Cadillac ATS 2013-2019 6L45 Transmission Torque Specifications
Detailed torque specifications for bolts on the 6L45 transmission used in the 2013-2019 Cadillac ATS. Includes pan bolts, case bolts, and other related fastener torque values.
Important Information
Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application
Safety First
- Always verify torque specifications with your vehicle's factory service manual
- Use properly calibrated torque wrenches
- Replace all torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts - they are single-use only
- When in doubt, consult a professional mechanic
Quick Reference Guide
Quick Reference Guide
Common Torque Patterns
Star Pattern
Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns
Cross Pattern
Used for gaskets and cover plates
Sequential Pattern
Used for head bolts and other critical components
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-tightening
Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.
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.
Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.
Dirty Threads
Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.
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.
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.
Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.
Recommended Tools
Recommended Tools
Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)
Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)
Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)
Angle Gauge
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 Mounting
Bolts securing the transmission to the engine and/or chassis.
1 Transmission Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Transmission Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
Bellhousing
Bolts securing the transmission bellhousing to the engine block.
1 Bellhousing Bolts (M10)
M10 x 1.5
Bellhousing Bolts (M10)
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Bellhousing Bolts (M12)
M12 x 1.75
Bellhousing Bolts (M12)
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
Oil Pan
Bolts securing the transmission oil pan to the transmission case.
1 Transmission Oil Pan Bolts
M6 x 1.0
Transmission Oil Pan Bolts
M6 x 1.0Torque Value
Important Notes
Drain Fill Plugs
Plugs for draining and filling transmission fluid.
1 Transmission Drain/Fill Plugs
M18 x 1.5
Transmission Drain/Fill Plugs
M18 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Drivetrain Connections
Bolts connecting the transmission to the drive axles and propeller shaft.
1 Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Output Shaft
Nut securing the transmission output shaft.
1 Transmission Output Shaft Nut
M24 x 1.5
Transmission Output Shaft Nut
M24 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Transmission Case
Bolts holding the transmission case sections together.
1 Transmission Case Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Transmission Case Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Cooler Lines
Fittings connecting the cooler lines to the transmission.
1 Transmission Fluid Cooler Line Fittings
N/A
Transmission Fluid Cooler Line Fittings
N/ATorque Value
Important Notes
Internal Components
Bolts securing internal transmission components.
1 Transmission Internal Solenoid Bolts
M5 x 0.8
Transmission Internal Solenoid Bolts
M5 x 0.8Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Transmission Speed Sensor Bolts
M5 x 0.8
Transmission Speed Sensor Bolts
M5 x 0.8Torque Value
Important Notes
Troubleshooting Guide
Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines
Common Issues
Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns
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
Diagnostic Steps
Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment
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
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
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
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 Why are accurate torque specifications crucial for the 6L45 transmission?
Why are accurate torque specifications crucial for the 6L45 transmission?
Accurate torque is critical to ensure proper clamping force, preventing leaks, and maintaining the structural integrity of the transmission. Over-torquing can damage threads or distort components, leading to premature failure. Under-torquing can result in leaks, looseness, and eventually damage. For example, the valve body bolts must be torqued precisely to prevent fluid leaks and ensure proper valve operation. Imagine if the pan bolts are under-torqued, this could cause a slow fluid leak. Over-torquing will easily strip the aluminum threads, which are known to be weaker on these transmissions.
Q2 What should I do if I accidentally over-torque a bolt?
What should I do if I accidentally over-torque a bolt?
If you suspect or know you have over-torqued a bolt, it is imperative to inspect the bolt and the threaded hole. Over-torquing can cause the bolt to stretch or the threads in the transmission casing to become damaged (especially common on aluminum castings). It's advisable to replace the bolt and, if thread damage is present, consider using a thread repair insert (like a helicoil). Never reuse an over-torqued bolt.
Q3 Can I reuse old bolts when working on the 6L45 transmission?
Can I reuse old bolts when working on the 6L45 transmission?
It is generally not recommended to reuse bolts, especially torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts, as they are designed to stretch and provide the clamping force. While some bolts can be reused, it is best practice to replace bolts when working on the transmission, particularly those related to critical components like valve body and case assemblies. New bolts ensure proper clamping force and prevent future issues. If reusing bolts, you will need to account for stretch on any yield bolts and will not be able to reuse them in that case. If you need to, you should always clean them prior to reinstalling.
Q4 Do I need special tools to torque the 6L45 transmission bolts?
Do I need special tools to torque the 6L45 transmission bolts?
Yes, a calibrated torque wrench is essential. You will need a range of sizes from inch-pounds to foot-pounds. An accurate torque wrench is needed for proper torque. A digital torque adapter is also great to ensure proper readings. Some applications require the use of an angle gauge for achieving torque to yield, or TTY values. This is often seen on critical parts of the transmission, such as the bell housing.
Environmental Considerations
Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications
Temperature Effects
Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling
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
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
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" drive)
A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurate bolt tightening to prevent damage.
- 1/2" drive for common bolt sizes
- Adjustable torque settings
- Must be calibrated for accuracy
Torque Wrench (3/8" drive)
A smaller drive torque wrench for smaller fasteners and tighter spaces.
- 3/8" drive for smaller fasteners
- Adjustable torque settings
- Must be calibrated for accuracy
Socket Set (Metric)
A comprehensive set of metric sockets is necessary to fit the various bolt heads on the 6L45 transmission.
- Various sizes to fit all transmission bolts
- 6-point for optimum grip
- Deep and standard sockets
Extensions and Adapters
Various extensions and adapters are necessary for reaching hard-to-access bolts.
- Various lengths for different reach
- Swivel adapters for angled access
- Impact rated extensions
Service Procedures
6L45 Transmission Pan Bolt Torque Procedure
Proper tightening procedure for the transmission pan bolts to ensure a leak-free seal.
- Clean the transmission pan and mounting surfaces.
- Install new pan gasket.
- Install transmission pan.
- Tighten all bolts finger tight.
- Torque bolts to 10 Nm (89 lb-in) in a crisscross pattern
- Double check all bolts have been torqued to specification
6L45 Transmission Valve Body Bolt Torque Procedure
Proper tightening procedure for the valve body bolts, critical for proper transmission operation.
- Clean the valve body and mating surfaces.
- Install valve body.
- Tighten all bolts finger tight.
- Torque bolts to 10 Nm (89 lb-in) in a crisscross pattern.
- Double check all bolts have been torqued to specification
6L45 Transmission Bellhousing Bolt Torque Procedure
Proper tightening procedure for the bellhousing bolts connecting the transmission to the engine.
- Clean the transmission and engine mating surfaces.
- Install transmission.
- Install all bellhousing bolts.
- Tighten all bolts finger tight.
- Torque bolts to 50 Nm (37 lb-ft)
- Double check all bolts have been torqued to specification
6L45 Transmission Mount Bolt Torque Procedure
Proper tightening procedure for the transmission mount bolts to secure the transmission to the chassis.
- Position transmission mount to the chassis and transmission
- Install all mounting bolts.
- Tighten all bolts finger tight.
- Torque bolts to 45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
- Double check all bolts have been torqued to specification
Technical Service Bulletins
6L45 Transmission Fluid Leakage from Pan
2016-03-15Some 2013-2016 Cadillac ATS models may experience transmission fluid leaks from the pan due to improper torque during assembly.
Resolution: Ensure proper torque of 10 Nm (89 lb-in) is applied to all transmission pan bolts in a crisscross pattern. Inspect the pan mating surface for any damage and replace the pan gasket if any is suspected. Re-torque after the first drive cycle.
6L45 Transmission Whining Noise
2018-07-22Certain 2017-2019 Cadillac ATS models equipped with the 6L45 transmission have reported a whining noise that can be related to the valve body. Proper valve body torque is essential to correct this issue.
Resolution: Inspect the valve body and bolts. Ensure valve body bolts are torqued to 10 Nm (89 lb-in) in a crisscross pattern. If noise persists, the valve body may require replacement.
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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.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.