How To Install the Spindle Nut on a 12,000 Pound Dexter Axle

Updated 06/11/2025 | Published 05/28/2021

Question:

how much do i torque the spindle nut on a 12000 dexter axle? They have a washer, nut, lock ring and a jam nut

asked by: Cory O

Expert Reply:

I spoke to Dexter and they said there is a bit of a process for installing the spindle nut properly.

1. You will need to thread on the inner nut, rotate the hub, then tighten the nut to 100 foot pounds.
2. Loosen the nut to remove the torque, making sure not to rotate the hub.
3. Hand tighten the nut, then back it off 1/4 to 3/8 of a turn
4. Place the tang washer on the spindle and bend two tangs inward over the nut, This will keep the inner nut from turning while torqueing down the outer nut.
5. Install the outer nut and torque it to 100 to 175 foot pounds. Ensure that the inner nut does not turn while doing this. Bend two tangs from the tang washer over the outer nut to secure it.

Once all that is done you should end up with anywhere from .001 to .010 inches of play. This is also the recommended tolerance that Dexter suggested.

expert reply by: Lazer S

Joc

6/8/2025

I just bought a 40 foot gooseneck with 12,000 pound Dexter axles what type of bearings do I need for it? It is a 2023.

Lazer S.

6/9/2025

@Joc Good question Joc! It was a little hard to find on our site, so I pulled out our handy-dandy Dexter catalogue and found what you need. Inner Bearing # 3984 (race if you need it # 3920) Outer Bearing # 28682 (race if you need it # 28622) If you are also looking for a seal, we do have the Redline # 10-56 that has a 3.125" inner diameter and 4.500" outer diameter. This is specifically for the Dexter 12k axles. Was there anything else you are looking for?

Joc

6/9/2025

@LazerS what do you mean by if I need the race sir?

Lazer S.

6/10/2025

@Joc The race is what the bearing would sit in. They fit very tightly inside the hub and creates a surface for the bearing to ride on so it isn't wearing down the actual hub or drum. You are most likely good with the ones you have since it is fairly new, but it wouldn't hurt to check or even have a couple spares (of all parts), just in case. I am a firm believer in the 6 Ps of success (Proper Previous Planning Prevents Poor Performance).