300cx loader torque values

tuolumne · Jun 6, 2007

My 300cx manual indicates that mounting bolts should be checked after the first 10 hours. The manual indicates a value of 229 ft-lbs for these M16 bolts. I don't have any 3/4" sockets that small, and my 3/8" metric set could not stand that sort of torque even if I could deliver it with an extension on the breaker bar. A typical 1/2" torque wrench is rated up to about 150 ft-lb, even if I bought a 1/2" drive metric set it would not be sufficient. What do you folks do? They look tight. The 3/8" drive set is craftsman, maybe I should give it a whirl!

Edit - Please forgive my ignorance in this matter...the tractor is 3 hours away so I can't look...does M16 refer to a 16mm shank diameter? If so, what size head is that. Maybe my 3/4" drive set will have this covered.

daveinmo · Jun 8, 2007

tuolumne, the main loader bolts are 24MM, although a 15/16 inch socket fits them also (I also got a 3/4" drive 15/16" socket at Sears) I have a Craftsman 1/2" torque wrench with a 250 lb-ft. capacity with which I have torqued the bolts using a 1/2" drive socket. I have loosened them with a 1/2" breaker bar and 3 ft. cheater pipe and then used the torque wrench to tighten. Not easy, but it can be done. If you are checking the loader mounting bolts on the right side, then it is a big help (gain clearance) to remove the two bolts holding the hydraulic connector bracket and let it sag a 1/2" or so.

Dave