Tourqe spec. for 24.5 aluminum wheels

[Ericbsc]

Just replaced my tires with new Kumho 24.5's. Need to know if I have the lug tight enough. I am using a 3/4 air wrench with 950lb. My friend does big truck service said this will not get them tight. I removed a spare that he had replaced with his 1" drive. Thought I was going to need a torch. Does anybody know the proper spec?

[DrivingMissLazy]

First, invest in a torque wrench. Never let a tire shop use a impact wrench to final tighten your lugs. Proper torque is in the 450-550 ft. lbs. 900 is way too tight.
Richard

[kyle4501]

Every where I have read in the manuals & specifications has been in the 450 ft-lb range.

I would question this friend as to why he thinks they need to be so tight. Over tightening causes stresses the rims, hubs, & studs were not designed for. This can warp hubs, pull out/ break/ strip the studs, cause the rim center to crack out, mash the metal out from under the lug nuts, .......

Now if he is trying to generate more service business, that would be one explaination why.

It is so hard to find knowledgable service help when you know what is involved, almost impossible when you don't.

Most of the tire stores I've been in do not understand proper torque. They believe more is better! Heck, most don't care!

It is your coach, buy the manual (if you don't have one) and know the requirements for proper maintence. You will save your $ for more fun stuff.

Good luck!

kyle4501

[ChuckMC8]

 With a 3/4" drive torque wrench, I torque my Alcoas to 400 ft. lbs and my inner drive steel wheels to 450 ft. lbs.

[kyle4501]

Another thing, I always re-torque the wheel bolts after ~50 miles. Occasionally I'll find a few that have settled down & need tightening.