Posted by Paul (in NY) on Sunday, August 12, 2007 at 10:53:19 :
In Reply to: Steering Knuckle Bearing Torque posted by John S on Sunday, August 12, 2007 at 10:32:21 :
The torque specified in the Dodge Shop Manual is for knuckles using the top bushing. This torque is set with no tie rod attached nor felt grease seals on the rear of the hub. The hub must be free running. I am sure Dodge spent considerable engineering time to develope this torque spec. I sure would not go out and tell anyone to use less torque than the manufactuer states is required. The proper torque is established with the use of shims, per the shop manual.
Now, if your using a top bearing, the shop manual torque spec is no longer valid. Since this is NOT a Dodge design, there is no torque spec. However, we know a bearing must have a preload, but yet not enough to wipe out the bearing. Setting the preload is all a matter of feel, from experience. I would not ever state what I felt was the correct torque. Its all experience in setting up preload on bearings and its your truck. But the knuckles run so free that the torque will be on the Inch Pound Scale on a torque wrench.
I now have over 7K miles on my Carryall with the top bearing in the knuckle, with no issues whatsoever. If your going to go off road and seriously abuse, catch air, and otherwise, maybe you should stay with the top bushing. But probably safely said, for 99% of everyone here, the top bearing is the way to go.
Paul( waiting for paint to dry LOL
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