Tightening Sequence

Upon both disassembly and re-assembly of various motorcycle components, most notably motorcycle engines, there is predetermined numerical or pattern sequence in which bolts should be removed or tightened. Failure to follow this sequence can result in component damage, specifically, warping or cracking the component. In the case of a cylinder head, the manufacturer often recommends following a criss-cross pattern in addition to a series of tightening stages. As a general rule of thumb, tighten larger diameter fasteners first and then the smaller ones.