New!!! Different Front axle Preload Question

[TroutRunner]

I believe I may have a new question regarding the front axle preload.

Performed the front axle rebuild. Followed the FSM to the letter (inches versus pounds and everything) for setting the preload. I even borrowed a good scale for the magic 6-12 lbs of preload (Thanks CDan).

The problem:

I can't get the stinking preload to drop below 20lbs. Most searches discuss people with trouble getting it high enough and get a wobble if it is too loose.

I took it all apart and get the same >20lbs preload with the hub just free sitting on the spindle. My bearings spun freely and didn't have any exterior problems that I could see prior to packing.

So...What do you think? I'm off to the store for a flange nut, hope someone can help me out. I'm really hoping I'm not retarded.

TR

 

[cruiserdan]

Are both sides the same?

 

[TroutRunner]

CDan,

Exactly the same both sides. Even "feel the same"

TR

ps I'm going to PM you my phone number.

 

[TroutRunner]

For those of you who are new, CDan is the man!

Talked it over and my problem was easily solved by putting a swipe of grease on the Dust Seal. Preload was achieved easily and now it is done.

I now have very intimate knowledge of my front axle and have no question that I will be able to take apart and rebuild it on the trail if needed.

TR

 

[Mickldo]

Just a quick one for all you learner wrenchers. Always put a smear of grease on every seal you install. Stops you wrecking brand new seals by running them dry.

 

[cruiserdan]

Just a quick one for all you learner wrenchers. Always put a smear of grease on every seal you install. Stops you wrecking brand new seals by running them dry.

A good tip that can be over-looked if one "goes by the book" because in some cases that step is not mentioned.

It is interesting that a dry dust seal lip and a dry wheel bearing seal lip would change the pre-load as much as it did and it was consistant on both sides of the truck.

 

[Rainy Day FZJ]

The grease also is needed on ALL seals, oil seals or any other seals. It keeps them from being "burned" or "torn" by the rotating part. Also keeps the wound spring that holds lip tight against the spinning part rom comming out. If that makes sense.

 

[RavenTai]

"Different Front axle Preload Question"

we are talkign abotu wheel berarings here correct? not trunion bearings in the knuckle correct?

the 62 manual has an extra step here where you measure the preload before tightening and then add the preload to you base drag, often wondered if that might fix bearigns that loosen up on 80 series. It seams to make more sense.

but definatly make sure the seal is lubed

 

[cruiserdan]

Wheel bearings.