Well this was weird...

Today I did the spring oil change on my '89 Formula and noticed that the front wheel bearings were noticably loose. Popped off the dust caps, pulled the cotters and tightened them up until I could no longer feel any play. Put the cotters back in and test drove. Rode fine, no noises and such.

Now, when I did the wheel bearings and brakes over the winter (car had been on stands for a couple years prior) it had been a while since I worked on that style of disc brake, so I followed the chilton to the letter (which is, i conceed, unusual for me). Don't recall their exact proceedure for tightening, but I do remember following the book. Any ideas why they loosened up on me? Maybe the races didn't fully seat during the initial torque-down


All I know is they still spin freely and quietly, so it appears no damage done!

 

There needs to be end play in the front wheel bearings. As they heat up and expand it takes up the play. By starting with none the bearings will be over loaded at running temperature.

Adjust for no play (with cold bearings) then back off the nut until the first cotter pin hole lines up (there are two in the spindle). If you have a dial indicator shoot for 2 - 5 thou end play on cold bearings.

RBob.

 

Ahhh shoot. Alright gonna have to correct that! So far they have felt great, but only have put a few miles on.