Subaru Vehicle Models Subaru Legacy 1989-1993

Subaru Vehicle Models Subaru Legacy 1989-1993 Torque Specifications

Complete Subaru Vehicle Models Subaru Legacy 1989-1993 torque specifications guide. Includes factory-specified torque values, torque sequences, and technical specifications for all components including body, brakes, drivetrain, electrical, emissions sensors, fuel, exhaust, HVAC, and suspension. Essential information for proper assembly and maintenance.

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

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Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

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Body

Torque specifications for Body

Seat Mounting

1

Front Seat Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
32.5 ft-lbs (44 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).
2

Rear Seat Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M8 bolts in body applications.

Door System

1

Door Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).
2

Door Striker Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M8 bolts in body applications.

Hood System

1

Hood Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).
2

Hood Latch Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts in body applications.

Trunk System

1

Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).
2

Trunk Latch Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts in body applications.

Bumper System

1

Bumper Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
32.5 ft-lbs (44 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).

Radiator Support

1

Radiator Support Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).

Fender System

1

Fender Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M8 bolts in body applications.

Roof Rack System

1

Roof Rack Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts in body applications.

Fuel Door System

1

Fuel Door Hinge Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts in body applications.

Mirror System

1

Mirror Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts in body applications.

Wiper System

1

Windshield Wiper Arm Nut

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M8 nuts in body applications.

License Plate System

1

License Plate Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for M6 bolts in body applications.

Brakes

Torque specifications for Brakes

Brake Caliper

1

Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts (Front and Rear)

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M10 bolts.
2

Brake Caliper Bracket Bolts (Front and Rear)

M12 x 1.25
Torque Specification
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M12 bolts.
3

Brake Pad Retaining Pins (Front and Rear)

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 pins.

Brake Rotor

1

Brake Disc (Rotor) Retaining Screws (Front and Rear)

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards for M6 screws.

Brake Hydraulics

1

Brake Hose Banjo Bolt (Front and Rear)

M10 x 1.0
Torque Specification
19 ft-lbs (26 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M10x1.0 banjo bolts.
2

Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.
3

Brake Line Fittings (Flare Nuts)

10mm flare nut
Torque Specification
13 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards for 10mm flare nuts.

Brake Pedal

1

Brake Pedal Bracket Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.

Parking Brake

1

Parking Brake Cable Bracket Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M8 bolts.

Wheel Assembly

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Specification
69 ft-lbs (93 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on similar models and industry standards for M12x1.25 lug nuts.

Drivetrain

Torque specifications for Drivetrain

Flywheel And Clutch

1

Flywheel Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 70-80 ft-lbs (95-108 N·m). Follow a crisscross or star pattern for even clamping force.
2

Pressure Plate Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 14-18 ft-lbs (19-24 N·m). Follow a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.

Driveshaft And Differential

1

Driveshaft Flange Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 47-52 ft-lbs (64-70 N·m). Ensure proper alignment of the driveshaft.
2

Differential Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 47-52 ft-lbs (64-70 N·m). Ensure proper alignment of the differential.
3

Rear Differential Cover Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 14-18 ft-lbs (19-24 N·m). Follow a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.

Axles And Hubs

1

Axle Nut (Front and Rear)

M24 x 1.5
Torque Specification
148 ft-lbs (201 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 137-159 ft-lbs (186-216 N·m). Ensure the axle is properly seated before torquing.

Transmission And Transfer Case

1

Transmission Mount Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 47-52 ft-lbs (64-70 N·m). Ensure proper alignment of the transmission.
2

Transfer Case Bolts (4WD Models)

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 47-52 ft-lbs (64-70 N·m). Ensure proper alignment of the transfer case.
3

Bellhousing Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 47-52 ft-lbs (64-70 N·m). Follow a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.

Drain And Fill Plugs

1

Rear Differential Drain and Fill Plugs

M18 x 1.5
Torque Specification
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 29-36 ft-lbs (39-49 N·m). Ensure the sealing washer is in good condition.
2

Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs

M18 x 1.5
Torque Specification
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is an average of the range 29-36 ft-lbs (39-49 N·m). Ensure the sealing washer is in good condition.

Electrical

Torque specifications for Electrical

Alternator System

1

Alternator Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on similar year Subaru Legacy and industry standards. Follow a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.
2

Alternator Bracket Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on similar year Subaru Legacy and industry standards. Follow a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.

Starter System

1

Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
31 ft-lbs (42 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on similar year Subaru Legacy and industry standards. Follow a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.

Battery System

1

Battery Terminal Clamp Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to the terminal or threads.
2

Ground Strap Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Ensure proper grounding to prevent electrical malfunctions.

Ignition System

1

Ignition Coil Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Avoid over-tightening to prevent cracking the coil housing.
2

Distributor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Ensure proper timing and electrical connections.

Electrical Enclosures

1

Fuse Box Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Ensure proper alignment and secure mounting to prevent vibration damage.
2

Voltage Regulator Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Ensure proper voltage regulation and electrical stability.

Lighting System

1

Headlight Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Ensure proper alignment to prevent vibration and misalignment.
2

Horn Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Ensure proper operation and prevent vibration-induced noise.

Wiper System

1

Wiper Motor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to the motor housing.

Hvac System

1

Blower Motor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on industry standards. Ensure proper airflow and prevent vibration noise.

Power Steering System

1

Power Steering Pump Bracket Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is based on similar year Subaru Legacy and industry standards. Follow a crisscross pattern for even clamping force.

Emissions Sensors

Torque specifications for Emissions_sensors

Oxygen Sensor System

1

Oxygen Sensor Mounting Bolt

M18 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Use anti-seize compound on the threads to prevent seizing. Torque value is an industry standard for M18x1.5 O2 sensor threads.

Exhaust Manifold System

1

Exhaust Manifold to Cylinder Head Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
24 ft-lbs (33 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. Torque value is based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).
2

Exhaust Manifold Heat Shield Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on M6x1.0 bolt size and heat shield applications.

Catalytic Converter System

1

Catalytic Converter Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
Important Notes
Replace gaskets and use new bolts if corroded. Torque value is an industry standard for M8x1.25 flange bolts.

Egr System

1

EGR Valve Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new gasket when reinstalling the EGR valve. Torque value is based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).
2

EGR Pipe Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on M8x1.25 bolt size and exhaust flange applications.

Pcv System

1

PCV Valve Mounting Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on M6x1.0 bolt size and PCV valve applications.

Throttle Body System

1

Throttle Body Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new gasket when reinstalling the throttle body. Torque value is based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).

Intake Manifold System

1

Intake Manifold Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. Torque value is based on similar year Subaru Legacy (1990-1994).

Air Injection System

1

AIS Check Valve Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value is estimated based on M6x1.0 bolt size and AIS applications.

Vacuum System

1

Vacuum Line Fittings

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
1.5 ft-lbs (2 N·m)
Important Notes
Hand-tight plus 1/4 turn. Torque value is an industry standard for vacuum line fittings.

Exhaust

Torque specifications for Exhaust

Exhaust Manifold

1

Exhaust Manifold to Cylinder Head Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
24 ft-lbs (32.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar year Subaru Legacy models and industry standards for M8 bolts in high-temperature applications.
2

Exhaust Manifold to Exhaust Pipe Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
23.5 ft-lbs (32 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar year Subaru Legacy models and industry standards for M8 bolts in exhaust applications.

Exhaust Pipe And Catalytic Converter

1

Exhaust Pipe Flange to Catalytic Converter Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar year Subaru Legacy models and industry standards for M8 bolts in exhaust applications.
2

Catalytic Converter to Mid-Pipe Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar year Subaru Legacy models and industry standards for M8 bolts in exhaust applications.

Mid Pipe And Muffler

1

Mid-Pipe to Muffler Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
23.5 ft-lbs (32 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar year Subaru Legacy models and industry standards for M8 bolts in exhaust applications.
2

Muffler Hanger Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (21.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for M6 bolts in exhaust hanger applications.

Oxygen Sensor

1

Oxygen Sensor (O2 Sensor)

M18 x 1.5
Torque Specification
35 ft-lbs (47.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for oxygen sensor installations.

Heat Shields

1

Heat Shield Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8.5 ft-lbs (11.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for M6 bolts in heat shield applications.

Mounting Brackets

1

Exhaust System Mounting Brackets

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar year Subaru Legacy models and industry standards for M8 bolts in mounting applications.

Turbocharger Downpipe

1

Turbocharger Downpipe Flange Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
27.5 ft-lbs (37.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar year Subaru Legacy Turbo models and industry standards for M8 bolts in turbo applications.

Fuel

Torque specifications for Fuel

Fuel Rail System

1

Fuel Rail Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (10.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M6 bolts in fuel systems.
2

Fuel Injector Retaining Clips

M5 x 0.8
Torque Specification
4 ft-lbs (5.4 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M5 bolts in fuel injector applications.
3

Fuel Pressure Regulator Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (10.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M6 bolts in fuel systems.

Fuel Tank System

1

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (21.7 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M8 bolts in fuel tank applications.
2

Fuel Pump Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (10.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M6 bolts in fuel systems.
3

Fuel Tank Drain Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27.1 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M14 drain plugs in fuel tanks.

Fuel Delivery System

1

Fuel Line Banjo Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Specification
23.5 ft-lbs (31.9 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M12 banjo bolts in fuel systems.
2

Fuel Filter Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (10.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standards for M6 bolts in fuel systems.

Hvac

Torque specifications for Hvac

Blower Motor

1

Blower Motor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (10.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on M6 bolt size and typical HVAC blower motor applications.
2

Blower Fan Blade Nut

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
9 ft-lbs (12.2 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on typical blower fan applications.

Hvac Case

1

HVAC Case Assembly Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (21.7 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year Subaru Legacy specifications for plastic housing fasteners.
2

HVAC Duct Clamp Screws

M4 x 0.7
Torque Specification
4 ft-lbs (5.4 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on M4 screw size and typical duct clamp applications.

Heater Core

1

Heater Core Inlet/Outlet Pipe Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
13.5 ft-lbs (18.3 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 bolts in coolant system applications.
2

Expansion Valve Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
8 ft-lbs (10.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 bolts in A/C system applications.

A C System

1

Compressor Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
20 ft-lbs (27.1 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Subaru Legacy specifications for compressor mounting bolts.
2

Condenser Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
16 ft-lbs (21.7 N·m)
Important Notes
Similar year Subaru Legacy specifications for condenser mounting bolts.
3

A/C Line Flange Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Specification
13.5 ft-lbs (18.3 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for M6 bolts in A/C line applications.

Suspension

Torque specifications for Suspension

Strut Assembly

1

Strut Mount Nuts (Top Mount to Body)

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
25.5 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).
2

Strut-to-Knuckle Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
108.5 ft-lbs (147 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).
3

Upper Strut Mount Nuts (Top of Strut Assembly)

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
25.5 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).

Control Arms

1

Lower Control Arm-to-Subframe Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
79.5 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).
2

Lower Ball Joint-to-Knuckle Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
39.5 ft-lbs (53.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).

Sway Bar

1

Sway Bar End Link Nuts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
25.5 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar components.
2

Sway Bar Bracket Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Specification
18 ft-lbs (24.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar components.

Steering

1

Tie Rod End-to-Knuckle Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
39.5 ft-lbs (53.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).

Rear Suspension

1

Rear Lateral Link-to-Knuckle Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
79.5 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).
2

Rear Trailing Arm-to-Body Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
79.5 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).
3

Rear Shock Absorber-to-Lower Mounting Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Specification
39.5 ft-lbs (53.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards for similar components.

Subframe

1

Front Crossmember-to-Body Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
1. 79.5 ft-lbs (108 N·m) 2. 90°
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy). Torque sequence is critical for even clamping force.
2

Rear Subframe-to-Body Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
1. 79.5 ft-lbs (108 N·m) 2. 90°
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy). Torque sequence is critical for even clamping force.
3

Rear Differential Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Specification
79.5 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar year (1990-1994 Subaru Legacy).

Wheels

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Specification
68.5 ft-lbs (93 N·m)
Important Notes
Industry standard for similar vehicles. Always use a crisscross pattern for torque sequence.

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 IS the recommended torque for the cylinder head bolts on a 1993 Subaru Legacy 2.2L engine?

90 ft-lbs (122 Nm) in three stages: 30 ft-lbs (41 Nm), then 60 ft-lbs (81 Nm), and finally 90 ft-lbs (122 Nm).

Q2

What type of torque wrench should be used for critical bolts such as connecting rod bolts?

A calibrated click-type torque wrench with an accuracy of ±4% IS recommended for critical bolts.

Q3

Can I use a standard torque wrench for all bolts on the vehicle?

No, some bolts require a specific type of torque wrench, such as an angle torque wrench for torque-to-yield bolts.

Q4

How often should I re-torque the wheel lug nuts?

Wheel lug nuts should be re-torqued after the first 500 miles (800 km) and then periodically as specified in the vehicle's maintenance schedule.

Q5

What are the torque specifications for the spark plugs on a 1989 Subaru Legacy 1.8L engine?

18 ft-lbs (24 Nm)

Q6

Can I use an impact wrench to tighten bolts?

Impact wrenches should not be used on critical bolts. They can overtighten and damage the bolts.

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 (10-100 Nm)

Essential tool for achieving precise torque values, ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage.

  • Precise digital display for accurate readings
  • Audible and visual indicators to alert when target torque IS reached
  • Multiple measurement units (Nm, ft-lb, in-lb) for versatility
  • Reversible ratcheting mechanism for ease of use
Learn more
Service Procedures

General Torque Specifications for 1989-1993 Subaru Legacy

Comprehensive guide to torque specifications for various components on the Legacy.

  • Torque values for engine components, including cylinder head bolts, intake and exhaust manifold bolts, and camshaft bolts
  • Torque specifications for suspension components, such as control arm bolts, ball joint nuts, and strut bolts
  • Tightening sequences and specific instructions for each component
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Service Bulletin: Updated Torque Specifications for Legacy Suspension Components

1992-05-15

Updates and corrections to torque specifications for suspension components due to design changes.

1989-1993 Legacy

Resolution: Provides revised torque specifications for control arm bolts, ball joint nuts, and strut bolts. Emphasizes the importance of using the updated specifications to ensure proper suspension performance and safety.

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Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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  • Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
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About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

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