I have been doing it twice on new bolts. I would have to assume the machine shop does this also when they put in the bolts and resize the rods.

I have been doing it the same way for 25 years and just curious what everyone else is doing.

I don't think you need to do it twice if you are using high quality ARP or better rod bolts.

Jim,
ARP recommends torqueing them 3 times. Supposed to "equalize" the friction so you get a more accurate clamping force when using a torque wrench. I usually do them at least twice. I would think that if you are using a rod bolt stretch gauge to tighten them it would not matter how many times.

Bill Koustenis

I thought you should always use a stretch guage.

Thanks for the replys.

Ideally a stretch gage should be used. The specified torque numbers are developed by the fastener manufacturer so that the torque value will closely match the stretch values.