Volvo Volvo S70 1996-2000 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Volvo Volvo S70 1996-2000

Volvo Volvo S70 1996-2000 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for suspension bolts on the 1996-2000 Volvo S70, including front and rear suspension components.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Strut Shock Absorber

This subsystem includes bolts that secure the strut or shock absorber to the vehicle's chassis and suspension components. Proper torque ensures the suspension system functions correctly and prevents loosening, which could lead to instability or failure.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.
2

Lower Strut Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar components.
3

Upper Strut Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.

Control Arm Ball Joint

This subsystem includes bolts and nuts that secure the control arm and ball joint to the chassis and steering knuckle. Proper torque ensures the suspension remains aligned and functional.

1

Control Arm Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.
2

Ball Joint Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the ball joint is properly seated before tightening.

Steering Components

This subsystem includes bolts and nuts that secure the steering rack, tie rod ends, and related components. Proper torque ensures precise steering control and stability.

1

Tie Rod End Nut

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the tie rod end is properly seated before tightening.
2

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.

Sway Bar

This subsystem includes bolts and nuts that secure the sway bar and its links to the suspension components. Proper torque ensures the sway bar functions correctly, reducing body roll during cornering.

1

Sway Bar Link Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the sway bar link is properly seated before tightening.
2

Rear Sway Bar Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.

Wheel Hub Drivetrain

This subsystem includes bolts and nuts that secure the wheels, drive axles, and CV joints to the vehicle. Proper torque ensures the drivetrain remains connected and functional.

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
Always tighten lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
2

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.
3

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
180 ft-lbs (244 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the CV joint is properly seated before tightening.

Rear Suspension

This subsystem includes bolts that secure the rear suspension components, such as trailing arms and shock absorbers, to the chassis. Proper torque ensures the rear suspension remains stable and aligned.

1

Rear Trailing Arm Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.
2

Rear Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.

Subframe

This subsystem includes bolts that secure the subframe to the chassis. Proper torque ensures the subframe remains securely attached, maintaining suspension geometry and stability.

1

Subframe Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to avoid misalignment.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the torque specifications for the front strut mount bolts on a 1996-2000 Volvo S70?

The front strut mount bolts should be torqued to 18-22 ft-lbs (25-30 Nm). Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the suspension is under load (not lifted) when tightening these bolts to avoid misalignment or damage.

Q2

How tight should the rear shock absorber mounting bolts be?

The rear shock absorber upper and lower mounting bolts should be torqued to 33-40 ft-lbs (45-55 Nm). Always tighten these bolts with the suspension in its normal ride height position to prevent stress on the components.

Q3

Can I reuse suspension bolts, or should they be replaced?

Suspension bolts, especially those subjected to high stress (e.g., strut mount bolts), should ideally be replaced during reassembly. Reusing old bolts can lead to failure due to metal fatigue. Always consult the manufacturer's recommendations or a repair manual for guidance.

Q4

What happens if I over-torque suspension bolts?

Over-torquing can strip threads, deform components, or cause premature failure of the bolt or the part it secures. Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the specified torque values to avoid damage.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench

A precision tool used to apply a specific torque to fasteners.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibrated for accuracy
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets with various sizes to fit suspension bolts.

  • Includes deep sockets
  • Made of durable chrome vanadium steel
Learn more

Breaker Bar

A long-handled tool used to loosen tight bolts.

  • Extra leverage for tough bolts
  • Durable construction
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed steps for properly torquing front suspension bolts on a 1996-2000 Volvo S70.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the front wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the strut-to-knuckle bolts to 35 ft-lbs.
  • Tighten the control arm bolts to 63 ft-lbs.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure

Rear Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed steps for properly torquing rear suspension bolts on a 1996-2000 Volvo S70.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the rear wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the trailing arm bolts to 63 ft-lbs.
  • Tighten the shock absorber bolts to 35 ft-lbs.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Suspension Bolt Torque Correction

1999-07-15

A bulletin addressing incorrect torque specifications for suspension bolts in certain Volvo models.

1996-2000 Volvo S70

Resolution: Follow the updated torque specifications provided in this bulletin to ensure proper suspension alignment and safety.

Suspension Noise Investigation

2000-03-22

A bulletin addressing suspension noise issues caused by improperly torqued bolts.

1996-2000 Volvo S70

Resolution: Verify and retorque all suspension bolts to the correct specifications as outlined in the service manual.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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