Wheel Debate

From the Volvo FAQ's

Torque Specs on Alloy & Steel Wheels. [Query:] Is there any difference in
wheel nut torque specs between steel and alloy wheels? [Response:] There is
no difference in the torque requirements for steel or alloy wheels in
Volvos. The difference is the studs. The 240s and earlier should be torqued
to 85 ft-lbs. The 700/900 should be torqued to 66 ft-lbs, the 850 should be
torqued to 81 ft-lbs. [Editor's note: I use anti-seize on each stud to ease
nut removal when changing to or from snow tires.]
My Question is: For the 700/900 series isn't 66 ft-lbs too little? My
mechanic says to go for 85 ft-lbs as he would be worry about road safety at
66 ft-lbs.

 

Why would it be too little? I've been running 65 ft-lbs for years, never
had a problem. It's what was printed on the sticker on the factory rims
on mine.

 

I don't know, just trying to clear up the confusion. Thanks for the reply
though. Is there any particular reason why it is or should be 66 ft-lbs on
the 700/900 series?

 

It's is a fairly standard torque figure for wheel nuts. The confusion arises
because it is quoted as 83 Nm which is 65 lbsft. My caravan has exactly the
same wheel nut torque figure. Perhaps they made it with Volvo towing in
mind?

All the best, Peter.

700/900/90 Register Keeper,
Volvo Owners Club (UK).