.
- Verify all bolts are at the specified torque using the calibrated torque wrench.
Technical Service Bulletins
Revised Torque Specification for 9DCT Transmission Case Bolts
2018-05-15A service bulletin was issued to revise the torque specification for the 9DCT transmission case bolts. The original specification had been found to be inadequate, leading to possible leaks.
Resolution: Retorque the transmission case bolts to the revised specification of 44 Nm. Refer to the service manual update for updated bolt tightening pattern.
Torque Specification Clarification for 9DCT Oil Pan Bolts
2020-11-02This bulletin clarifies the correct torque specification for the 9DCT oil pan bolts and emphasizes proper tightening pattern, in response to frequent reports of oil leaks.
Resolution: Confirm oil pan bolts are tightened to 12 Nm in a cross pattern sequence. Check for oil leaks post torque application.
9DCT Transmission Mount Bolt Inspection
2021-03-20This bulletin addresses reports of loose or under-torqued transmission mount bolts, resulting in unusual vibrations and potential mounting failure.
Resolution: Inspect transmission mount bolts for proper torque (refer to service manual). Replace any damaged bolts or mounts.
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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.