Custom U-Bolts

Replacing U-Bolts

Removed U-bolts should NEVER be placed back onto the vehicle; they should be thrown away. Suspension u-bolts are manufactured with a smooth rolled thread, while the mating hi-nuts are manufactured with sharp cut threads. When a u-bolt is tightened to its recommended torque level, the u-bolt threads stretch as they mate with the hi-nuts. Although it is not always visible to the naked eye, this damages the threads. Removed hi-nuts from the u-bolt will cause a cross-threading that will not allow the u-bolt to be adequately re-torqued.

The best way to get perfect fitting u-bolts is to visit one of our two locations with the old u-bolts. Using the old u-bolts as a guide we can ensure you get an exact duplicate.

If you can't make it to the shop, we are able to bend u-bolts to your specifications. Please be advised that, due to the custom nature of this work, custom u-bolts cannot be returned for any reason. Please follow our measuring guide below.

A: Measure the width between the inside of the legs.
B: Measure the diameter of the rod at the thread.
C: Measure the length of the leg, from the top of the inside of the bend.
Bend: Note the type of bend: Round, Semi-Round, Square, or Forged Top.

U-Bolt Torque Guide

U-Bolts that bave been torqued to a set preload are recommended to be re-torqued after a short time to take up the stretch in the material.

U-Bolts that have been well lubricated with an anti-seize compound will have a torque range between plated and unplated values.

All of the below values are general guidelines. The OEM Service Manual on specific models always takes precedence over the values shown.

Size	Material Grade	Max. Torque Ft.-Lbs. Plated	Max. Torque Ft.-Lbs. Unplated
3/8 in. x 24 in.	5	21	36
7/16 in. x 20 in.	5	33	44
1/2 in. x 20 in.	5 8	52 64	70 87
9/16 in. x 18 in.	5 8	75 93	100 124
5/8 in. x 18 in.	5 8	107 143	132 177
3/4 in. x 16 in.	5 8	190 253	234 313
7/8 in. x 14 in.	5 8	304 405	375 500
1 in. x 14 in.	8	758	1010
1 1/8 in. x 12 in.	8	848	1131
1 1/4 in. x 12 in.	8	1163	1151

U-Bolts must be tightened and torqued using a cross pattern sequence.

Tighten #1 then #4 to partial toque, then partial torque #2 and #3.

Using the same sequence, fully torque U-Bolt Nuts.

DO NOT RE-USE U-BOLTS.

Actual bent u-bolt measurements may vary from nominal measurements and still be functional.