Topic: Torque spec for stainless steel bolts into aluminum, valve cover etc?

[killersoundz]

What torque number should I shoot for with stainless steel bolts into aluminum for my valve cover and all the other outside covers? I will be using anti seize.

[dave500]

dont toque them,just feel them up,you will strip threads using a torque wrench on 6mm bolts.

[killersoundz]

You sure? I have an inch pound. I can't go for like 6ft lbs or something?

[dave500]

im sure,,the cover isnt like a head gasket,it only has the crush the rubber gasket down.

[killersoundz]

im sure,,the cover isnt like a head gasket,it only has the crush the rubber gasket down.

Ok so just a little snug tighten then

I do typically prefer to use a torque wrench though. I sort of have monkey grip and always over tighten stuff

[Stev-o]

And are you using anti-sieze?

[killersoundz]

And are you using anti-sieze?

Yes

[matt mattison]

Use a 1/4 ratchet or a nut driver handle if you can. That way it's harder to over tighten the fastner. Just snug those down, they don't need to be too tight.

[lrutt]

I guess after 40 years of wrenching it's a feel thing. When TQing the 6mm screws, I grasp the ratchet by the head portion and tighten. Not reef on it, just tighten it up. I've never had a strip out or leak. Don't know for sure what I end up with but it sure works.

[bollingball]

I agree no torque wrench. Also I don't if it true but I read on here some where that you should use the copper not silver anti-sieze. May someone can confirm this.
Ken

[MCRider]

im sure,,the cover isnt like a head gasket,it only has the crush the rubber gasket down.

Ok so just a little snug tighten then

I do typically prefer to use a torque wrench though. I sort of have monkey grip and always over tighten stuff

Some of us have tightened enough screws to have the feel. According to this chart, 6mm pans are 5 to 8 ft lbs. So with your torques wrench just go to 6ft lbs (72 inch lbs). Maybe tighten one with the "choke up on the wrench" method, then check it with your torque wrench to get the feel for 6 ft lbs.

Also, there is some value to having them all equal, which you may do better with a torque wrench.

Then if there is a leak, you can cinch them up a tad more.

But in the end, you can do them with a regular wrench, choked up on the handle. Once you get the feel. AND, no sense in making them tighter than they need to be to seal the gasket.

[Stev-o]

I've also read to use the copper anti-seize. But unless you plan on keeping for 30 years, will it matter?

[MCRider]

I've also read to use the copper anti-seize. But unless you plan on keeping for 30 years, will it matter?

Really. We don't want to deprive the next generation of UJM restorers the thrill of drilling out corroded screws do we?

And it should be reminded the place that needs the anti seize is not so much the threads as under the head of the screw where it mashes down on the cover. THAT's where the seize takes place as that's where the environment that causes the chemical reaction exists. (moisture, road spray, etc.)  And putting even a tiny dab under the head of the screw makes for a very messy install.

[killersoundz]

I read NOT to use the copper kind? So I didn't.   And oh. I used it mostly on the threads

[MCRider]

I read NOT to use the copper kind? So I didn't.   And oh. I used it mostly on the threads

I used it, but to me the need is overblown on an engine that won't see alot of water. As long as you're owning it, you'll likely be breaking them free every other year or so for something and that's all you need to do. Its the humidity, road spray, and passage of time that sticks them.

Now if it were a boat, or a dirt bike, you see?

[bollingball]

I read NOT to use the copper kind? So I didn't.   And oh. I used it mostly on the threads

I used it, but to me the need is overblown on an engine that won't see alot of water. As long as you're owning it, you'll likely be breaking them free every other year or so for something and that's all you need to do. Its the humidity, road spray, and passage of time that sticks them.

Now if it were a boat, or a dirt bike, you see?

Good point and I agree to use it on the head. I just can not remember where to use the copper and why. I wish some one could explain. I have always used the silver.

Ken