If there is no noise don't worry about that small amount of play. The high
torque is necessary to clamp the complete assembly together against the
inner ball bearing. If not torqued sufficiently the splined hub will move
slightly under driving stresses and acceleration loads. The movement will
wear the hub and splines causing them to come loose. Eventually the splines
will fail and you will lose driving ability. When tightening this nut, after
reaching torque if you need to turn it to align the cotter pin hole you
tighten further, never loosen.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
WILLIAM WITZ
Sent: Tuesday, January 22, 2013 6:48 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Rear Whell Bearings Adjustment

So I do not remember the last time I replaced my rear wheel bearings, so I
jacked up the van and checked the play at 12:00 and 6:00 on the wheel with a
Dialindicator. The play was  .007 not a lot  but is your advice on this
play.
Their is no noise at the bearings at this time. My Bentley says 360 Ft.
lbs.why so much? Bentley also says after you torque to 360 and move nut to
next slot. I assume this means back off nut?
Thanks, Bill Witz, Tiico with  A2 fuel rail on 84 Westy happy with my inline
4 had it for 7 years hopefully 15 more.