Acura TL 2009-2014 Fuel System Bolt Torque Specifications & Line Fittings
Acura TL 2009-2014

Acura TL 2009-2014 Fuel System Bolt Torque Specifications

This page provides detailed torque specifications for fuel system bolts on the 2009-2014 Acura TL, including fuel rail, injector, and fuel line connections. Ensure proper tightening to maintain fuel system integrity and prevent leaks.

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

Fuel Delivery System

Torque specifications for fuel delivery components.

1

Fuel Rail Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the fuel rail to the intake manifold or cylinder head. Ensure proper seating and alignment before tightening.
2

Fuel Injector Mounting Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures fuel injectors to the fuel rail. Be cautious not to overtighten, as this can damage the injector o-rings.
3

Fuel Injector Rail Bracket Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the injector rail to the manifold. Be cautious not to overtighten, as this can damage the injector o-rings. This may not be applicable to all models and configurations.
4

Fuel Pressure Regulator Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures fuel pressure regulator to the fuel rail or intake manifold. Proper torque is crucial for maintaining consistent fuel pressure. This value is an estimate based on similar components; verify with service manual.
5

Fuel Line Banjo Bolt

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures fuel lines to components using a banjo fitting. Always replace crush washers with new ones before installation. Verify size specific torque with the service manual, as it may vary.

Fuel Tank And Components

Torque specifications for fuel tank and associated components.

1

Fuel Pump Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the fuel pump assembly to the fuel tank. Proper torque ensures a secure mount and leak-free seal. Ensure the pump seal is properly seated.
2

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the fuel tank to the vehicle's undercarriage. Ensure tank straps are correctly positioned before tightening. This value is an estimate based on similar components; verify with service manual.
3

Fuel Filler Neck Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the fuel filler neck to the vehicle body. Ensure proper alignment with the fuel tank. This value is an estimate based on similar components; verify with service manual.
4

Fuel Filter Mounting Bolts/Nuts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the fuel filter to its mounting location. Ensure a proper seal at all connection points.

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

What happens if I overtighten a fuel system bolt?

Overtightening can damage the threads of the bolt or the component it's securing. This can lead to leaks, component failure, and difficulty removing the bolt later. For example, overtightening a fuel rail banjo bolt could crush the sealing washers, causing a fuel leak.

Q2

What happens if I undertighten a fuel system bolt?

Undertightening can lead to fuel leaks due to insufficient clamping force on sealing surfaces. This is dangerous and could lead to a fire hazard. Imagine the fuel pump access panel bolts being undertightened; fuel vapor could escape into the vehicle cabin.

Q3

Do I need to replace fuel system bolts every time I remove them?

While not always mandatory, it's highly recommended, especially for critical sealing bolts and banjo bolts which may deform. New bolts ensure proper clamping force and prevent future leaks. Using old bolts, especially those that have been previously overtightened, increases the risk of failure.

Q4

Should I use threadlocker on fuel system bolts?

Generally, no, unless specifically indicated by the Acura service manual. Threadlocker can interfere with proper torque and could cause damage during removal. Rely on the specified torque and potentially new bolts instead. The fuel pump assembly bolts, for example, don't typically require it.

Q5

Where can I find the specific torque specs for each fuel system component bolt?

Refer to the official Acura service manual for your 2009-2014 Acura TL. These manuals contain the precise torque specifications for every bolt within the fuel system. You can also try a reputable online database, but cross reference it with the manual. Always double check the specification against your model and engine variant, as there may be minor changes.

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 fuel system bolts to specified values, preventing leaks and damage.

  • Click-type mechanism
  • Inch-pound or Newton-meter scale
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets, including various sizes, is needed to fit the different bolt heads used in the fuel system.

  • Metric sockets
  • 6-point sockets recommended
Learn more

Extension Bars

Extension bars can help reach difficult to access bolts within the fuel system.

  • Various lengths
  • Swivel extensions recommended
Learn more
Service Procedures

Fuel Rail Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the steps to properly tighten the fuel rail bolts on a 2009-2014 Acura TL.

  • Locate the fuel rail bolts.
  • Refer to the vehicle's service manual for the specific torque value (Typically around 16 ft-lbs or 22 Nm).
  • Using the correct socket, tighten the bolts by hand until snug.
  • Use a calibrated torque wrench to tighten each bolt to the specified torque value in a cross pattern.
  • Double-check all bolts to ensure proper torque.
View full procedure

Fuel Line Fitting Torque Procedure

This procedure details tightening the fuel line fittings to the fuel rail and other fuel system components.

  • Locate the fuel line fitting.
  • Refer to the vehicle's service manual for the specific torque value (Typically around 13 ft-lbs or 18 Nm).
  • Use a proper flare nut wrench or line wrench to tighten the fitting.
  • Tighten the fitting by hand until snug.
  • Using the torque wrench and line wrench if needed, tighten the fitting to the specified torque.
  • Double-check the tightness.
View full procedure

Fuel Pump Module Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the steps to properly tighten the fuel pump module bolts on a 2009-2014 Acura TL.

  • Locate the fuel pump module bolts.
  • Refer to the vehicle's service manual for the specific torque value (Typically around 8 ft-lbs or 11 Nm).
  • Using the correct socket, tighten the bolts by hand until snug.
  • Use a calibrated torque wrench to tighten each bolt to the specified torque value in a cross pattern.
  • Double-check all bolts to ensure proper torque.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Fuel Leakage from Fuel Rail Fittings

2013-05-15

Some 2009-2011 Acura TL models may experience fuel leakage from the fuel rail fittings due to improper torque application at the factory.

2009-2011

Resolution: Verify fuel line fitting torque, re-torque to specified values, and replace sealing washers if necessary. Use thread sealant to prevent future leaks.

Fuel Pump Module Sealing Issues

2012-11-20

Certain 2010-2012 Acura TL vehicles may have issues with the fuel pump module sealing due to inadequate torque on the retaining bolts.

2010-2012

Resolution: Inspect fuel pump module sealing and re-torque bolts to spec. Replace damaged or worn seals. Ensure bolts are tightened evenly.

Revised Fuel Rail Bolt Torque Specification

2014-01-10

A revised torque specification for the fuel rail bolts has been released for all 2009-2014 Acura TL models. This revision aims to improve sealing and prevent fuel leaks.

2009-2014

Resolution: Use updated torque values provided in the latest service manual. Inspect previously torqued bolts, and if necessary, retorque to the updated specification.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

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