Body to Frame bolt torque

[ppeters914]

There are six 1/2-20 and eight 3/8-24 bolts to attach the body to the frame. Four of the 1/2 go into threads in the frame itself, the other two into nuts. All the 3/8 go into u-clips w/ tack welded nuts.

I couldn't find any torque specifications, so rather than "snug" or "star torque" or "calibrated elbow," I referred to my handy dandy Partsmaster torque chart. Apparently, 40 ft-lbs is too much for the 3/8 as I stripped the threads in one of the clips. 40 ft-lbs is the recommended value for a Grade 8 lubricated bolt for 70-percent clamp load. Luckily, it's one I can get to, so I'm going to try using a Dremel to cut the tack welds to remove the nut, then use a new nut and lock washer. Wish me luck.

So, to possibly help someone else avoid this, does anyone know what torque these bolts should be?

Thanks.

[Bwk2000]

I would be interested in knowing as well if anyone has a definitive answer. I always thought it was about 12 ft*lbs. (not sure where I remember that from though).