Wheel Nut Torque

We mention wheel nut torque settings on every service, but customers sometimes don’t know or understand why it’s so important.

The torque setting for the wheel bolts on your caravan will be written on your service report. If you don’t have your report with you, then normally it can be found on the data plate near to the bottom of the habitation door. You have to refer to the figure quoted for your type of wheels, there are two figures, one for steel wheels and one for alloy wheels.

After the brake inspection I will put your wheels back on and torque (tighten) the wheel nuts to the tightness as specified by the manufacturer of your van. This is most important, obviously wheel bolts not tight enough could cause the wheel to detach, but over tightening the bolts could cause them to stretch meaning they again are not tight enough even at the correct torque. Worse is inconsistent tightness leading to bolts working loose and the wheel coming off.

It’s therefore vitally important that you check the tightness of your wheel nuts before every trip and after 30 miles pull over safely and check them again. To do this you will need a torque wrench that can tighten up to at least 130nm (Newton metres) and a 19mm or 17mm deep socket. Most caravans have 19mm bolt heads but some have 17mm. A torque wrench can cost as little as £30 and can be purchased from Screwfix or Toolstation. A single socket can be bought online or from Halfords.

If you are at all unsure about what to do, please call on 07970 250168 for advice.