Do Heat Shield Fasteners Require a Specific Torque Value

Question:

I just bought this hitch from you, it came in yesterday, there is a provided torque setting for the hitch bolts, but during the hitch installation process we are asked to remove the exhaust heat shield on each side. When we reinstall the shield, what torque setting is appropriate? Thank you.

asked by: Stephen B

Expert Reply:

There is no specific torque value for re-attaching the heat shield during the installation process for Curt hitch # 13354 that fits your 2011 Acura MDX. The reason is that heat shields are generally fairly thin sheet metal. They do not need to be torqued down super tight since they are not bearing any load.

Just tighten the fasteners until they stop rotating and then give them another 1/4-turn to 1/2-turn. These fasteners will not need anywhere near the same force as the hitch installation hardware, which need 136-ft-lbs.

expert reply by: Adam R