Date: Sun, 9 Sep 2012 22:45:06 -0400
Reply-To: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: What Determines Steering Knuckle Replacement?
In-Reply-To: <CAB2Rwfg7rNJ9e_tZ12fOcO48xPv=Fo+C7GLW+krcX+1aHcgPmw@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
The bearing inner races are a slip fit on the spindle shaft so at some point
they will spin. The spin should be minimal and the lubricant should prevent
wear. If the bearings are sloppy the spindle could be knurled or just a few
small punch marks can tighten it up. A Loctite bearing retaining compound
could be used to secure the bearings from turning but be careful installing
and adjusting. You won't be able to adjust later. If the spindle is badly
worn or grooved Loctite "Quick Metal" can restore up to .050".
Dennis
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
neil n
Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2012 7:44 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: What Determines Steering Knuckle Replacement?
Hi all.
Still working on my '88. PO set driver side front bearings too tight;
couldn't move washer even if levering blade at rotor collar.
Here's what I see (can take picture):
- mild heat marks on inner and outer bearing rollers and what are likely
"spin" marks on bearing inner race.
- spindle outer seat: minor scoring. I can *just* feel some ridges with my
thumb nail. They appear/feel very minor.
- spindle inner seat: has marks but I can't feel anything.
P. 40.12 "check for scoring or ridges...... - replace seal ring or
steering knuckle if necessary" This seems vague as I don't have enough
experience with these parts.
Does "if necessary" mean excessive ridges, play between bearing race and
spindle?
My spare '85 knuckle seats look better (shinier, more uniform appearance).
This is my only point of reference.
New outer bearing fits and I don't feel any play. Measuring both, I see
19.98 mm (which doesn't make sense as technically, the bearing
wouldn't fit. I blame my calipers. < grin > ) Old bearings and
seats are the same measurement as well.
If I keep these knuckles, and install all parts correctly, is there a pretty
good chance the inner race of each bearing will stay put and not spin? Is
there anything else the slight spindle damage could cause?
Much thanks,
Neil.
--
Neil n
65 kb image Myford Ready For Assembly http://tinyurl.com/64sx4rp
'88 Slate Blue Westy to be named.
'81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco" http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/
Vanagon VAG Gas I4/VR Swap Google Group:
http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engine
s
