My friend has a 53 Chevy 1 ton truck with a box hoist. I am replacing the front wheel bearings. He bought the original style ball bearings and races. Are these adjusted different then tapered roller bearings and if so, how do I adjust them? Thanks for your help!! John Montana
From my 48-51 shop manual (assuming 53 is the same) 1. With wheel and tire removed -Torque spindle nut to 33 ft lbs. 2.check location of nut slot with cotter pin hole - if lined up (either verticle or horizontal) back off 1/6 to next hole and install cotter pin 3. if not lined up back off 1/12 to 1/6 turn to line up the second next slot with the hole in the spindle. I gather from these instructions that the nut should not be backed off more than 1/6 turn to align the slot with the hole. 4.Install wheels and tires Your friend would be wise to invest in a shop manual for about $20. Hope this helps you out.
Actually ? If you want to improve the suspension ? Replace those parts that are worn out !! That includes, Springs ( front and rear), Ball Joints, ( if so equipped), tie-rod ends, idler arm and Shocks. The stance of a vehicle has little to do with how well the suspension works if everything is worn out. dv
