Chrysler 200 2011-2014 3.6L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Chrysler 200 2011-2014

Chrysler 200 2011-2014 3.6L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

This page provides detailed torque specifications for various bolts used in the 3.6L engine of the 2011-2014 Chrysler 200. Includes torque values for cylinder head bolts, main bearing cap bolts, connecting rod bolts, and other critical fasteners.

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

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Torque Calculator

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Cylinder Head

Torque specifications for components directly related to the cylinder head, including bolts, rocker arms, and camshaft components. These specs are critical for maintaining proper cylinder sealing and valve train function.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Important Notes
Cylinder head bolts require a multi-step torque procedure, including an initial torque and then an angle turn. Refer to the OEM service manual for the specific angle torque value in degrees. Tighten bolts in a specific sequence (typically from the center outward).
2

Rocker Arm/Shaft Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (28 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the rocker arm shafts or individual rockers to the cylinder head. Ensure proper seating before tightening.
3

Camshaft Sprocket Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts attach the camshaft sprockets to the camshafts. Proper torque is crucial for accurate valve timing.
4

Camshaft Bearing Cap Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the camshaft bearing caps to the cylinder head. These caps retain the camshafts. Proper torque is critical for camshaft function and prevents damage. This value is estimated, confirm with OEM manual.
5

Spark Plugs

M14 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (28 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure spark plug threads are clean and lubricated (if applicable) before installation. Do not overtighten to avoid stripping the threads in the cylinder head.

Engine Block

Torque specifications for components attached directly to or within the engine block, including main bearings, connecting rods, and the oil pan. Correct torques in this section are critical for the structural integrity of the engine.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
100 ft-lbs (135 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the main bearing caps to the engine block. Use a specific torque sequence (usually from the center outward). Ensure the caps are seated properly before tightening.
2

Connecting Rod Nuts

M9 x 1.25
Important Notes
These nuts secure the connecting rod caps to the connecting rods. These require both a torque and then an angle torque. Confirm with the OEM service manual for correct angle.
3

Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the oil pan to the engine block. Use a criss-cross pattern to ensure even sealing and prevent leaks. Torque values are low, be careful not to over-torque.
4

Oil Drain Plug Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (28 N·m)
Important Notes
This bolt seals the oil pan drain hole. Do not over-tighten to avoid stripping threads. Use a new crush washer for proper sealing.
5

Knock Sensor Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the knock sensor to the engine block or cylinder head. Proper torque is critical for proper function. This value is estimated, confirm with OEM manual.
6

Oil Filter Housing Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the oil filter housing to the engine block. Ensure the o-ring is properly seated before installation.

Intake Exhaust

Torque specifications for components of the intake and exhaust systems. These specs ensure proper sealing and prevent vacuum and exhaust leaks.

1

Intake Manifold Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the intake manifold to the cylinder heads. Tighten in a specific sequence (typically from the center outward) to avoid leaks.
2

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts attach the throttle body to the intake manifold. Do not over-tighten, as this can damage the throttle body.
3

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the exhaust manifolds to the cylinder head. Use a specific torque sequence to prevent leaks.
4

Exhaust Manifold to Cylinder Head Stud

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
These nuts secure the exhaust manifolds to the cylinder head. Use a specific torque sequence to prevent leaks. This value is estimated, confirm with OEM manual.
5

Fuel Injector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the fuel injectors to the intake manifold or fuel rail. Ensure the O-rings are in good condition before installation.

Cooling System

Torque specifications for components of the cooling system. Correct torques in this area are essential for preventing coolant leaks and maintaining proper engine temperature.

1

Water Pump Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the water pump to the engine block. Use a new gasket and ensure the pump is seated correctly.
2

Water Pump Pulley Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the pulley to the water pump. Proper torque is essential for preventing vibrations and potential pulley damage.
3

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the thermostat housing to the engine. Use a new gasket and ensure correct thermostat placement.

Timing System

Torque specifications for components of the timing system. Proper torques are vital to maintain accurate engine timing and prevent severe engine damage.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
This bolt secures the timing chain tensioner. Ensure tensioner is positioned correctly before tightening.

Rotating Assembly

Torque specifications for components directly related to the engine's rotating assembly. This includes the flywheel, crankshaft pulley and harmonic balancer. Proper torques are crucial to maintaining proper engine balance and function.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
100 ft-lbs (135 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts attach the flywheel or flexplate to the crankshaft. Use a specific sequence for tightening to ensure even clamping force.
2

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
130 ft-lbs (176 N·m)
Important Notes
This bolt secures the crankshaft pulley/harmonic balancer. Do not re-use this bolt. Confirm torque value with OEM service manual.

Accessory Drive

Torque specifications for components of the accessory drive system. These include belt tensioners, idler pulleys, and other components driven by the engine's serpentine belt.

1

Serpentine/Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
This bolt secures the belt tensioner to the engine. Ensure tensioner is positioned correctly before tightening.
2

Drive Belt Idler Pulley Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
This bolt secures the idler pulley to the engine. Check pulley for free movement after installation.

Engine Mounts

Torque specifications for engine mounts, which secure the engine to the vehicle's frame. Proper torque is important for vibration control and stability.

1

Engine Mount Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the engine mounts to the vehicle's frame and engine block. Torque varies based on location and type of mount. This is an estimated value, always verify with the OEM manual.

Valve Train

Torque specifications for components related to the valve train system. These specs are critical for ensuring proper valve operation and preventing oil leaks in the valve cover area.

1

Valve Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the valve covers to the cylinder head. Tighten in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even sealing. Do not over-torque.
2

Ignition Coil Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the ignition coils to the valve covers or cylinder heads. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.

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 are proper torque specifications important for my 3.6L engine?

Using the correct torque is crucial to ensure proper clamping force, which prevents leaks, component damage, and potential engine failure. Overtightening can strip threads or deform parts, while undertightening can lead to looseness and leaks. For example, improperly torqued head bolts can result in blown head gaskets.

Q2

Do I need special tools for torquing bolts on my 3.6L engine?

Yes, a calibrated torque wrench is essential. Using a regular wrench and guessing is not accurate and can lead to improper torque. Additionally, you may need specific sockets (including Torx or E-Torx) and potentially extensions or universal joints to access some bolts on the 3.6L engine, such as those on the intake manifold or exhaust manifolds.

Q3

What happens if I reuse torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts?

TTY bolts, commonly used in areas like the cylinder head, are designed to stretch when torqued to their final specification. They should NEVER be reused. Reusing TTY bolts compromises their clamping force and increases the risk of engine failure. Always replace TTY bolts with new ones according to manufacturer guidelines. Examples include head bolts and connecting rod bolts.

Q4

How often should I check the torque on engine components?

Generally, you don't need to routinely check torque on properly installed components unless there's a suspected issue, like a new gasket installation. However, after major engine work, like replacing a cylinder head or intake manifold, you should check the torque of associated bolts as per service manual instructions after a short run-in period (e.g., 500-1000 miles) due to possible material settling.

Q5

Are all bolts on the 3.6L engine torqued the same?

No, different bolts on the 3.6L engine require different torque specifications. For example, cylinder head bolts require a much higher torque than intake manifold bolts. Always refer to the specific torque specification for each bolt in the service manual. Neglecting this difference will cause significant issues.

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 bolts to the specified torque. Different drive sizes may be needed based on the specific bolts.

  • Accurate torque measurement
  • Click-type or digital display
  • Variety of drive sizes (e.g., 3/8", 1/2")
Learn more

Socket Set

A comprehensive socket set, both standard and metric, is required to match the bolt head sizes.

  • Variety of sizes
  • 6-point or 12-point options
  • Impact-rated (if applicable)
Learn more

Extension Bars

Extension bars are needed to access bolts that are recessed or in hard to reach areas.

  • Variety of lengths
  • Sturdy construction
  • Secure attachment to sockets
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Torque Sequence

Proper torque and sequence is essential for securing the cylinder heads. The process involves multiple passes with increasing torque values and specific order.

  • Locate the correct tightening sequence diagram.
  • Apply specified initial torque to all bolts in the sequence.
  • Apply the final specified torque to all bolts in the sequence.
  • Check all bolts to ensure the torque is correct.
View full procedure

Intake Manifold Bolt Torque Sequence

Proper torque and sequence is essential for securing the intake manifold. The process involves multiple passes with increasing torque values and specific order.

  • Locate the correct tightening sequence diagram.
  • Apply specified initial torque to all bolts in the sequence.
  • Apply the final specified torque to all bolts in the sequence.
  • Check all bolts to ensure the torque is correct.
View full procedure

Rocker Arm Assembly Bolt Torque

Proper torque is essential for securing the rocker arm assembly.

  • Locate the correct torque value for the rocker arm bolts.
  • Apply the specified torque to all rocker arm bolts.
  • Check all bolts to ensure the torque is correct.
View full procedure

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Torque Sequence

Proper torque and sequence is critical for crankshaft main bearing cap installation.

  • Locate the correct tightening sequence diagram.
  • Apply specified initial torque to all bolts in the sequence.
  • Apply the final specified torque to all bolts in the sequence.
  • Check all bolts to ensure the torque is correct.
View full procedure

Connecting Rod Bolt Torque

Proper torque is critical for connecting rod bolt installation

  • Locate the correct torque value.
  • Apply specified torque to all connecting rod bolts.
  • Check all bolts to ensure the torque is correct.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Potential for Bolt Loosening in Specific Applications

2013-05-15

Some applications may be prone to bolt loosening due to vibration and heat cycles. Recommend re-torquing after a brief break-in period.

2011-2014 Chrysler 200 with 3.6L Engine

Resolution: Re-check torque of all engine bolts after 500-1000 miles to prevent loosening. Apply thread locker if re-torquing is insufficient.

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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