when replacing front wheel bearings, and putting it back together, what are the torque specs for that nut? cant for the life of me remember the name for it.
It's called a castle nut, or spindle nut. It is very important that there be some clearance in the bearings. The spec is .002-.006. The procedure outlined in the chassis manual says to torque the spindle nut to 19 ft. lbs. while the wheel is turned one turn minimum. You are then supposed to back the nut off until the bearings are loose, and re-torque to 11 ft. lbs. If the cotter pin hole is in line with a slot, you are supposed to back the nut OFF 1 /12th of a turn and install the cotter pin. If the cotter pin hole is NOT in line with a slot, back off a minimum of 1/12th of a turn, a maximum of 1/6th of a turn and install the cotter pin. That is the procedure. What it means is that the nut should not even be hand tight to get those clearances. If you don't do it right, bearing life can be shortened, maybe considerably. When I do this, I do it by feel. IMO, anyone who owns one of our cars should have the chassis manual. They are readily available in several forms. If you really are "trying to learn", that would be an invaluable first purchase.
thanks, yea ive looked for manuals but the auto parts stores around me only have the spanish manual. i ordered the manual online but it hasnt gottn here yet. thanks for the specs, got it done and rides great!
The best manual is the original factory chassis manual. Like this one, http://www.ebay.com/itm/1970-BUICK-...ash=item1ea5e33a5a:g:zY4AAOSw37tWBLvA&vxp=mtr Or a reproduced one, http://www.ebay.com/itm/1970-Buick-...ash=item35bdd79fce:g:1cgAAOSwT6pVujN0&vxp=mtr They even make it on CD ROM, http://www.gearheadcafe.com/General...-Shop-Manuals-CDrom-Fisher-Body-Manuals-CDrom
