torque lug nuts

[mandys3240]

Hi, I bought a used 2012 Fun Finder 210 UDS and read in my manual that it is important to check torque lug nuts before every trip. The problem is, how strong should they be, there is no information in my manual. I called Cruiser, but they were not willing to help me!? Thanks for your help.

 

[LJAZ]

It should be somewhere around 100 lbs or so. To be absolutely sure you can contact the manufacturer of your axles.

 

[profdant139]

It depends

Some are at 110, some at 98. The dealer will know. A torque wrench is a handy thing to have, especially if you ever have to change a flat. It is a good thing to practice in the driveway -- make sure you have a socket that fits the nuts, and and probably an extension between the wrench handle and the socket.

 

[thefarside]

Just got off the phone with Dexter Axle and they said to contact the wheel maker (Tredit Tire) and they told me it depends on the stud dia.
7/16" 20 studs will be 70 - 80 Ft. Lb. torque
1/2" 20 studs will be 90- 120 Ft. Lb. torque.

BTW mine has 1/2"20 tpi studs.

 

[profdant139]

70??

I am speaking out of ignorance here, so take what I say with a large grain of salt -- but I have never heard of a lug nut taking only 70 foot-pounds of torque. I suppose it's possible. But I would think about getting more advice from a local mechanic or directly from Cruiser RV.

 

[thefarside]

No problem, have a look at this chart. Wheel studs are USF fine thread
so the Grade 8 - 7/16 dia. and 20 threads per inch is the torque value to look for.
Important: NEVER OVER TORQUE causes bolt stretch and weakening.

http://www.americanboltcorp.com/tech/techtorque.pdf
Hope this helps.

John

 

[thefarside]

After crawling under my TT last night I discovered my axles are made by Lippert not Dexter, (Dexter was the first axle mfg. on FF list, my bad) the label is on the axle tube. Make sure you know what you have before ordering parts etc.

 

[Dakota 1120]

Right or wrong, car/pickup/camper wheel lug nuts are torqued to 100# and never had a problem.

 

[thefarside]

Right, 100 ft.-lb torque is fine for 1/2" studs (90-120 ft.-lb), but would be over torqued for 7/16" studs (70-80 ft-lb).
Always consult your manual, don't guess.

John