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Axle U-Bolts

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  • Axle U-Bolts

    Just thought I'd suggest to people to check the torque on their axle u-bolts. On my previous 5th wheel I had to change the axles and was surprised how relatively loose the u-bolts were. A little bit of forum searching at the time showed that loose axle u-bolts were not uncommon. So I check mine whenever I do the bearings. This past week I checked the u-bolts on my 2021 303RLS. The front axle was fine, the rear needed tightening. So I think yearly is probably a good idea.
    FYI Dexter 5200# axles.
    Recommended 9/16 ubolt torque range 65-90 ft/lbs in the Dexter manual.
    Recommended 1/2 ubolt torque range 45-70 ft/lbs in the Dexter manual.
    Last edited by Scott'n'Wendy; 05-15-2022, 02:09 PM. Reason: Add 1/2" ubolt torque values
    2018 Dodge 3500 6.7 Cummins w Aisin and 9 cup holders
    Not to brag or anything about my finances, but my bank calls me about every day to tell me my balance is OUTSTANDING!

  • #2
    Pg 67 of the manual has U-bolt torque values. https://www.dexteraxle.com/user_area...ice_manual.pdf
    I had previously torqued the U-bolts during my brake replacement/first axle service last summer. While greasing the hangers on my 337RLS this week I decided to double check them. I found at least 13 of the 16 nuts to need more torque, a couple as much as one full turn. I was surprised that they would need to be retorqued after my previous service ? Keep in mind that these are fine thread 1/2-20 nuts.
    2021 Reflection 337RLS, 2021 Silverado 3500HD 6.6 gas. Nellie the wonder boxer

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    • #3
      SO, this morning I grab the calipers, crawl under the camper with them and torque wrench to check the bolts.

      I measured both the bolt and the threads. Neither measured 7/16" or 1/2". Bolt measured 0.450 and the threads major diameter 0.475. I erred on the side of caution and picked 60 ft*lb for the flanged nuts.
      Joseph
      Tow
      Vehicle: 2024 GMC K3500 Denali Ultimate Diesel
      Coach: 303RLS Delivered March 5, 2021
      South of Houston Texas

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      • #4
        I think you have some "hybrid" U-bolts

        Mine was easy, they have the flange nuts and looked to be 1/2"
        2021 Reflection 337RLS, 2021 Silverado 3500HD 6.6 gas. Nellie the wonder boxer

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        • #5
          My 2017 Imagine with 3500lb 3" Lippert axles uses 9/16 U bolts with a torque of 60 lb-ft. Not listed in most literature.

          Jim

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          • #6
            Our Canadian Brethren will like this, 0.475" = 12mm.....
            Joseph
            Tow
            Vehicle: 2024 GMC K3500 Denali Ultimate Diesel
            Coach: 303RLS Delivered March 5, 2021
            South of Houston Texas

            Comment

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