Why Retorquing Your Lift Kit Bolts Matters
- Mike Hornbeck
- Sep 8
- 2 min read
When you add a lift kit to your van or RV, you’re not just bolting on parts — you’re changing the entire stance, capability, and feel of your ride. Savage installs every kit with precision, but here’s the truth: those bolts don’t stay put forever. Road miles, bumps, and heat cycles work things loose over time. That’s why you need to retorque lift kit — a small step that makes a huge difference in keeping your lift solid, safe, and Savage.
What Is Torque?
Torque is the twisting force that keeps your bolts tight. At Savage, we don’t “crank it until it feels right” — every bolt is torqued to manufacturer specs, double-checked, and signed off. It’s how we make sure your suspension leaves our shop exactly how it should.
Why Retorquing Still Matters
Even when bolts start out perfect, suspension hardware naturally settles. Vibration, flex, and daily driving all create micro-shifts. That’s why retorquing matters:
Keeps You Safe – Loose hardware = sketchy suspension.
Protects Your Investment – A lift kit is a serious upgrade; retorquing keeps it performing like new.
Industry Standard – Every quality shop and manufacturer calls for retorques.
When to Retorque Your Lift Kit
First Retorque (H3): At about 500 miles.
Second Retorque (H3): Around 2,000 miles.
Regular Check-Ins (H3): Once or twice a year, especially if you off-road, tow, or travel long distances.
Think of it like tightening your harness straps before a jump — it’s not optional, it’s essential.
How to Handle Retorques
DIY with a Torque Wrench – If you’ve got the tools, we’ll give you the exact specs.
Come Back to Savage – Stop by and we’ll retorque everything for you.
Set a Reminder – Use a mileage sticker (like an oil change reminder) so you don’t forget.
The Savage Bottom Line
Lift kits aren’t a “set it and forget it” upgrade. Torque is critical at install, and retorque keeps your kit locked in for the long haul. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it’s the difference between smooth adventures and expensive breakdowns.
Torque it. Retorque it. Stay Savage.
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