Dodge 318 Head Bolt Torque Specs and Sequence
Dodge 318 Head Bolt Torque Specs and Sequence with application boundaries, staged tightening guidance, reuse cautions and official service-information lookup.
The referenced Chrysler 318 service manual specifies 85 lb-ft for production-style cylinder-head bolts. Apply the final value only after matching the LA-era iron head, factory-type fastener, gasket and thread treatment.
The referenced Chrysler 318 service manual specifies 85 lb-ft for production-style cylinder-head bolts. Apply the final value only after matching the LA-era iron head, factory-type fastener, gasket and thread treatment.
Covers traditional Chrysler LA 318 iron-head combinations; Magnum 5.2L, Poly 318 and aftermarket aluminum heads or stud kits are separate applications.
Interactive 318 LA V8 center-out sequence aid
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This balanced pattern is an orientation aid; use the exact numbered manufacturer diagram for assembly.
Dodge 318 Head Bolt Torque Specs
| APPLICATION / ITEM | SPECIFICATION | NOTES |
|---|---|---|
| Chrysler manual final torque | 85 lb-ft | Production-style 318 hardware |
| Suggested staged workflow | 30, 60, then 85 lb-ft | Maintain the exact center-out order |
| Aftermarket studs/heads | Component-maker procedure | Do not transfer the stock value |
Tighten from the center outward in progressive passes, verify whether the exact application calls for sealant, and follow the gasket or replacement-fastener maker when its lubricant or retorque instructions differ.
Application boundaries for 318 LA V8
Covers traditional Chrysler LA 318 iron-head combinations; Magnum 5.2L, Poly 318 and aftermarket aluminum heads or stud kits are separate applications.
Tighten from the center outward in progressive passes, verify whether the exact application calls for sealant, and follow the gasket or replacement-fastener maker when its lubricant or retorque instructions differ.
Dodge 318 LA V8 specifications can change by model year, engine, platform, wheel, and installed component. Confirm the VIN or engine identity, part numbers, fastener condition, and the current manufacturer instructions before service.
Procedures used with this specification
These steps are the same for every vehicle in this family, so they are documented once rather than repeated on each page. The values above remain specific to this Dodge 318 LA V8.
Dodge 318 Head Bolt Torque Specs and Sequence FAQs
What is the head bolt torque on a Dodge 318?+
The referenced Chrysler service manual specifies 85 lb-ft for production-style cylinder-head bolts on the LA 318.
How should the 85 lb-ft be reached?+
Through progressive center-out passes — a practical staged workflow is 30, then 60, then 85 lb-ft — keeping the exact numbered order on every pass rather than taking one bolt to final torque at a time.
Does this cover a Magnum 5.2L or a Poly 318?+
No. The value covers traditional Chrysler LA 318 iron-head combinations. The Magnum 5.2L, the Poly 318, and aftermarket aluminum heads or stud kits are separate applications.
What if the gasket maker's instructions disagree with 85 lb-ft?+
Follow the gasket or replacement-fastener maker when its lubricant or retorque instructions differ, and verify whether your exact application calls for sealant in the first place.
Technical sources
TorqueSheet favors engine- and component-specific manufacturer instructions over unsourced universal values.
1Chrysler 318/400 industrial engine service manualOriginal Chrysler service-manual scan listing 85 lb-ft for the 318 cylinder-head bolts; vehicle year, head, gasket and replacement-fastener instructions still control.↗