94 Mustang 3.8, what is the proper head bolt torque??

[chubbygoatboy]

I am reassembling a 94 Mustang 3.8. I have a document from Ford showing a series of three torques plus a back off, then retorque, plus 180 degrees. This is what I have done, with new heads and bolts. It feels like they are going to break!! And just today, I found the same info on Mitchells, exactly the same, EXCEPT, an additional 85-95 degrees, NOT 180 degrees.... WHAT is the latest, greatest recommendation? Anyone that knows for sure, please reply to this post. THANKS

[neatofrito1618]

105 Ft lbs

[chubbygoatboy]

Thanks for the reply! So now, forget the extra turning, just go to 105 and quit?

[351wStang]

I know with 302/351w motors there are 2 different length head bolts. I think the short ones go 105 and the long ones go 115. I dont think you need the extra 90* turn or whatever but you will need to go over them several times. Also use motor oil or some kind of lube on the bolts. Without lube they will not torque accurately. Just be sure you go over them 3-4 times in the correct pattern to make sure they are all torqued like they should be.If you have even 1 bolt that still tightens some on the 4th pass then torque them all until no more bolts tighten. Hope this isnt confusing. Good luck!

[chubbygoatboy]

Thanks again for the reply! I am still a little worried about the torque on the 6 cyl. 3.8.......

[scoopy03]

Originally Posted by chubbygoatboy

Thanks again for the reply! I am still a little worried about the torque on the 6 cyl. 3.8.......

105 ft-lbs is pretty high they use you should be fine.