Chrysler 200 2011-2014 2.4L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Chrysler 200 2011-2014

Chrysler 200 2011-2014 2.4L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

This page provides detailed torque specifications for bolts used in the 2.4L engine of the 2011-2014 Chrysler 200. Includes cylinder head, main bearing caps, connecting rod caps, and other critical engine 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

Cylinder Head

Torque specifications for components related to the cylinder head, including bolts, rocker arms, and camshaft hardware.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Important Notes
Initial torque followed by two angle tightening steps is critical for proper head gasket sealing. Follow the manufacturer's specific tightening sequence.
2

Camshaft Bearing Cap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
7.5 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Low torque is critical to prevent distortion of bearing journals. Tighten evenly.
3

Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (28 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment and seating of rocker components before tightening.
4

Valve Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure on the gasket.
5

Ignition Coil Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure coils are properly seated and aligned before tightening.

Engine Block

Torque specifications for components attached to the engine block, including main bearings, connecting rods, and the oil pan.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
100 ft-lbs (135 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten in sequence according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Improper torque can damage bearings.
2

Connecting Rod Nuts

M9 x 1.25
Torque Value
48 ft-lbs (65 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten in a sequence according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Proper torque is essential for proper bearing crush.
3

Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure on the gasket and prevent oil leaks. Do not over tighten.
4

Oil Filter Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to avoid leaks. Ensure the oil filter housing O-ring is properly seated.
5

Knock Sensor Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure sensor is properly seated for accurate readings.

Timing System

Torque specifications for components related to the timing belt or chain, including tensioners, sprockets, and guides.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper tension is crucial for correct timing and belt/chain life.
2

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of sprockets and camshafts before tightening.
3

Timing Chain/Belt Guide Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Guides must be aligned properly to ensure proper timing chain or belt tracking.

Front End Accessories

Torque specifications for the front of the engine, including the crankshaft pulley, water pump, and drive belt tensioner.

1

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
130 ft-lbs (176 N·m)
Important Notes
Properly seat the pulley on the crankshaft before torquing.
2

Water Pump Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to prevent leaks. Ensure water pump gasket is correctly positioned.
3

Water Pump Pulley Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to avoid pulley runout.
4

Serpentine/Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure correct belt tension is set after installation.

Intake Exhaust

Torque specifications for components related to the intake and exhaust systems.

1

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to avoid vacuum leaks. Ensure throttle body gasket is properly seated.
2

Intake Manifold Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten in a crisscross pattern to prevent vacuum leaks. Ensure intake manifold gasket is properly seated.
3

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to avoid leaks. Ensure exhaust manifold gasket is correctly positioned.

Fuel System

Torque specifications for components related to the fuel system.

1

Fuel Injector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper seating of injectors before tightening. O-rings should be in good condition.

Cooling System

Torque specifications for components related to the engine's cooling system.

1

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8.75 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the thermostat gasket is properly seated to prevent leaks.
2

Coolant Temperature Sensor

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
11 ft-lbs (15 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper sealing to prevent coolant leaks. Do not over tighten.

Other

Torque specifications for miscellaneous engine components.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
100 ft-lbs (135 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a flywheel holding tool to prevent rotation during tightening.
2

Spark Plugs

M14 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (28 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not over-tighten. A new spark plug should crush washer to seal.
3

Oil Drain Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (28 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new crush washer each time to ensure a leak-proof seal.
4

Engine Coolant Drain Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper sealing to prevent coolant leaks.

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 it important to use the correct torque specifications?

Using the correct torque specifications ensures that bolts are tightened adequately without being over-tightened. Over-tightening can damage threads, strip bolts, or even crack engine components. Under-tightening can lead to leaks, vibration, and component failure. For example, over-tightening the cylinder head bolts on a 2.4L engine can warp the head, leading to coolant leaks, while under-tightening can lead to compression loss and engine damage.

Q2

What type of torque wrench should I use?

A click-type torque wrench is recommended for most engine work. These wrenches provide an audible and tactile 'click' when the set torque is reached, preventing over-tightening. A digital torque wrench offers more precise readings but is not always necessary. Avoid using beam-type torque wrenches for critical engine bolts, as their accuracy can be less reliable. For example, when tightening the crankshaft pulley bolt on the 2.4L, a click-type wrench is ideal for achieving the correct specification.

Q3

Should I lubricate the bolts before tightening them?

Whether or not to lubricate bolts depends on the manufacturer's specifications. Some bolts, especially those used in critical applications like cylinder head bolts, often require engine oil or thread lubricant, which affects the amount of torque applied. Always consult the service manual for the specific application. For the 2.4L engine, certain bolts, such as those for the intake manifold, might require dry torque, while others, like the connecting rod bolts, need lubrication.

Q4

What happens if I don't have the exact torque specifications?

Using incorrect torque specifications can cause serious damage. If you don't have access to the specific specifications for the 2.4L engine in your 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, it is best to consult a reputable service manual, online database, or a professional mechanic. Approximating torque is risky, especially with engine components. For example, using a generic torque for the main bearing caps could lead to bearing failure and catastrophic engine damage.

Q5

What is a torque-to-yield bolt and how does it differ?

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts are designed to stretch when tightened to a specific angle after an initial torque setting. These bolts should not be reused and must be replaced with new ones when disassembled. They provide more consistent clamping force, but attempting to reuse them could lead to bolt failure. The cylinder head bolts on the 2.4L engine in some model years are TTY bolts and must be replaced each time.

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 precision tool for applying specific torque to fasteners.

  • Various measurement ranges (ft-lbs/Nm)
  • Click or digital readout options
Learn more

Socket Set

A collection of sockets of different sizes for various bolt heads.

  • Metric and/or SAE sizes
  • Deep and standard sockets
Learn more

Extension Bars

Used to reach bolts in recessed areas.

  • Various lengths
  • 3/8" or 1/2" drive sizes
Learn more

Universal Joint

Allows access to bolts at an angle.

  • Various drive sizes
  • Swivels to multiple angles
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps to properly torque the cylinder head bolts on the 2.4L engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces.
  • Install the cylinder head and new bolts.
  • Torque bolts to first stage specified torque.
  • Torque bolts to second stage specified torque.
  • Final Torque bolts to specified angle (if required).
View full procedure

Connecting Rod Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps to properly torque the connecting rod bolts.

  • Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces.
  • Install connecting rod cap with new bolts.
  • Torque bolts to first stage specified torque.
  • Final Torque bolts to specified angle (if required).
View full procedure

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps to properly torque the main bearing cap bolts.

  • Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces.
  • Install main bearing caps with bolts.
  • Torque bolts to first stage specified torque.
  • Final Torque bolts to specified angle (if required).
View full procedure

Intake Manifold Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps to properly torque the intake manifold bolts.

  • Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces.
  • Install intake manifold and bolts.
  • Torque bolts to specified torque in proper sequence.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Revised Cylinder Head Bolt Torque Specification

2013-04-15

A service bulletin outlining a change in the recommended cylinder head bolt torque procedure due to issues with gasket sealing.

2011-2013 Chrysler 200 with 2.4L engine

Resolution: Follow the new torque procedure as outlined in the bulletin.

Oil Pan Bolt Torque Specification

2012-08-20

A service bulletin outlining correct torque specification to prevent leaks.

2011-2014 Chrysler 200 with 2.4L engine

Resolution: Use specified torque to ensure proper sealing and prevent leaks.

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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  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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