QuestionDo you know what the torque spec is on a 1996 Ford Explorer spindle nut? I believe a mechanic has tightened this too much which in turn caused my bearings to burn out and melted the spindle nut to the spindle. Thank you!
AnswerHi Diane,
Too loose can cause that as well as too tight.
If it is four wheel drive, there are other things to consider also.
Generally speaking, about as tight as you can get it with a pair of pliers would be tight enough.
The book answer is:
1. Raise and support vehicle.
2. Loosen adjusting nut 3/4 turn, and back the brake pads off so the wheel turns freely.
3. While rotating wheel, tighten nut to 17 to 25 Ft Lbs.to seat bearings.
4. Loosen nut 1/2 turn, then tighten to 18 to 20 INCH Pounds. (Hmmmm about like a pair of pliers).
5. Align retainer with hole and install cotter pin, then cap.
6. Pump the brake pedal a few times to remove the slack you created when backing off the pads earlier.
Let me know if yours is a four wheel drive...it is a little different, but not a lot tighter.
Van
