GMC Savana 1996-present 6.6L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
GMC Savana 1996-present

GMC Savana 1996-present 6.6L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive torque specifications for the 6.6L engine bolts in the 1996-Present GMC Savana. Includes detailed values for cylinder head, main bearing, connecting rod, and other critical fasteners.

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

Cylinder Head

Components related to the cylinder head, including bolts that secure the cylinder head to the engine block and associated components.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Important Notes
Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence for proper sealing.

Crankshaft And Bearings

Components related to the crankshaft, including main bearing bolts and connecting rod nuts.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the crankshaft before tightening.
2

Connecting Rod Nuts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the connecting rods before tightening.

Flywheel

Components related to the flywheel, including bolts that secure the flywheel to the crankshaft.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the flywheel is properly aligned before tightening.

Oil System

Components related to the oil system, including oil pan bolts and oil drain plug.

1

Oil Pan Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the oil pan gasket is properly seated before tightening.
2

Oil Drain Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the drain plug washer is in good condition before tightening.

Valvetrain

Components related to the valvetrain, including valve cover bolts and rocker arm bolts.

1

Valve Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the valve cover gasket is properly seated before tightening.
2

Rocker Arm Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
19 ft-lbs (26 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper valve adjustment before tightening.

Timing System

Components related to the timing system, including timing belt/chain tensioner and camshaft sprocket bolts.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper tension on the timing belt/chain before tightening.
2

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the camshaft sprocket before tightening.

Intake And Exhaust

Components related to the intake and exhaust systems, including intake manifold and exhaust manifold bolts.

1

Intake Manifold Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the intake manifold gasket is properly seated before tightening.
2

Exhaust Manifold Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the exhaust manifold gasket is properly seated before tightening.

Cooling System

Components related to the cooling system, including water pump and thermostat housing bolts.

1

Water Pump Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the water pump gasket is properly seated before tightening.
2

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the thermostat housing gasket is properly seated before tightening.

Accessories

Components related to engine accessories, including alternator, starter motor, and serpentine belt tensioner bolts.

1

Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the starter motor before tightening.
2

Alternator Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the alternator before tightening.
3

Serpentine Belt Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper tension on the serpentine belt before tightening.

Fuel System

Components related to the fuel system, including fuel injector, fuel rail, and throttle body bolts.

1

Fuel Injector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
11 ft-lbs (15 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper seating of the fuel injectors before tightening.
2

Fuel Rail Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the fuel rail before tightening.
3

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the throttle body before tightening.

Ignition System

Components related to the ignition system, including spark plugs and ignition coil bolts.

1

Spark Plugs

M14 x 1.25
Torque Value
11 ft-lbs (15 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper seating of the spark plugs before tightening.
2

Ignition Coil Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the ignition coil before tightening.

Turbocharger

Components related to the turbocharger, including mounting bolts.

1

Turbocharger Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar turbocharger applications.

Sensors

Components related to engine sensors, including crankshaft and camshaft position sensor bolts.

1

Crankshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the sensor before tightening.
2

Camshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the sensor before tightening.

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 cylinder head bolts on a 6.6L engine?

The cylinder head bolts on a 6.6L engine typically require a torque of 44 ft-lbs (60 Nm) for the initial pass, followed by an additional 90-degree turn, and then a final 90-degree turn. Always refer to the manufacturer's service manual for the specific year and model, as specifications may vary slightly.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on engine components?

It is recommended to check the torque on critical engine components, such as cylinder head bolts, during major maintenance intervals (e.g., every 50,000 miles) or after any engine repair. Loose bolts can lead to leaks, reduced performance, or engine damage.

Q3

Can I reuse head bolts on a 6.6L engine?

No, head bolts on a 6.6L engine are typically torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts, which are designed for one-time use. Reusing them can compromise the clamping force and lead to engine failure. Always replace them with new bolts during reassembly.

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

Digital Torque Wrench

A precision tool for applying accurate torque to engine bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Digital display for precise readings
Learn more

Torque Angle Gauge

Used to measure the angle of rotation when torque-to-yield bolts are used.

  • Magnetic base for easy attachment
  • Clear angle markings
Learn more

Thread Locker

A chemical compound used to secure bolts and prevent loosening.

  • High-temperature resistance
  • Prevents corrosion
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps for torquing cylinder head bolts on a 6.6L engine.

  • Clean the bolt threads and bolt holes thoroughly.
  • Apply a small amount of engine oil to the bolt threads.
  • Tighten bolts in the specified sequence to 30 ft-lbs.
  • Turn each bolt an additional 90 degrees in the specified sequence.
  • Repeat the 90-degree turn for a second time.
View full procedure

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Torque Procedure

Steps for torquing main bearing cap bolts on a 6.6L engine.

  • Clean the bolt threads and bolt holes.
  • Apply thread locker to the bolt threads.
  • Tighten bolts in the specified sequence to 50 ft-lbs.
  • Turn each bolt an additional 60 degrees in the specified sequence.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Cylinder Head Bolt Failure in 6.6L Engines

2018-05-15

Reports of cylinder head bolt failures in certain 6.6L engines.

2011-2018 GMC Savana

Resolution: Replace cylinder head bolts with updated part numbers and follow revised torque specifications.

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Loosening Issue

2020-09-22

Issues with main bearing cap bolts loosening over time.

2015-2020 GMC Savana

Resolution: Apply thread locker and follow updated torque-to-yield procedures.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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