6/1/2007
Late Model GM Rod Bolts
Is it okay to reuse connecting rod bolts on some late model GM engines?
Is it okay to reuse connecting rod bolts on some late model GM engines?
The AERA Technical Committee offers the following information regarding revised connecting rod bolt torque for 1997-2007 GM 4.8, 5.3, 5.7 and 6.0L engines. This information applies to all current GEN III and IV design small block engine variations. This information should be considered any time the bolts are being installed.
Although the bolt tightening method uses the now familiar torque-turn, the bolts DO NOT need to be replaced unless they’re damaged. It has been determined additional final torque may be applied to the connecting rod bolts in the these engines.
The bolts should be tightened in a two step process, (see Chart 1) with the second step including an additional 10° turn from the original specification.
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Chart 1
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| Application |
1st Step |
2nd Step |
Gen III &
Gen IV |
15 ft.lbs. (20 Nm) |
Rotate Each Bolt an additional 85°, using
A Torque Angle Meter (J45059) |
| |
Chart 1 Revised connecting rod torque specs for GM 4.8, 5,3, 5.7 and 6.0L engines.