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2023-2024 250/300 Engine Brace Torque Value - Beware!

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15K views 6 replies 6 participants last post by  Moto137  
#1 ·
The owner's manual is confusing, so be careful when torquing the (upper) engine brace bolts/screws. They should be torqued to 25 N-m. The problem is that KTM does not list the "engine brace screws" any longer (I've owned several KTM & Husqvarna bikes, and those were listed in the past). They DO, however, list on the same page the "Engine Bracket Screw, M10, 60 Nm." DO NOT torque the upper engine brace screws to 60 Nm, or they will strip out the aluminum threads! (Ask me how I know...) They are now lumped into the generic "Remaining screws, chassis, M8" category, and should be torqued to 25 Nm.

As an experienced KTM/Husqvarna owner and "race Dad," I just wanted to save you all the same mistake that I made. It's easy to focus on the description and overlook the difference between M8 & M10 sizes. In fact, the replacement engine brace is on backorder, so I suspect that many others have already made the same mistake.

I wish that KTM would at least edit their online manual (they don't give you a paper manual anymore), and, ideally, stamp the "25 Nm" torque value on the engine brace like they do the upper & lower triple clamp torque values. Checking the torque values on these bolts, as well as many others, should be part of normal "race prep" routine maintenance.
 
#2 ·
I have had other bikes that have had manuals that have all the torque specs for a list of parts lumped together. I'm now making a list as I read thru the manual in my spare time, because they are so different than what I thought was typical. Mainly I want to be careful not to overtighten, which I found I would do, as I checked all the bolts with a ratchet. If anyone has already done this for the 2023 models please post.
 
#5 · (Edited)
True , KTM does not specify the "engine brace" torque of 25nm in the owners manual. But the o/p assumed that the "engine bracket" (60nm) spec was for the "engine brace". We are talking 2 different components . The SERVICE manual is far more procedure complete and accurate as far as assembly procedures and specs (engine brace assembly, chapter 18, page 169). So the moral of this story is , if your going to spend upwards $11K on a bike, do the right prioritizing thing, skip some of the trendy spendy new bike wallet bait bling and spend another $50 on the SERVICE manual so as to ensure you have the most accurate and complete data. Don't rely only on the owner's manual.
 
#7 ·
Rewriting my reply: I did the same thing yesterday to my 2023 KTM350 SX-F. I overtightened the bolt that goes into my left side motor mount into the cylinder and destroyed the threads. The manual says 44.3 ft/lb, or 60 Nm for the torque spec. Where did you find "25 Nm" for the motor mount bolts? Thank you!!