bmw front spindle nut

2002 BMW 325I
71,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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DOGWOODFARMS
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bmw repair manual says to tighten front spindle nut to 200lbs. When I did that, with new hub/bearing, the grease squeezed out and the hub not so easy to turn. WHY is it necessary to have so much torque on that spindle nut?
Dec 30, 2010 at 2:22 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
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Not to sound like a smart mouth, but it needs to at 200lbs/ft because it can. The bearing/hub is an angular contact type bearing and it requires the bearing races to be tight together or the bearing will be compromised. How much grease are you talking about?
Dec 30, 2010 at 3:13 PM
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DOGWOODFARMS
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not much grease came out, I know the bearings are pre-lubed. The car only has 71000 miles on it. And what is "angular" contact type bearings? the originals were ball type.
Dec 30, 2010 at 6:13 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Ball type yes, but the races are what is referred to as angular contact, wikipedia has an explanation that is sure to satisfy your question. Some grease is acceptable, just satisfying my curiosity mate.
Dec 30, 2010 at 8:37 PM
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