C2 spindle nut torque

[Mark F.]

Can anyone backup the correct torque figure for the front spindle nut on a disc brake C2. This is castle the nut that holds the hub on the spindle. My manual says 12 ft/lbs. for zero clearance. Then back off one flat to insert cotter pin. I thought that it was more than that?

[Michael W.]

Re: C2 spindle nut torque

The 12 ft/lb is temporarily applied to ensure that all components are seated properly. Experienced mechanics will spin the wheel while tightening the nut to ensure that no one roller will take too much load and possibly dent a race. Once the torque is applied, then backing the nut off to the next 'flat' will give an acceptable amount of clearance.

Tapered roller bearings should never be run at zero clearance.

[Mark F.]

Re: C2 spindle nut torque

Thanks Mike
So the 12ft-lbs is correct. I'll follow that procedure for installing it.
Mark

[Ridge K.]

Re: C2 spindle nut torque

The 12 ft/lb is temporarily applied to ensure that all components are seated properly. Experienced mechanics will spin the wheel while tightening the nut to ensure that no one roller will take too much load and possibly dent a race. Once the torque is applied, then backing the nut off to the next 'flat' will give an acceptable amount of clearance.

Tapered roller bearings should never be run at zero clearance.

While working at a dealership in the 1970s, I watched mechanics perform the procedure exactly as Mike has described, countless times. Never saw one work order for this issue, come back as a problem.

[Joe C.]

Re: C2 spindle nut torque

Torque wrench?
Spin drum and tighten nut with pump pliers. Back off to first castellation pin goes through..

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 spindle nut torque

The spindle has two perpendicular cotter pin holes, so you can move the nut in 1/12th turn increments, and at 20 threads per inch that's .0041", so there is only one position that achieves the proper .001-.005" clearance.

If you've never done this before, do it several times until you get the "feel" for the procedure.

If you grab the top and bottom of the tire and wiggle it you should feel a very slight play. If so tighten the nut another 1/12 until and install the cotter pin but do not spread it. Once you cannot feel any clearance, back off 1/12th turn, and check for play. If you can feel play spread the cotter pin.

I like to keep clearance between one and two thou. If you're at the high end you can dress a couple of thou off the washer on a flat surface with some solvent wetted 220-400 paper (assuming you have a mic to measure the washer thickness) then go another 1/12 turn.

You can use a 10-12" crescent wrench to "snug" the nut while spinning the tire to "seat" the bearings depending on how good a feel you have for torque values.

Duke