Acura TSX 2004-2008 Fuel System Bolt Torque Specifications & Line Fittings
Acura TSX 2004-2008

Acura TSX 2004-2008 Fuel System Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive guide to fuel system bolt torque specifications for the 2004-2008 Acura TSX, including fuel pump, fuel rail, and injector bolts.

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 System Fuel Rail

Torque specifications for the fuel rail and related components.

1

Fuel Rail Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size. Torque to specification to ensure proper fuel rail sealing and pressure. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.
2

Fuel Injector Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly to prevent leaks at injector seals. Do not overtighten. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.
3

Fuel Pressure Regulator Mounting Bolts/Screws

M6 x 1.0 (estimated)
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size. Ensure proper sealing for correct fuel pressure regulation. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.

Fuel System Fuel Pump

Torque specifications for the fuel pump and related components.

1

Fuel Pump Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size. Tighten evenly to prevent leaks and secure fuel pump. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.
2

Fuel Tank Sending Unit Bolts/Screws

M6 x 1.0 (estimated)
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size. Ensure a proper seal to prevent leaks around the sending unit. Do not over-tighten these screws. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.

Fuel System Fuel Lines

Torque specifications for fuel line connections.

1

Fuel Line Banjo Bolts

M12 x 1.5 (estimated)
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size and torque value. Use new crush washers. Always use a calibrated torque wrench. Torque value within the range, adjust depending on banjo bolt size.

Fuel System Fuel Tank

Torque specifications for the fuel tank and filler components.

1

Fuel Filler Neck Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0 (estimated)
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size. Proper torque ensures a leak-free seal between filler neck and body. Do not overtighten. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.
2

Fuel Tank Access Panel Screws

M6 x 1.0 (estimated)
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt size. Ensure the access panel is securely attached to the fuel tank. Do not overtighten. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.

Fuel System Fuel Filter

Torque specifications for the fuel filter assembly.

1

Fuel Filter Mounting Bolt/Nut

M10 x 1.5 (estimated)
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated bolt/nut size. Tighten to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. Always use a calibrated torque wrench.

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 fuel system bolts?

Overtightening can damage the threads of the bolt or the component it's securing, leading to leaks or component failure. For example, overtightening a fuel injector bolt can crush the injector seal, resulting in fuel leaks. This can cause fuel smells, poor engine performance, and even potential fire hazards.

Q2

Can I reuse fuel system bolts?

Generally, it's best practice to replace fuel system bolts, especially those with crush washers or sealing washers, each time they are removed. These washers deform on tightening to create a seal, and reusing them may not guarantee a leak-free seal. For instance, the banjo bolt on the fuel filter should always be replaced with a new crush washer.

Q3

Do I need to use a specific type of thread sealant or lubricant on fuel system bolts?

While some bolts may not require any sealant or lubricant, others might. For example, if there is a specification, then use a fuel-resistant thread sealant to prevent leaks. Always refer to the service manual. Never use a general purpose thread lubricant on fuel fittings, as this could react with the fuel and cause issues.

Q4

What is the best way to ensure accurate torque readings?

Use a quality torque wrench that is within its calibration period. Always tighten fasteners in a gradual manner, following any specified tightening sequence (e.g., star pattern). For example, if a fuel rail has multiple mounting bolts, tighten them in a star pattern and in stages, incrementally increasing the torque to the final specification.

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 (1/4" Drive)

A calibrated torque wrench capable of measuring in inch-pounds (in-lbs) or Newton-meters (Nm) for accurate fastener tightening.

  • Accuracy within +/- 3%
  • Range of 0-100 in-lbs or 0-12 Nm
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

A calibrated torque wrench capable of measuring in foot-pounds (ft-lbs) or Newton-meters (Nm) for higher torque fasteners.

  • Accuracy within +/- 3%
  • Range of 5-80 ft-lbs or 7-110 Nm
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A set of metric sockets, including shallow and deep well options, necessary to access various fuel system bolts.

  • Standard sizes from 8mm to 17mm
  • Both 1/4" and 3/8" drive sizes
Learn more

Crowfoot Wrench Set (Metric)

A set of metric crowfoot wrenches to access hard-to-reach fasteners such as fuel line connections.

  • Standard sizes from 10mm to 17mm
  • 3/8" drive
Learn more
Service Procedures

Fuel Rail Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for torquing the bolts securing the fuel rail to the intake manifold on a 2004-2008 Acura TSX.

  • Locate the fuel rail bolts (typically two or three).
  • Using the appropriate metric socket, initially tighten the bolts by hand.
  • Using a 1/4" drive torque wrench, torque each fuel rail bolt to 8.7 ft-lbs (11.8 Nm) in a cross pattern.
  • Confirm the torque with a second pass.
View full procedure

Fuel Line Connection Torque Specification

Procedure for torquing the fuel line connections on a 2004-2008 Acura TSX.

  • Locate the fuel line connections on the fuel rail.
  • Using the appropriate metric crowfoot wrench, initially tighten the connection by hand.
  • Using a 3/8" drive torque wrench, torque the fuel line connections to 18 ft-lbs (24 Nm).
  • Confirm the torque with a second pass.
View full procedure

Fuel Injector Retaining Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for torquing the fuel injector retaining bolts on a 2004-2008 Acura TSX.

  • Locate the fuel injector retaining bolts.
  • Using the appropriate metric socket, initially tighten the bolts by hand.
  • Using a 1/4" drive torque wrench, torque each retaining bolt to 8.7 ft-lbs (11.8 Nm).
  • Confirm the torque with a second pass.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Fuel Line Leakage After Service

2006-04-15

Some 2004-2006 TSX models may exhibit fuel leaks after fuel system service due to improper torque application.

2004-2006

Resolution: Always use a calibrated torque wrench and tighten all fuel system fasteners to the specified torque. Replace any seals if damaged or reused. Confirm no leaks are present after service.

Fuel Rail Bolt Stripping

2008-09-22

A small number of 2004-2008 TSX models have reported stripped fuel rail bolt threads when using improper torque values.

2004-2008

Resolution: Use a 1/4" drive torque wrench. Torque fuel rail bolts to 8.7 ft-lbs (11.8 Nm). Do not over tighten. If the threads are damaged, it is necessary to repair or replace the intake manifold.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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