Chrysler 300 2011-present Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications
This page provides detailed torque specifications for all suspension bolts on the 2011-Present Chrysler 300, including front and rear suspension components. Ensure proper torque application for safety and performance.
Important Information
Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application
Safety First
- Always verify torque specifications with your vehicle's factory service manual
- Use properly calibrated torque wrenches
- Replace all torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts - they are single-use only
- When in doubt, consult a professional mechanic
Quick Reference Guide
Quick Reference Guide
Common Torque Patterns
Star Pattern
Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns
Cross Pattern
Used for gaskets and cover plates
Sequential Pattern
Used for head bolts and other critical components
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-tightening
Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.
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.
Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.
Dirty Threads
Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.
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.
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.
Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.
Recommended Tools
Recommended Tools
Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)
Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)
Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)
Angle Gauge
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
Front Suspension
Torque specifications for the various components of the front suspension system, including struts, control arms, and steering components.
1 Strut/Shock Absorber Lower Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Strut/Shock Absorber Lower Mounting Bolts
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Strut/Shock Top Mount Nut
M10 x 1.25
Strut/Shock Top Mount Nut
M10 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
3 Upper Control Arm Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Upper Control Arm Bolts
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
4 Lower Control Arm Bushing Bolt (Frame Side)
M14 x 2.0
Lower Control Arm Bushing Bolt (Frame Side)
M14 x 2.0Important Notes
5 Lower Control Arm Bolt (Knuckle Side)
M14 x 1.5
Lower Control Arm Bolt (Knuckle Side)
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
6 Ball Joint Nut
M14 x 1.5
Ball Joint Nut
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
7 Tie Rod End Nut
M12 x 1.25
Tie Rod End Nut
M12 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
8 Steering Knuckle/Spindle Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Steering Knuckle/Spindle Bolts
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
9 Hub/Bearing Assembly Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Hub/Bearing Assembly Bolts
M12 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Sway Bar
Torque specifications for the sway bar and its related components.
1 Sway Bar Link Nut
M10 x 1.5
Sway Bar Link Nut
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Sway Bar Bracket Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Sway Bar Bracket Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Steering System
Torque specifications for the steering rack mounting bolts.
1 Steering Gear/Rack Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Steering Gear/Rack Bolts
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
Troubleshooting Guide
Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines
Common Issues
Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns
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
Diagnostic Steps
Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment
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
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
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
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 specification important for suspension bolts?
Why is using the correct torque specification important for suspension bolts?
Using the correct torque is crucial for safety and performance. Under-torquing can lead to bolts loosening, causing suspension components to shift or fail, resulting in poor handling, unusual noises, and potentially dangerous situations like loss of control. Over-torquing can damage bolts or the threaded holes, causing them to stretch, break or making them difficult to remove in the future.
Q2 What type of wrench should I use when tightening suspension bolts?
What type of wrench should I use when tightening suspension bolts?
A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening suspension bolts to the specified torque. Avoid using standard wrenches or impact guns, as they do not provide precise torque control. Using a torque wrench ensures consistent and reliable tightening, preventing both under-tightening and over-tightening.
Q3 Do I need to replace suspension bolts after removing them?
Do I need to replace suspension bolts after removing them?
It is generally recommended to replace 'torque-to-yield' (TTY) bolts, also sometimes called 'stretch' bolts, which are often found in suspension systems. These bolts are designed to stretch when torqued and should not be reused. If a bolt is not a TTY, it is important to inspect it for any damage or stretching. If there's any doubt, replace it. It's a small cost for safety.
Q4 Should I apply lubricant to suspension bolt threads before torquing?
Should I apply lubricant to suspension bolt threads before torquing?
Generally, no. Unless specified by the manufacturer, do not lubricate suspension bolt threads. Applying lubricant can alter the friction of the threads and potentially cause over-torquing. If bolts are specified to be lubricated, use only the lubricant that is specified.
Q5 What are common signs of suspension bolt issues or loose suspension?
What are common signs of suspension bolt issues or loose suspension?
Common signs include clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, poor or unstable handling, excessive body roll during cornering, uneven tire wear, and visible looseness or movement in suspension components.
Environmental Considerations
Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications
Temperature Effects
Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling
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
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
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 suspension bolts to the manufacturer's specifications, preventing over or under-tightening which can lead to component failure.
- Adjustable torque settings
- Click-type or digital readout
- Proper drive size for relevant bolt heads
Socket Set
A comprehensive socket set with various sizes (metric) is required to fit the different bolt and nut sizes found on the suspension components.
- Metric sizing
- Variety of sizes
- 6-point sockets preferred
Jack Stands
Sturdy jack stands are crucial for safely supporting the vehicle after it has been raised with a jack. They provide a stable base for working under the car.
- Weight capacity exceeding vehicle weight
- Adjustable height
- Wide base for stability
Vehicle Jack
A vehicle jack to lift the car so the suspension can be worked on.
- Weight capacity exceeding vehicle weight
- Stable lifting point
Service Procedures
Front Suspension Bolt Torque Procedure
This procedure outlines the steps to correctly torque the front suspension components on a 2011-Present Chrysler 300.
- Locate all relevant bolts (control arms, sway bar links, strut mounting bolts, etc.).
- Refer to the torque specification chart for your specific model and year to obtain correct torques.
- Using the torque wrench set to the first specified torque value, torque the first bolt.
- Repeat steps until all bolts are torqued to the first torque spec. Then if required, repeat this process until the final torque has been obtained.
- Double-check all bolts and nuts to ensure proper torque. (Always follow torque sequence where specified)
- Lower the car and test the suspension.
Rear Suspension Bolt Torque Procedure
This procedure outlines the steps to correctly torque the rear suspension components on a 2011-Present Chrysler 300.
- Locate all relevant bolts (control arms, sway bar links, shock absorber mounting bolts, etc.).
- Refer to the torque specification chart for your specific model and year to obtain correct torques.
- Using the torque wrench set to the first specified torque value, torque the first bolt.
- Repeat steps until all bolts are torqued to the first torque spec. Then if required, repeat this process until the final torque has been obtained.
- Double-check all bolts and nuts to ensure proper torque. (Always follow torque sequence where specified)
- Lower the car and test the suspension.
Technical Service Bulletins
Suspension Bolt Torque Update
2013-07-15This bulletin outlines a revised torque specification for the front lower control arm bolts on 2011-2013 Chrysler 300 models.
Resolution: Tighten front lower control arm bolts to 130 ft-lbs + 90 degrees.
Rear Suspension Control Arm Noise
2017-03-20This bulletin addresses a potential source of noise coming from the rear suspension. Specifically, the torque specifications for the rear control arms may need to be re-checked and tightened.
Resolution: Re-torque all rear control arm bolts to the current service manual specifications. Replace any excessively worn bushings.
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Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.