What is the torque for wheel nuts on a 2004 Chevy 3500?
The standard lug nut torque for a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 heavy-duty is 140 ft-lbs (190 N·m).
The following guide provides the official spec, how to apply it correctly, and notes on variations you might encounter with different wheels or fasteners.
Official torque specification
GM service data for the 2003–2006 Silverado 2500HD/3500HD lines lists lug nuts to 140 ft-lbs (190 N·m) for all wheels when using factory hardware. This applies to eight-lug wheels on these heavy‑duty trucks, assuming correct 9/16‑18 lug studs and factory-type lug nuts.
Notes about wheel and fastener variations
Torque can vary if you’re using aftermarket wheels, lug nuts with a different seat type, or non-standard studs. Always verify with the wheel manufacturer or GM service information for your exact wheel/fastener combination. If you have locking lug nuts, be sure you have the key and follow the same torque pattern.
How to apply the torque safely
To apply the torque correctly, follow these steps:
- Prepare: park on level ground, chock the wheels, inspect lug nuts, studs, and wheel for damage, and clean the mating surfaces.
- Loosen and snug: hand-tighten each lug nut in a star/criss-cross pattern to seat the wheel evenly.
- Torque to spec: using a calibrated torque wrench, tighten each lug nut in a star pattern to 140 ft-lbs (190 N·m).
- Recheck after seating: re-torque if necessary after the wheel has seated, and re-check again after 50–100 miles of driving.
- Maintenance: periodically inspect lug nuts for tightness and corrosion; re-torque as part of routine tire rotations or inspections.
Concluding: following this sequence helps ensure proper seating, safety, and long-term lug-nut integrity.
Summary
For a 2004 Chevy Silverado 3500, the standard lug-nut torque is 140 ft-lbs (190 N·m). Always verify against your specific wheel and fastener setup, and re-check after the first few hundred miles or after wheel removal. Proper torque, seating, and maintenance are essential for safe driving.
