What are the rear suspension torque specs for a 1986 MK2 Golf?

Per the VW factory workshop manual (ELSA), the 1986 MK2 Golf rear suspension torque specifications are: Key values include: Coil spring retainer to rear shock absorber nut at 15 Nm; Coil spring retainer to rear shock absorber nut at 70 Nm; Rear axle beam pivot bolt bolt and self-locking nut at 60 Nm. Full per-engine breakdown on this page.

What torque wrench setting do I need for MK2 Golf rear suspension?

Torque wrench settings vary by component. Key values include: Coil spring retainer to rear shock absorber nut at 15 Nm; Coil spring retainer to rear shock absorber nut at 70 Nm; Rear axle beam pivot bolt bolt and self-locking nut at 60 Nm. Full per-engine breakdown on this page. Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the tightening sequence specified in the VW workshop manual.

Are MK2 Golf rear suspension torque values the same for all engine codes?

Not always. The 1986 MK2 Golf has 12 engine variants (KR, PL, HK, HZ, MF, ME, JK, SB, RV, PF, GX, EV). Some rear suspension torque values differ between engines — check the per-engine column on this page for your specific engine code.

Where do these MK2 Golf torque specifications come from?

Every torque value on this page is sourced directly from the Volkswagen Golf Mk2 Factory Workshop Manual (ELSA). Type 19 Specialists cross-references these against known errata and technical service bulletins.

Do I need to use stretch bolts for MK2 Golf rear suspension?

Some rear suspension fasteners on the MK2 Golf are torque-to-yield (stretch) bolts requiring a torque + angle sequence. These are indicated in the specifications table with a degree symbol (°) after the initial Nm value. Stretch bolts must not be reused.

Model year 1986 · Rear Suspension

Rear Suspension

Rear axle beam, rear shock mounts, rear stub axle.

4 components 5 distinct torque values 12 engines applicable

Source VW Golf Mk2 Factory Workshop Manual (ELSA) Last updated 17 June 2026

This page lists factory torque specifications for rear suspension on the 1986 Volkswagen Golf Mk2. It covers 4 components across 12 engine variants (KR, PL, HK, HZ, MF, ME, JK, SB, RV, PF, GX, EV), with 5 distinct torque values sourced from the VW ELSA factory workshop manual. All values are given in Newton metres (Nm) with imperial equivalents where applicable.

Rear Suspension

Coil spring retainer to rear shock absorber nut
- 15 Nm (11 ft·lb) All 12 engines
- 70 Nm (52 ft·lb) All 12 engines
Rear axle beam pivot bolt bolt and self-locking nut
- 60 Nm (44 ft·lb) All 12 engines
Rear axle mounting bracket to body collar bolt
- 85 Nm (63 ft·lb) All 12 engines
Rear brake backing plate and stub axle to axle beam
- 60 Nm (44 ft·lb) All 12 engines