In 80 and 81 vans the rear axle nut torque was 253.
In late 81 VW increased the nut torque to 360 and fitted a stronger
bearing spacer sleeve, and fitted a nut with more slots for the cotter
pin so the nut would always be close to having a hole lined up for the
cotter pin. Over time the Bentley got updated to reflect the new spec
but not perfectly. There are other imperfections as well.

Mark

Frank Condelli wrote:
>          Question about the torque of the rear axle nut.  I have always been torquing this nut to 360 ft. lbs.  Saturday, my neighbour comes by and tells me in his Bentley Manual the torque is 253 lbs.  Yesterday he brings his book over here for a look see and yes indeed the torque listed in his book is 253 lbs.  We then did some investigating in both books and have found the following:
>
>          My Bentley Manual  VV91 - MAN 101 251 F  - 94 - 93 - 92 - 91  -  has the following values for the torque of the rear axle nut.
>                  Page 42.4 - 360 ft. lbs.
>                  Page 46.6 - 369 ft. lbs
>
>          My neighbours Bentley Manual - VV89 - MAN 101 251 E  -  92 - 91 - 90  -  has the following values for the torque of the rear axle nut
>                  Page 42.4 - 360 ft. lbs.
>                  Page 46.6 - 253 ft. lbs.
>
> So�. better check your Bentley boys & girls because there seems to be some errors.  I still believe the correct torque is 360 ft. lbs. until I am proven wrong.
>
>
> Cheers,
>
> Frank Condelli
> Almonte, Ontario, Canada
> '87 VW Westy, '00 Kawasaki 250 Sherpa, "98 Ducati 750 Monster & Lionel Trains (Collection for sale)
> Frank Condelli & Associates - Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Service in the Ottawa Valley
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>