Acura TSX 2009-2014 3.5L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Acura TSX 2009-2014

Acura TSX 2009-2014 3.5L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive list of torque specifications for various bolts on the 3.5L engine in the 2009-2014 Acura TSX. Includes cylinder head, main bearing, rod bearing, and other critical fastener torques.

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

3.5l-engine Cylinder Head

Torque specifications for the cylinder head and related components.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Important Notes
Cylinder head bolts are torque-to-yield. Refer to the service manual for the specific angle torque and tightening sequence. Failure to follow the correct procedure may result in engine damage or head gasket failure.
2

Rocker Arm/Shaft Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure rocker arms are properly seated before tightening. Tighten in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure.
3

Camshaft Bearing Cap Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Refer to the service manual for the exact specification and sequence. Tighten in stages to prevent distortion.
4

Exhaust Manifold/Headers to Cylinder Head Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure and prevent exhaust leaks.
5

Spark Plugs

M14 x 1.25
Torque Value
13 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure spark plug threads are clean before installation. Do not over tighten as it can damage the cylinder head.

3.5l-engine Block

Torque specifications for engine block components.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Main bearing bolts are typically torque-to-yield. Refer to service manual for angle tightening and sequence. Failure to follow correct sequence can cause damage to engine.
2

Connecting Rod Nuts

M9 x 1.25
Important Notes
Connecting rod nuts are usually torque-to-yield. Refer to service manual for angle tightening and sequence. Failure to follow correct sequence can cause bearing damage.
3

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (44 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper timing before tightening the tensioner bolt.
4

Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure and prevent oil leaks. Do not over tighten.
5

Oil Drain Plug Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new crush washer every time. Do not over tighten.
6

Knock Sensor Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Refer to the service manual for the exact torque spec. Over tightening can damage the knock sensor.
7

Coolant Temperature Sensor Fitting

N/A
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Refer to service manual for exact spec. Use Teflon tape or sealant as needed.
8

Water Pump Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern. Ensure new gasket is used.
9

Serpentine/Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (44 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the tensioner is properly aligned before tightening.
10

Drive Belt Idler Pulley Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (44 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the idler pulley is correctly placed and aligned before tightening.

3.5l-engine Intake Manifold

Torque specifications for the intake manifold and related components.

1

Intake Manifold Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure and prevent vacuum leaks. Ensure the gasket is properly installed.
2

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the throttle body gasket is correctly installed. Tighten bolts evenly to prevent vacuum leaks.
3

EGR Valve Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure EGR valve gasket is correctly positioned and bolts are evenly torqued.
4

Fuel Rail Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly. Do not over tighten to avoid damaging the fuel rail or causing leaks.
5

Fuel Injector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure fuel injector o-rings are in good condition. Tighten bolts evenly to avoid fuel leaks.

3.5l-engine Valve Train

Torque specifications for the valve train components.

1

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
61 ft-lbs (83 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper cam timing before fully tightening. Use appropriate holding tool when tightening.
2

VTEC Solenoid Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Refer to the service manual for exact specification. Ensure a new gasket is used.
3

Variable Timing Control (VTC) Actuator Bolt/Nut

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Refer to the service manual for exact specification. Ensure proper cam timing before tightening. Use appropriate holding tool when tightening.

3.5l-engine Cooling

Torque specifications for cooling system components.

1

Water Pump Pulley Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly. Ensure that the pulley is correctly positioned.
2

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the thermostat gasket is correctly positioned and bolts are evenly torqued to avoid leaks.

3.5l-engine Misc

Torque specifications for misc engine components.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
87 ft-lbs (118 N·m)
Important Notes
Use new flywheel bolts. Tighten bolts in a star pattern.
2

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
130 ft-lbs (177 N·m)
Important Notes
Use appropriate tool to prevent crankshaft rotation during tightening. Apply oil to the threads.
3

Valve Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern. Ensure valve cover gasket is correctly seated before tightening.
4

Ignition Coil Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.7 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not over tighten.
5

Timing Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Refer to the service manual for the exact specification. Tighten bolts evenly to avoid distortion. Ensure a new gasket is used.

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 specifications important?

Using the correct torque specifications is crucial to ensure proper component clamping force. Over-tightening can cause bolt breakage, thread damage, or component distortion, leading to leaks or failures. Under-tightening can result in fasteners coming loose over time, also causing leaks, vibrations, and potentially catastrophic engine damage. For example, if the intake manifold bolts are undertightened, you'll likely experience a vacuum leak, leading to poor engine performance.

Q2

What type of torque wrench should I use?

A calibrated torque wrench is essential. For most engine work on the 3.5L, a 3/8" drive torque wrench covering the relevant range (typically between 5 ft-lbs and 100 ft-lbs) is suitable. For higher torque values like crankshaft pulley bolts, a 1/2" drive torque wrench might be needed. It's best to avoid using 'guess-work' torque, as this can cause problems. It's advisable to have your torque wrench calibrated regularly to ensure accuracy.

Q3

Do I need to replace bolts when working on my 3.5L engine?

While not always necessary, it's highly recommended to replace torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts. These bolts are designed to stretch upon tightening, and reusing them could lead to failure. Bolts like head bolts and some rod bolts are often TTY. Reusing bolts can compromise clamping force and increase the risk of engine problems down the line. Refer to your repair manual to determine which bolts are TTY.

Q4

What is the torque sequence, and why is it important?

Torque sequence refers to the specific order in which you tighten bolts. This sequence ensures even clamping force is applied across the component, preventing warping or distortion. For example, cylinder heads are typically torqued in a spiral or crisscross pattern, gradually increasing the torque in steps. Following the correct sequence is as important as achieving the proper torque.

Q5

What happens if I don't have access to the exact torque spec for a particular bolt on my 3.5L?

If you can't find the exact torque spec, it's best to avoid using generalized torque specifications. If available, using the torque specifications from a reliable repair manual or database specific to your vehicle and engine is highly recommended. If that is not an option, you should be careful and try to match by diameter to the closest spec as possible, and use anti-seize on bolts where specified. If you're unsure, consult a qualified mechanic. Guessing or using generic specs can easily lead to a damaged engine.

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 inch drive)

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurate torque application, typically in the 10-150 ft-lb range for this engine.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Audible click or digital readout
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8 inch drive)

A smaller torque wrench is needed for lower torque fasteners, typically in the 5-50 ft-lb range.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Audible click or digital readout
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets to fit all bolt heads on the engine. Ensure you have 10, 12, 14, and 17mm sockets.

  • Various socket sizes
  • 6-point or 12-point design
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Socket Extensions

Extensions of various lengths to reach recessed or difficult to access bolts.

  • Various lengths
  • Durable construction
  • Secure fitting
Learn more

Universal Joint

A universal joint adapter to allow access to bolts at angles

  • Durable construction
  • Smooth operation
  • Various sizes
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps and sequence for tightening the cylinder head bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads.
  • Lubricate the bolt threads lightly with clean engine oil.
  • Install all cylinder head bolts and hand-tighten in the proper sequence.
  • Using a torque wrench, torque all bolts to 29 ft-lbs.
  • Torque all bolts a second time to 61 ft-lbs.
  • Turn all bolts an additional 90 degrees.
  • Re-torque all bolts to 90 degrees again.
View full procedure

Intake Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps and sequence for tightening the intake manifold bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads.
  • Install all intake manifold bolts and hand-tighten in the proper sequence.
  • Using a torque wrench, torque all bolts to 16 ft-lbs.
  • Re-torque all bolts to 16 ft-lbs.
View full procedure

Oil Pan Bolt Tightening Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps and sequence for tightening the oil pan bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads.
  • Install all oil pan bolts and hand-tighten in the proper sequence.
  • Using a torque wrench, torque all bolts to 10 ft-lbs.
  • Re-torque all bolts to 10 ft-lbs.
View full procedure

Valve Cover Bolt Tightening Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps and sequence for tightening the valve cover bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads.
  • Install all valve cover bolts and hand-tighten in the proper sequence.
  • Using a torque wrench, torque all bolts to 9 ft-lbs.
  • Re-torque all bolts to 9 ft-lbs.
View full procedure

Exhaust Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

This procedure outlines the proper steps and sequence for tightening the exhaust manifold bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads.
  • Install all exhaust manifold bolts and hand-tighten in the proper sequence.
  • Using a torque wrench, torque all bolts to 23 ft-lbs.
  • Re-torque all bolts to 23 ft-lbs.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Engine Bolt Torque Revisions

2010-05-15

Revised torque specifications for various engine bolts due to reported loosening issues.

2009-2012

Resolution: Use the revised torque specifications provided in service bulletin documents. Always use a quality torque wrench.

Cylinder Head Bolt Stretch Procedure

2013-02-20

Clarification on the proper cylinder head bolt tightening method involving torque and angle measurements.

2009-2014

Resolution: Strictly follow the torque-plus-angle method for head bolts as outlined in the updated procedure.

Intake Manifold Gasket Seal Issues

2011-11-01

Reports of vacuum leaks due to improperly torqued intake manifold bolts or gasket issues.

2010-2011

Resolution: Replace the intake manifold gasket and ensure proper torque sequence and specifications are followed.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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