Wheel Bearing: Adjustments

Wheel Bearing Adjustment

Important:

^ Adjust the front wheel bearings correctly in order to ensure the front suspension functions properly.
^ The bearings must be a slip fit on the spindle.
^ Lubricate the bearings in order to ensure the bearings will creep.
^ The spindle nut must have a free-running fit on the spindle threads.

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle with safety stands.
2. Remove the wheel cover.






3. Remove the dust cap from the wheel hub.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

4. Remove the cotter pin.

Tighten
Tighten the wheel hub nut to 16 N.m (12 lb ft), while turning the wheel forward by hand. This will seat the bearings.

Important: Do not back the nut off more than 1/2 flat.

5. Adjust the nut to a finger tight position by hand. Then, back the nut off until the hole in the spindle aligns with a slot in the nut.
6. Install a new cotter pin.

6.1. Make sure the cotter pin ends do not interfere with the cap. Bend the ends of the cotter pin against the nut. Cut off any extra pin length.
6.2. Measure the endplay. Proper endplay is 0.03-0.13 mm (0.001-0.005 in).

7. Install the dust cap to the wheel hub.
8. Install the wheel cover.
9. Lower the vehicle.