How Tight Should the Spindle Nut be on a Trailer Hub

Published 01/07/2016

Question:

I recently purchased these drums and have everything installed. Took the trailer for a test drive everything seems fine. The drums seem to have a small amount of play on the bearings since the test drive is this normal after there run some or should I readjust the axle nut again?

asked by: Kevin T

Expert Reply:

When installing the castle nut on the end of the spindle, there is no specific torque rating but it sounds like your might be a little too loose.

The nut is ran down until there is no side to side play in the hub, and then backed off to the next notch in the castle nut so the tang washer or cotter pin can secure the nut. Over-tightening the castle nut can damage the bearings, races and spindle.

If you click on the video link I provided, and fast forward to the 4:45 minute mark, you can see the procedure.

expert reply by: Jameson C