What is the torque spec for rear axle nut?
There is no universal torque specification for the rear axle nut. The exact value depends on the vehicle’s make, model, year, drivetrain, and axle design. Always consult the factory service manual or official sources for your exact specification.
To ensure safety and proper bearing preload, the torque value must be exact and may come with a specific torque sequence or locking method. If you don’t have the manual, obtain it from a dealer, a repair database, or the manufacturer using your vehicle’s VIN to confirm the proper figure.
How to locate the exact torque spec
Use these steps to pinpoint the precise torque value for your car and avoid guessing or improvising.
- Check the car’s owner's manual or the service manual for the rear axle nut torque specified for your year and model.
- Refer to the factory service manual (FSM) or workshop manual for the exact torque, any required locking features, and torque sequence.
- Consult official manufacturer support portals, technical bulletins, or dealership service information for model-specific specs.
- Use reputable repair databases (e.g., AllData, Mitchell1, Haynes/Chilton, or OEM documents) by selecting year, make, model, and drivetrain to retrieve the exact figure.
- If access to manuals is limited, contact a dealership or certified mechanic with your VIN to obtain the correct torque value for your configuration.
Having the precise specification helps ensure proper bearing preload and secure fastening; using an incorrect value can lead to bearing wear, nut loosening, or safety issues.
Typical ranges and notes (general guidance)
Because rear axle nut torque varies widely by vehicle, these ranges illustrate the kind of numbers you might see. Always verify the exact spec from official documentation for your specific car.
- Small to mid-size passenger cars: roughly 80–150 ft-lb
- Mid-size SUVs and light trucks: roughly 130–230 ft-lb
- Heavy-duty trucks or vehicles with larger hubs: roughly 200–350 ft-lb
Note on units: some manufacturers publish torque in Newton-meters (N·m) rather than foot-pounds (ft-lb). Convert using 1 ft-lb ≈ 1.356 N·m, and always follow the unit specified by the manual along with any required locking devices or torque sequences.
Important considerations and practical tips
Some rear axle nuts use a locking washer, threadlocker, or a specific torque sequence to ensure preload and security. Others are part of a sealed hub assembly. Always follow the OEM guidance to avoid damage or unsafe operation.
Summary: The key takeaway is that the torque spec for a rear axle nut is not universal. It is model- and configuration-specific and must be obtained from the vehicle’s official service documentation. Use the correct torque value with a calibrated torque wrench and follow any locking or sequencing requirements to ensure safety and reliability.
What are the torque specs for an axle nut?
On some wheel bearings sets and hub units, the axle nut secures the outer flange to a CV joint or stub axle. As the nut is tightened, it pulls the flange and axle together to set the preload of bearings. These axle nuts will have specifications as low as 130-foot pounds and as high as 300-foot pounds.
How tight should a rear axle nut be?
All you're trying to do is get this fingertight. A hub nut. Should be fingertight a castle nut should be finger tight on a hub.
How many ft/lb should you torque the wheel hub nut?
With hub or hub/drum only:
Using a torque wrench: A (1) Tighten the nut to 200 ft-lbs. Spin the wheel at least one full rotation. (2) Tighten the nut to 200 ft-lbs.
What is the torque on the rear axle nut on a 2017 Chevy 3500?
For the 2017 Chevy Express 3500 dually, the rear spindle nut torque is critical for bearing longevity. After installing the wheel bearings and adjusting preload, torque the spindle nut to approximately 260-290 ft-lbs.
