Volvo Volvo S90 1997-1998 Body Panel & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
Volvo Volvo S90 1997-1998

Volvo Volvo S90 1997-1998 Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for the body bolts of a 1997-1998 Volvo S90, including proper tightening sequences and recommended torque values.

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

Suspension

Components related to the suspension system, including struts, control arms, and sway bars, ensuring proper alignment, stability, and handling.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the strut or shock absorber during installation.
2

Control Arm Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the control arm is properly seated before torquing.
3

Ball Joint Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
52 ft-lbs (70 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the ball joint is properly seated in the steering knuckle.
4

Sway Bar Link Nut

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the sway bar link is properly aligned before torquing.

Steering

Components related to the steering system, including tie rods and steering gear, ensuring precise steering control and alignment.

1

Tie Rod End Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the tie rod end is properly seated in the steering knuckle.
2

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the steering rack is properly aligned with the subframe.

Wheels

Components related to the wheel system, including lug nuts, ensuring safe and reliable wheel attachment.

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
Always use a star pattern when tightening lug nuts.

Fuel System

Components related to the fuel system, including fuel tank straps and filler neck bolts, ensuring proper fuel containment and sealing.

1

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the fuel tank is properly seated before torquing.
2

Fuel Filler Neck Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the fuel filler neck is properly aligned with the fuel tank.

Electrical

Components related to the electrical system, including battery terminal nuts, ensuring reliable electrical connections.

1

Battery Terminal Nuts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7.4 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion before tightening.

Safety

Components related to the safety system, including seat belt anchorage bolts, ensuring occupant safety.

1

Seat Belt Anchorage Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the seat belt anchorage is properly aligned with the body structure.

Body

Components related to the body structure, including hood hinges, door hinges, and bumper mounting bolts, ensuring proper alignment and attachment.

1

Hood Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the hood is properly aligned before torquing.
2

Door Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the door is properly aligned before torquing.
3

Bumper Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the bumper is properly aligned before torquing.
4

Roofliner/Overhead Console Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7.4 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the roofliner or overhead console is properly aligned before torquing.

Chassis

Components related to the chassis, including subframe mounting bolts, ensuring structural integrity and proper alignment of suspension and steering components.

1

Subframe Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the subframe is properly aligned with the body before torquing.

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 is the torque specification for the body bolts on a 1997-1998 Volvo S90?

The torque specification for the body bolts on a 1997-1998 Volvo S90 is typically 35-40 Nm (26-30 ft-lbs). However, always refer to the vehicle's service manual or manufacturer guidelines for precise specifications, as variations may exist depending on the specific bolt location and component.

Q2

Can I reuse body bolts after removal?

It is generally not recommended to reuse body bolts, as they are often designed to stretch during installation to ensure proper clamping force. Reusing them may compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle. Always replace body bolts with new ones that meet the manufacturer's specifications.

Q3

What happens if I over-torque the body bolts?

Over-torquing body bolts can lead to thread stripping, bolt failure, or damage to the mounting points. This can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle and lead to safety issues. Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the specified torque values.

Q4

How often should body bolts be inspected?

Body bolts should be inspected during routine maintenance or after any significant impact or accident. Look for signs of corrosion, wear, or loosening. If any issues are found, replace the bolts and retorque them to the specified values.

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 to apply specific torque to body bolts

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibration certificate included
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets to fit various body bolt sizes

  • Metric sizes included
  • Durable chrome-vanadium steel
Learn more
Service Procedures

Body Bolt Torque Application

Step-by-step guide to properly torque body bolts on a 1997-1998 Volvo S90

  • Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake
  • Locate the body bolts requiring torque application
  • Use a torque wrench set to the manufacturer's specification
  • Apply torque evenly to each bolt in a crisscross pattern
  • Verify torque settings after final tightening
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Body Bolt Torque Specification Update

1998-05-15

Updated torque specifications for body bolts on 1997-1998 Volvo S90 models

1997-1998 Volvo S90

Resolution: Refer to the updated torque specifications in the service manual and re-torque affected bolts

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

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