rear axle nut torque confusion
 

Les Andrews states two different torque values in the red book. One is 100 ft pounds and the back page states 115. I searched the archives and found a thread where many guys insist on 220 ft pounds. WTH?

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

I do mine at 100ftlb

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

Use common sense, you want it good & tight, but, don't strip the threads!
Bill W.

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

I torque the nut to 90-95 foot pounds, then I continue enough to line up the cotter key hole. I have had no problems doing it this way.

Be sure to use a original axel castle nut 5/8-18, they are special hardened, this way you will not screw up the threads on the axel.

Ron

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

Thanks guys. Last time I did it I went with 110 foot pounds....just double checking.

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

Hey Bob,
Which ever final torque number that you settled on, make sure that you recheck it from time/time and re-torque to desired number.
You might be surprised at what you find.

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

Remember, the taper provides MOST of the grip & the key's there, just in "CASE"--
Once stripped a key, found a rusty, big NAIL, beside the road. Drove it in, broke it off, snugged the nut & drove home GENTLY!
Bill Shadetree

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

We use 100 lbs. and check regularly.

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

And you gotta have the proper hardened washer under that nut.

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

The 200 is a later V8 thing, NOT Model A. I shoot for 100-120 range and recheck a couple of times after the car has been driven.

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

The thread I located you were involved in. All I could think of it must be a v-8 thing. Then I rechecked ol Les and two different values given LOL

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

Yup...right on my friend. I'm still fighting steering issues. LOOOOOONG story. I thought I would try rotating the tires and discovered the L. rear washer spinning with my finger tips. Pulled the cotter, nut and washer and the damn drum all but fell of in my hand. Years ago I had tried to make my own axle shim and decided to hell with it at least on the R. side. I thought I had removed the one on the L. side but obviously didn't. It had totally disintegrated. Soooo I ordered up proper shims and will R and R the wheel bearing and seal.

Re: rear axle nut torque confusion
 

I'd think 200lbs would strip the threads.