Wheel Bearing: Adjustments

Wheel Bearing Adjustment - F-250, F-350

NOTICE: If bearings are adjusted too tightly, they will overheat and wear rapidly. An adjustment that is excessively loose can cause pounding and contribute to uneven tire wear, steering difficulties and inefficient brakes. Check bearing adjustment at regular inspection intervals.

NOTICE: New wheel seals must be installed when the hub is removed. A damaged or worn seal can permit bearing lubricant to reach the brake linings, resulting in ineffective brake operation and necessitating premature replacement of the linings.

1. Remove the wheel and tire. For additional information, refer to Wheels and Tires Removal and Replacement.

2. Remove the grease cap.





3. Remove the cotter pin and the wheel hub nut.
- Discard the cotter pin.





4. While rotating the wheel clockwise, tighten the wheel hub nut to 28 Nm (21 lb-ft) to seat the bearings.





5. Back off the wheel hub nut until loose (approximately 120 degrees to 180 degrees).





6. While rotating the wheel, tighten the wheel hub nut to 2 Nm (18 lb-in). Turning torque required to rotate the hub should be 2 Nm (18 lb-in).
- Install a new cotter pin.





7. Install the grease cap.





8. Install the wheel and tire. For additional information, refer to Wheels and Tires Removal and Replacement.