Cv axle lock nut?

[Jackthewack]

Ok so changing my cv shafts I noticed the new nut went on further than the hole for the cotter pin. I wanted to put a washer or something to space it out to get the pin in but couldn't find one. Would it be ok to put the old nut on and use it as a lock nut? Thought it might give it more security but idk I tried it on and the dust cover fits back on with no issues. Thanks in advance

 

[LittleCaesar]

Yes, you shouldn't have any problems. I have used the OEM axle nut on Oreilly's CVs for years.

 

[rideexileex]

Just torque the nut to specified torque (around 150 IIRC?) and you'll be fine... That cotter pin is there only if the nut ever backs off.

 

[habanero]

I've got 174 ft lbs in my notes for the axle nut.

 

[12BYotaFan]

Ok so changing my cv shafts I noticed the new nut went on further than the hole for the cotter pin. I wanted to put a washer or something to space it out to get the pin in but couldn't find one. Would it be ok to put the old nut on and use it as a lock nut? Thought it might give it more security but idk I tried it on and the dust cover fits back on with no issues. Thanks in advance

You should have had a castle nut that slips on over the axle nut, and is held in place by the cotter pin. The castle but prevents the cv axle nut from backing off.

CV axle nut torque spec is 174 ft-lbs for proper pre tension in the wheel bearing.

 

[Jackthewack]

I did have the thin "cap" like castle nut but there was a good bit of room between the actual castle nut and the "cap" so I didn't trust it. I did not torque it but I did tighten it with my impact and then tighten the old nut on top

 

[12BYotaFan]

I did have the thin "cap" like castle nut but there was a good bit of room between the actual castle nut and the "cap" so I didn't trust it. I did not torque it but I did tighten it with my impact and then tighten the old nut on top

Ok, you need to torque it properly.

The bearing is slightly cone shaped. The torque soec, 174 ft-lb on the axle nut, sets the proper preload on the bearing.

Too tight, and the bearing is pulled too tightly into its race, reducing lifespan.

Too loose and the bearing floats loose in yhe wind in the race.

Neither is good for the bearing, or you as the driver.

Th castle nut snd cotter pin are sufficient. Thats what theyre there for.. If you are super worried, a dab or three of red loctite when torquing the cv nut into place sill keep it from coming loose.