An important part of safe RV ownership is maintaining the torque of the wheel lug nuts.
An important part of safe RV ownership is maintaining the torque of the wheel lug nuts. Keystone RV Master Technicians, Matt and Bart describe the importance of the WHY, HOW, and WHEN to torque RV lug nuts.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO TORQUE RV LUG NUTS?
It is important to understand the overall size, weight, and center of gravity of an RV. Combined, all of this subjects the wheels to different pressures that are unique to an RV and are much different than those of a car. As the manufacturer, lug nuts are torqued at least three times prior to the RV leaving the factory. It is the owners’ responsibility to make certain they are tight and properly torqued before each and every trip. Based on the owner's manual, this function is required periodically as part of normal maintenance and subsequent to any wheel removal and/or reinstallation during the life span of the RV.
HOW TO TORQUE RV LUG NUTS?
Tools needed: a torque wrench that reads ft/lb (feet per pound) and the correct-sized socket. (DO NOT use a “4-Way” or any other wrench that doesn’t measure ft/lbs of pressure when it is being applied.)
Steps to torque: We are using an adjustable click Torque Wrench
- Unlock the handle and set the dial to your desired torque value.
- Lock the handle back in place.
- With the socket secure on the lug nut, with one hand, support the head of the wrench, and with the other hand, apply clockwise pressure. When the torque reaches the desired value, the wrench will make an audible "click,” signaling you to stop applying further pressure. Further pressure could result in an over-torque of the lug nut or stud and cause damage.
- Follow the appropriate star pattern sequence as referenced in Chapter 4 of the Keystone Owner's Manual. Review: https://www.keystonerv.com/owners-manuals
WARNING: Too much torque can damage the lug nut and stud, leading to wheel separation.
WHEN TO TORQUE RV LUG NUTS?
As recommended by your axle/wheel manufacturer, lug nut torque should be done before every trip. It is the owners' responsibility to review and follow the care and operation of the RV as outlined in the Keystone Owner's Manual Chapter 4 Axles, Tires and Weights. Review: https://www.keystonerv.com/owners-manuals
Safety first, torque before each and every trip! When checking lug nut torque, it is very important to follow the appropriate star pattern sequence to assure even torque across all lug nuts. Anytime a wheel is removed from the axle/hub, it must be reinstalled carefully following the 2 step process as described in the Keystone Owner's Manual Chapter 4. Review: https://www.keystonerv.com/owners-manuals
We hope this RV Pro Tip video has been helpful, especially for some of you 1st-time campers or even the forever RVers who need a reminder. All of this information described is also be found in your Keystone Owner’s Manual, Chapter 4 Tires, Axles, and Weights. Just another way Keystone RV helps you Camp Better! Owner's Manual for review: https://www.keystonerv.com/owners-manuals