Audi Audi RS5 2010-2016 AL450 Transmission Transmission Torque Specifications & Bolt Torque Values
Audi Audi RS5 2010-2016

Audi Audi RS5 2010-2016 AL450 Transmission Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for all bolts related to the AL450 transmission found in the 2010-2016 Audi RS5 (B8) model. This includes bellhousing bolts, pan bolts, and other critical fasteners.

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

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Transmission Housing

These components comprise the main structure of the transmission, housing all internal components. Proper torque is essential for structural integrity and leak prevention.

1

Transmission Housing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the main transmission case halves together. Proper torque is critical for maintaining case integrity and preventing leaks. Estimated value.

Mechatronics Unit

This subsystem includes the valve body and its associated components, responsible for controlling hydraulic pressure and gear selection.

1

Mechatronics Unit Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the mechatronics unit (valve body) to the transmission housing. Over-tightening can damage the mechatronics unit or cause leaks. Estimated value.
2

Valve Body Solenoid Mounting Bolts

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
These small bolts secure the various solenoids to the valve body. Over-tightening will damage solenoids and cause improper operation.

Oil System

This subsystem contains components related to transmission fluid containment, drainage and circulation.

1

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the transmission oil pan to the transmission housing. Proper torque is essential to prevent oil leaks and ensure a good seal. Estimated value.
2

Transmission Drain Plug

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40 N·m)
Important Notes
Seals the transmission drain hole, preventing fluid leaks. Proper torque is critical to prevent stripping threads on the aluminum case and ensure proper sealing.
3

Transmission Fill Plug

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40 N·m)
Important Notes
Seals the transmission fill hole, preventing leaks. Proper torque is critical to prevent stripping threads on the aluminum case and ensure proper sealing.
4

Oil Pump Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the oil pump housing, ensuring proper lubrication. Estimated value.

Shaft Housings

Components related to the input and output shafts including their respective housings and bearing assemblies.

1

Input Shaft Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the input shaft housing to the transmission case. Proper torque is important for maintaining alignment and preventing issues with input shaft bearing performance. Estimated value.
2

Output Shaft Bearing Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the output shaft bearing housing to the transmission case. Maintaining proper bearing alignment is critical for smooth operation. Estimated value.

Torque Converter

Components that attach the transmission to the engine, specifically the torque converter and flexplate.

1

Torque Converter Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the torque converter to the engine flywheel. Correct torque is essential for proper engine-transmission connection. Critically Important for Safety and drivetrain integrity. Estimated value.

Mounts

Components that secure the transmission to the vehicle's chassis.

1

Transmission Mount Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Important Notes
These bolts secure the transmission to the vehicle's chassis. Proper torque ensures secure mounting and reduces vibration. Critical Safety Bolts. Estimated value.

Clutch Assembly

Components that pertain to the clutch packs and their housings.

1

Clutch Pack Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Holds the clutch pack housings together. Proper torque is essential to ensure proper clutch engagement and disengagement. Estimated value.

Differential

Components related to the transmission's differential assembly.

1

Differential Housing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the differential housing to the transmission case. Must be torqued properly for proper gear meshing and oil seal. Estimated value.

Sensors

Components that are used to measure rotational speed of internal transmission components.

1

Speed Sensor Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Holds the speed sensors securely in place. Over-tightening can damage the sensor or the mounting point.

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 happens if I over-torque the AL450 transmission bolts?

Over-torquing can stretch or damage the bolt threads, potentially leading to bolt failure, stripped threads in the transmission housing, or uneven pressure distribution which can cause leaks. In severe cases, you might crack the aluminum transmission case. For example, if a bell housing bolt is overtightened, the case may crack around the bolt hole, requiring costly repairs.

Q2

What happens if I under-torque the AL450 transmission bolts?

Under-torquing the bolts can lead to components becoming loose, potentially causing leaks, vibration, and ultimately, transmission failure. For example, if the oil pan bolts are under-torqued, you may experience a transmission fluid leak. Insufficient bolt clamping force can also cause joint slippage under load.

Q3

Should I use new bolts when working on the AL450 transmission?

It's highly recommended to use new bolts, especially torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts, which are commonly found in the AL450 transmission system. These bolts are designed to stretch during tightening to provide precise clamping force and cannot be reused. Reusing TTY bolts can result in inconsistent clamping force and reduced reliability. For example, if you remove the transmission mount bolts, it's best practice to replace them with new ones to ensure proper mounting.

Q4

Do I need special tools for torquing AL450 transmission bolts?

Yes, a calibrated torque wrench is essential for achieving the correct torque specifications. It's crucial to use a wrench with the appropriate range for the torque values specified. Some bolts may require specialized sockets or extensions. Using a standard wrench without a torque setting can lead to either over or under torquing. For example, when torquing the valve body bolts, a low-range torque wrench with an appropriate socket is required.

Q5

How often should I check the AL450 transmission bolt torques?

Generally, the bolt torques should be checked if a component has been removed and reinstalled. Regularly checking the torque of bolts isn't standard practice unless there is a known issue or leak. However, after major work or if unusual noises or vibrations are observed, inspection is a good idea. For instance, if you had a transmission pan replacement you should check the bolt torque after a few initial drives as the seal may settle.

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

Torque Wrench (1/2-inch Drive)

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. 1/2-inch drive is common for transmission work.

  • Wide torque range to cover al450 specifications
  • Click-type or digital torque measurement
  • Accurate and reliable readings
Learn more

Torx Socket Set

A complete set of Torx sockets, including various sizes commonly used in the al450 transmission housing and valve body.

  • Durable construction for repeated use
  • Variety of sizes for different bolts
  • Precise fitment to prevent slippage
Learn more

Extension Bars (Various Lengths)

Extension bars are necessary to reach recessed or difficult to access bolts on the al450 transmission.

  • Secure connection to sockets
  • Allows access to hard to reach areas
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Universal Joint (Swivel Adapter)

A universal joint or swivel adapter allows torque to be applied to bolts at angles.

  • Allows for angled torque application
  • Strong and reliable design
  • Secure connection to sockets
Learn more
Service Procedures

AL450 Transmission Oil Pan Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the correct steps to install and torque the oil pan bolts for the al450 transmission found in 2010-2016 Audi RS5 models.

  • Clean the mating surfaces of the oil pan and transmission case thoroughly.
  • Install a new oil pan gasket.
  • Hand-tighten the oil pan bolts in a star pattern.
  • Using a calibrated torque wrench, torque the bolts to 10 Nm (7 ft-lbs) in a star pattern.
  • Check bolts for proper seating and repeat if needed.
  • Recheck torque spec after initial warm-up of transmission
View full procedure

AL450 Mechatronic Unit Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the correct steps to install and torque the Mechatronic unit bolts for the al450 transmission found in 2010-2016 Audi RS5 models.

  • Clean the mating surfaces of the mechatronic unit and transmission housing.
  • Install a new gasket on the mechatronic unit.
  • Hand-tighten the mechatronic unit bolts.
  • Using a calibrated torque wrench, torque the bolts to 8 Nm (6 ft-lbs) in a star pattern.
  • Check bolts for proper seating and repeat if needed.
View full procedure

AL450 Transmission Housing Bolt Torque Procedure

This procedure outlines the correct steps to install and torque the transmission housing bolts for the al450 transmission found in 2010-2016 Audi RS5 models.

  • Clean the mating surfaces of the transmission housing halves.
  • Apply sealant to mating surfaces as necessary, check torque spec before applying sealant
  • Hand-tighten the transmission housing bolts in the recommended sequence.
  • Using a calibrated torque wrench, torque the bolts to 25 Nm (18 ft-lbs) in the recommended sequence.
  • Check bolts for proper seating and repeat if needed.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

AL450 Transmission Oil Pan Bolt Loosening

2015-03-10

Some instances of oil pan bolts loosening have been reported in early production runs of 2010-2012 models. This may result in fluid leaks.

2010-2012

Resolution: Inspect oil pan bolts at service intervals. Follow procedure for proper torque spec. If bolt loosening persists, use new fasteners and replace gasket.

AL450 Mechatronic Unit Bolt Torque Sensitivity

2013-11-22

Torque values for the mechatronic unit are crucial. Over-tightening may cause damage to the unit. Under-tightening may cause leaks and malfunctions. Use a calibrated torque wrench.

2010-2016

Resolution: Follow the specified torque procedure for the mechatronic unit precisely. Replace bolts that are suspected to have been over tightened.

AL450 Transmission Housing Bolt Procedure Update

2016-07-15

Updated torque procedure and sequence for the transmission housing bolts. Failure to follow the new procedure may lead to premature seal failure and leaks.

2010-2016

Resolution: Refer to updated service information for specific torque sequence when installing transmission housing bolts.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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