Kia Rio: Head Bolt Torque Specifications
by TJ Hinton
Kia sets forth a specific tightening procedure for the head bolts of their 2014 Rio 1.6-liter engine. Assign a number to each bolt hole, starting at the passenger-side rear hole and proceeding clockwise around to the passenger-side front hole in the following order: 8, 6, 1, 3, 10, 7, 5, 2, 4, 9. Install and torque the head bolts, in numerical order, to 22 foot-pounds, using a foot-pound torque wrench and socket. Using a breaker bar and socket, tighten each bolt 90 degrees, and then another 90 degrees, with both stages following the pattern.
Additional Information
The head bolts deform during installation, and are single-use bolts. Use only new bolts to install the head, and never reuse bolts once you've tightened them. When you install the head gasket, apply a 1/8-inch dab of RTV sealant on the upper and lower surface of the new gasket at both of the front corners, then install the gasket before the RTV sets up, which is usually about 5 minutes, depending on conditions.
Writer Bio
TJ Hinton trained as an auto mechanic at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and then later graduated from MMI as a certified motorcycle mechanic . He's also worked for 20+ years in home construction, remodeling and repair. His articles appear on InternetAutoGuide.com and TopSpeed.com.
