Was reading an old service manual and the torque spec for a 1990s lug nut blew my mind

It was only 80 ft-lbs for a full-size pickup! I found it in a Chilton guide from 1994. Makes you realize how much more we're cranking down on everything now. What's the lowest spec you've ever seen on a modern vehicle?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_linda22h ago

Actually that old spec makes total sense... those trucks had way more lug nuts and the wheels were a lot heavier steel. Modern aluminum wheels with fewer lugs need more clamp force to stay put. Seen some tiny cars still only call for like 75 ft-lbs on their little bolts. The big numbers are mostly for show trucks and overkill aftermarket stuff.

kevin_west19h agoMost Upvoted

Totally, my old F-150 manual says 120 ft-lbs and people act like that's crazy low now.

rubysingh16h ago

Remember when people used to just crank lugs down with the tire iron until they felt like stopping? My uncle swore by the "good and tight" method on his farm truck. Never lost a wheel, but he also sheared off a few studs over the years. Makes you wonder how many wheels are just held on by hope and rust right now.