About the Engine
The 440 engine is a powerful and iconic V8 engine produced by Chrysler Corporation from 1966 to 1978. It was part of the Chrysler RB engine series and was commonly used in various Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth vehicles during its production years. The 440 engine was known for its impressive horsepower and torque, making it a popular choice for muscle cars and high-performance vehicles of its time. One crucial aspect of maintaining the 440 engine’s reliability and performance is ensuring proper head bolt torque sequence during installation or reassembly.
Head Bolt Torque Sequence for the 440 Engine
To ensure the cylinder head is securely fastened to the engine block, it is essential to follow the correct torque sequence when tightening the head bolts. The head bolt torque sequence for the 440 engine is as follows:
| Bolt Number | Torque Specification (ft. lbs.) | Torque Specification (Nm) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 80 | 108 |
| 2 | 60 | 81 |
| 3 | 80 | 108 |
| 4 | 60 | 81 |
| 5 | 80 | 108 |
| 6 | 60 | 81 |
| 7 | 80 | 108 |
| 8 | 60 | 81 |
Tightening Procedure
Follow these steps to properly tighten the head bolts on your 440 engine:
1. Begin by cleaning the cylinder head bolt holes and the threads in the engine block to ensure they are free from debris, oil, or any other contaminants.
2. Apply a small amount of engine oil or assembly lubricant to the threads of each head bolt. This will help achieve accurate torque readings and ensure proper clamping force.
3. Start with bolt number 1 and tighten it to the specified torque of 80 ft. lbs. (108 Nm) using a torque wrench.
4. Proceed to bolt number 2 and tighten it to 60 ft. lbs. (81 Nm) using the same torque wrench.
5. Continue this alternating pattern, tightening bolts 3 and 4 to 80 ft. lbs. (108 Nm) and bolts 5 and 6 to 60 ft. lbs. (81 Nm).
6. Finally, tighten bolts 7 and 8 to 80 ft. lbs. (108 Nm) and bolts 1 and 2 to 60 ft. lbs. (81 Nm) once again.
7. Repeat the tightening sequence for a second pass, increasing the torque by 90 degrees for each bolt. This ensures proper clamping force distribution and helps prevent head gasket leaks.
Final Checks
After completing the tightening procedure, it is crucial to perform a final inspection to ensure all head bolts are properly torqued. Double-check the torque values and visually inspect the bolts for any signs of looseness or misalignment.
By following the correct head bolt torque sequence and tightening procedure, you can help maintain the integrity of your 440 engine’s cylinder head installation. This will contribute to optimal performance, reliability, and longevity of your engine.