Author Topic: Lugnut issues (Read 1368 times)

Asia · « **on:** October 10, 2006, 11:47:34 PM »

I noticed that after some of my wheeling trips that: (1) some of the lugnuts were not as tight as they were, (2) one lugnut was missing on one trip, (3) this could lead to losing a wheel :roll: . I have a '95 YJ, and have Jeep Canyon aluminum wheels which I torque to 100 ft lbs in a criss cross pattern using a Westward torque wrench that "clicks" when the set torque is reached. I'm now spooked by this situation and plan on bringing my torque wrench with me on runs to check the lugnuts during the run. Has anyone else had this problem? Should I consider locktite on the lugnuts?

BlackYJ · « **Reply #1 on:** October 11, 2006, 07:23:11 AM »

I used to change my tires ALL the time when I was going between my 31s and 33s and I have never had a problem. I usually only torque my lugnuts to about 85-90 ft-lbs. I guess 3 things come to mind

1. You torqued them while the tire had the vehicle weight on it - I am guessing this is right
2. What is the condition of the nut? What is the condition of the studs?The threads might be getting worse for wear and may need replacing. If you do replace them, I recommend the solid steel ones, pricy but very nice.
3. After about 100 km did you retorque them?

My dad just randomly lost 1 lugnut one time but when he checked the rest, they were all tight

BUKI · « **Reply #2 on:** October 11, 2006, 11:23:12 AM »

good one black YJ. Asia your alum rims contract and expand at different rates than the steel used in your hubs. This is why all delerships and shops tell you to bring the vehicle back after it has been driven 80 to 100 kms. for retorqueing. When ever I retorque my lugs on my jeep they have way less torque than when I initially installed them.

Mike

Asia · « **Reply #3 on:** October 11, 2006, 03:59:09 PM »

When I torque the lugnuts ( when mounting the wheel ) there is only enough weight on the tire to keep it from turning while I torque them.

I haven't been retorqueing them after the initial torqueing, I certainly will now! Live and learn, thanks for the advice.

BlackYJ · « **Reply #4 on:** October 11, 2006, 05:31:26 PM »

It is important to have the full weight on the tire. My dad run into this problem with a like utility trailer he bought and did not torque the lugnuts when it was loaded.