Does Trailer Spindle Not Have Torque Spec

Updated 07/19/2019 | Published 07/18/2019

Question:

I have installed the bearing buddy seal kit and the end caps. My concern is the only thing the holds the stainless steel seal cup that the seal rides on is the O ring that is held in place by the pressure from the inner bearing, The instructions say to torque the axle nut to the recommended torque. The only torque talked about is the standard tighten the nut a spin the wheel and then back off the the nut to the next available slot for the cotter pin. I dont want to have the nut too tight and burn up the bearings but I want to apply enough pressure to make sure the stainless steel sleeve the seal rides on will not spin or leak by grease. I do have a torque wrench would there be a specific spec for the nut. I have a single axle trailer with hydraulic drum brakes. the kit I purchased from you is Spindle Grease Seal Set for 25580 Inner Bearing and 2.441 Bearing Buddy Item # BB60011 Help long time customer

asked by: John B

Helpful Expert Reply:

You are correct when you mentioned that there isn't a set torque spec for a trailer spindle nut. When installing the nut you simply want to tighten it until you no longer get any play in the hub and then back it off to the next notch. Tightening the nut too much, again like you mentioned, can lead to excessive heat inside the hub.

With all of this in mind, you do not need to worry about the stainless steel ring coming loose. It will be held firmly in place by the hub, seal, and inner bearing when the castle nut is tightened appropriately.

expert reply by: Chris R