Need help on front wheel bearing torque specifications. My truck is 1992 4x4 converted to manual hub locks. Reading the ford manual, Haynes, and chitlin books and getting similar but conflicting info.

All Agree that you start with a preload of 50-60 ft lbs then spin for a time then
- you back off 1/2 turn then re-torque to 15ft lbs
Or
-you back off 1/4 turn and put on lock ring and turn into nearest key hole
Or
-retighten to 30-40ft lbs and then back off 1/4 turn

I like the first choice it feels right, but am I missing something?
In all instances where I'm told to back off 1/4 turn, there is no bearing load and hub will not pass the shake test. Why has no one else asked this question? How are you the rest of you torquing your front bearings? Why are the letters Lbs short for pounds?

 

You don't torque wheel bearings. Hand tighten.

 

Thank you Sean. That was what I chose to do in the end. Do you also fill the cavity between the two bearings with grease up?

 

Doesn't have to be all full but get some in there.