Front axle shaft torque setting

1941 - 1945, MB, GPW Technical questions and discussions, regarding anything related to the WWII jeep.
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Finn42
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Location: Santa Rosa, CA

Front axle shaft torque setting

Post by Finn42 » Thu Aug 17, 2017 8:27 am

Shocked I have to ask this!! I have all the manuals and tm's. I can't find a single reference on the interwebs or the G regarding the torque setting on the front axle drive shaft nuts on a gpw/mb. Also, im not referring to the wheel bearing double nuts. Those are easy. This is the castellated nut for the front drive axles. Anybody seen the spec? Thanks.
1942 GPW
1942 T2 wla
1942 Bantam
1942 WC40
1941 Nash-kelvinator Ben hur
1943 Ben Hur
1944 Ben hur


Michael Browne
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Re: Front axle shaft torque setting

Post by Michael Browne » Thu Aug 17, 2017 4:40 pm

Hi Finn,

It isn't listed, even in the earlier TM's for MA & GP. Just assemble and install cotter pin.

Universal bolt tightening torque for that nut would be 110 to 140 foot pounds. Based on 3/4" UNC grade 5 thread (check size)

Go for the lower setting if threads are lubricated.

Check the back of the drive flange for wear on the face where the shaft shoulders lock onto the flange, if it is worn then the axle setting will be incorrect.

Good luck
Michael Browne
Heron Hill Motorpool

REAL jeeps have BAR GRILLES and FLAT FENDERS. The rest are imitations.

Finn42
Sergeant Major of the Gee
Sergeant Major of the Gee
Posts: 349
Joined: Thu Jan 06, 2005 5:40 pm
Location: Santa Rosa, CA

Re: Front axle shaft torque setting

Post by Finn42 » Thu Aug 17, 2017 6:32 pm

Hi thanks! What's even more crazy is I've seen a few people say just past hand tight. I figure this axle is under some working load, yours sounds spot on!
1942 GPW
1942 T2 wla
1942 Bantam
1942 WC40
1941 Nash-kelvinator Ben hur
1943 Ben Hur
1944 Ben hur


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