Chrysler Voyager 1996-2000 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Chrysler Voyager 1996-2000

Chrysler Voyager 1996-2000 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for all suspension bolts on the 1996-2000 Chrysler Voyager, including front and rear suspension 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

Strut Shock Mounting

Torque specifications for bolts securing the strut/shock absorber assembly to the vehicle's frame/body and/or the knuckle/control arm. Proper torque is crucial for maintaining the suspension's integrity and ensuring safe handling.

1

Upper Strut/Shock Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the top of the strut/shock to the vehicle's body or frame. Verify size and thread pitch to ensure accuracy.
2

Lower Strut/Shock Mounting Bolts to Knuckle/Control Arm

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts attach the lower portion of the strut or shock to the steering knuckle or control arm. *This will vary on year and model, consult specific diagrams to determine location.* Bolt size is estimated.

Control Arm

Torque specifications for bolts attaching the control arms to the vehicle's frame/subframe and/or steering knuckle. Correct torque is essential for proper suspension geometry and wheel alignment.

1

Control Arm Mounting Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the control arm to the frame/subframe and steering knuckle. Verify bolt size and thread pitch. Bolt size is estimated.

Steering Components

Torque specifications for components related to the steering system, including the ball joint and tie rod end. Proper torque here is critical for safe steering and wheel alignment.

1

Ball Joint Nut

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
This nut secures the ball joint to the steering knuckle or control arm. Verify size and thread pitch. Bolt size is estimated.
2

Tie Rod End Nut

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
This nut secures the tie rod end to the steering knuckle/arm. Verify size and thread pitch. Bolt size is estimated.
3

Steering Gear/Rack Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts attach the steering rack to the frame or subframe. Verify size and thread pitch. Bolt size is estimated.

Sway Bar Components

Torque specifications for the sway bar, its links, and mounting brackets. Proper torque ensures the sway bar functions correctly for reducing body roll.

1

Sway Bar Link Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
These nuts secure the sway bar links to the sway bar and the strut/control arm or frame. Verify size and thread pitch. Bolt size is estimated.
2

Sway Bar Mounting Bracket Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the sway bar mounting brackets to the frame/subframe. Verify size and thread pitch. Bolt size is estimated.
3

Stabilizer Bar Bushing Retainer Bracket Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the brackets that hold the sway bar bushings to the vehicle's frame. Verify size and thread pitch. Bolt size is estimated.

Wheel Bearing Hub

Torque specifications for the bolts securing the wheel hub/bearing assembly to the steering knuckle. Proper torque is critical for maintaining wheel alignment and preventing premature bearing wear.

1

Hub/Wheel Bearing Assembly Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Important Notes
These bolts attach the wheel hub/bearing assembly to the steering knuckle. Tighten in a star pattern. Verify size and thread pitch. Bolt size is estimated. Torque in two steps.

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 for suspension bolts?

Using the correct torque specifications is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity and safety of your vehicle's suspension. Under-torquing can lead to bolts loosening over time, causing components to shift, wear prematurely, or even fail, resulting in dangerous handling issues. Over-torquing can stretch or break bolts, damage threads, and weaken the connection, making it equally dangerous. Correct torque ensures a secure and reliable assembly.

Q2

What happens if I overtighten a suspension bolt?

Overtightening a suspension bolt can cause several problems. It can stretch the bolt beyond its yield point, making it weaker and more prone to failure. It can also damage the threads in the receiving component, making it difficult or impossible to properly tighten the bolt in the future. Additionally, overtightening can distort the mating surfaces of the parts being joined, affecting alignment and performance. In a real-world scenario, overtightening a lower control arm bolt could cause the arm to bind, leading to premature bushing wear or even cracking of the metal.

Q3

Can I reuse suspension bolts after removing them?

It is generally recommended to replace suspension bolts, especially those that are torque-to-yield (TTY) or have a locking mechanism, after removal. TTY bolts are designed to stretch during tightening, and reusing them can compromise their strength and clamping force. Other bolts may have corrosion or damage from the tightening process that makes them unreliable to reuse. If unsure, it’s best to replace them with new, properly rated bolts. For example, the strut mounting bolts on many vehicles are one-time use, and are not reusable

Q4

Should I use threadlocker on suspension bolts?

Whether or not to use threadlocker depends on the specific bolt and manufacturer recommendations. Some suspension bolts are designed to be used with threadlocker, while others are not. Check your vehicle's service manual to see if it is recommended. Generally, if the service manual calls for it, use a medium-strength (blue) threadlocker on bolts not using locking methods like lock washers or distortion threads to prevent loosening from vibrations during normal use, such as the bolts connecting the front sway bar to the frame.

Q5

Do I need special tools to torque suspension bolts?

Yes, you'll need a calibrated torque wrench to accurately tighten suspension bolts to their specified torque. Using an uncalibrated wrench or 'feeling it' is not sufficient and can lead to over or under tightening. A good quality torque wrench will allow you to apply the correct amount of force to the bolt and should be checked regularly for calibration. In some cases, you may also need an adapter or crowfoot to reach bolts in tight spaces. You will also need to reference the proper torque specs from a repair manual for this vehicle.

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 accurately tightening suspension bolts to the manufacturer's specifications, preventing over or under tightening.

  • Accurate torque measurement
  • Click mechanism for set torque
  • 1/2 inch drive for common suspension bolts
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive socket set with metric sizes will be required to fit the various bolts and nuts in the Chrysler Voyager suspension system.

  • Wide range of socket sizes
  • Durable construction
  • 6-point sockets for strong grip
Learn more

Wrench Set (Metric)

A set of metric wrenches, often needed to hold the nut in place when tightening the bolt.

  • Open end and box end options
  • Variety of sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Jack and Jack Stands

Essential safety equipment for lifting and supporting the vehicle to access the suspension.

  • Safe and stable lifting
  • Secure support of the vehicle
  • Adequate weight capacity
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Strut Assembly Removal and Installation

This procedure outlines the steps for removing and reinstalling the front strut assembly, where many suspension bolts are located.

  • Loosen lug nuts on front wheel.
  • Raise the vehicle and support it with jack stands.
  • Remove the front wheel.
  • Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut.
  • Remove the brake line bracket from the strut.
  • Remove the steering knuckle bolts from the strut assembly.
  • Remove the three top strut mount nuts (under hood).
  • Carefully remove the strut assembly.
  • Install the new strut assembly, ensuring the steering knuckle is properly seated.
  • Tighten the three top strut mount nuts to the specified torque.
  • Install the steering knuckle bolts to the specified torque.
  • Reinstall the brake line bracket.
  • Reconnect the sway bar link.
  • Reinstall the front wheel and lower the vehicle.
  • Torque the lug nuts to the specified torque.
View full procedure

Rear Shock Absorber Replacement

This procedure outlines the steps for replacing the rear shock absorbers, which involves accessing their mounting bolts.

  • Loosen lug nuts on rear wheel.
  • Raise the vehicle and support it with jack stands.
  • Remove the rear wheel.
  • Support the rear axle with a jack if necessary.
  • Remove the lower shock absorber bolt.
  • Remove the upper shock absorber mounting nut or bolts.
  • Remove the old shock absorber.
  • Install the new shock absorber.
  • Install the upper shock absorber mounting hardware.
  • Install the lower shock absorber bolt.
  • Torque all bolts to specified torque.
  • Remove jack supporting the axle if used.
  • Reinstall the rear wheel and lower the vehicle.
  • Torque the lug nuts to the specified torque.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Front Suspension Clunking Noise

1998-03-15

Reports of clunking noises from the front suspension may be due to loose strut mount nuts. Check for proper torque specification.

1996-2000

Resolution: Inspect strut mount nuts and ensure they are tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque. If noise persists, replace the strut mount.

Rear Suspension Squeak

1999-07-01

A squeaking noise coming from the rear suspension may be due to improper torque on the shock absorber mounting bolts or bushings.

1996-2000

Resolution: Check all rear shock mounting bolts and nuts to ensure proper torque specifications are met. Inspect bushings for wear or damage.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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