How Tight Should Spindle Nut be on Trailer Hub

Updated 03/01/2019 | Published 02/28/2019

Question:

What is the proper torque spec for a 6000 lb axle bearing nut on a E-Z lube axle. Im replacing all four 5200 lb brake assemblies including the drums and going up to 6000 lb Dexter brakes and drums. Im a commercial truck mechanic so I understand the ins and outs of the mechanical swap I just need a proper torque spec. Thank you.

asked by: Rob

Helpful Expert Reply:

When our installers replace a trailer hub, there isn't a set torque spec used when tightening the spindle nut. The hub is placed on the spindle, making sure the inner and outer bearings are correctly seated. The spindle nut is then run down until you start feeling resistance. At that point, spin the hub and check for end play (wobble). If the hub still seems a bit loose, you can run the nut down a bit more.

As you'll see in the video I've linked to, tightening the nut is something you'll do by feel, not by a particular torque rating.

expert reply by: Jameson C