I'm aware this came up not all that long ago, but this situation is a
bit unusual.
First, how tight is too tight? When I installed the new
bearings/races/seals I tightened the nut so that I could just get a very
thin feeler gauge behind the washer. The wheel spun very nicely and
there was absolutely no apparent play in the wheel.
Now I have a lot of play, but have been able to lessen it 'somewhat'.
Background: Don't ask why, but I installed Milano/GTV6 front stub axles
on my '75 Alfetta along with hubs/rotors from a '79 Alfetta. I had the
outer section of the hub machined to take the larger bearing.
Why it has loosened up so much I have no idea. I'm guessing, measuring
from the outer edge of the tire, I had an 1/8" play and it is now down
to roughly 1/16" with the hub's nut quite tight. Spinning the rotor, it
will make a half of a revolution. However, with the tire installed, it
spins nicely.
Russ, other race folks (not that the Alfetta is a race car), but during
tech inspection, how much play 'fails' a car? Any play at all - or
should it actually have some (though obviously a minimal amount)? My
thinking is if one can get a feeler gauge, no matter how thin, there has
to be some top/bottom play. At the same time, if the nut is too tight,
it could heat up the bearings. I'll be replacing the outer bearings, in
case they were damaged by being driven with the nut so loose - though
they seem fine.
My theory is that when machined, the 'stop' for the bearing race was
machined too far in and the tapered bearing couldn't then be properly
'set'. I've added a 1.5 mm spacer behind the race and believe I'm on the
right track - though might try a slightly thicker one to see if it helps
even more since I don't think the hub nut can be turned in any farther.
To repeat again, how tight is too tight?
These bearings are SKF's. Is there a 'better' brand? I bought all four
bearings from an Alfa supplier.
(About two years ago I installed all new quality ball joints, tie rod
ends, and bushings).
Biba
Irwindale, CA USA
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