This is my first drum to disc brake swap. I picked up new races and wheel bearings and had them pressed in and packed, I mounted the newly surfaced rotors on the spindle. I was having problems getting the spindle nut all the way in to insert the cotter pin. On advice from a few folks I used a breaker bar to tighten, then loosen the nut a bit. The rotor won't budge even after I loosen it a bit, but I can get the cotter pin on.

Is this ok, or should I expect to be able to spin the rotor by hand? Will the bearings loosen up when I get it on the ground and driving around a bit?

I did try putting the old inner bearing back in and noticed the same thing, I couldn't move either side by hand.

I got a little over zealous on the right spindle in an attempt to press the bearing/race in a bit more, and ended up stripping it and the bolt, huge bummer. Now I have to find another spindle in a junk yard

When the bearing is properly adjusted you should be able to spin the rotor easily. If it will not turn or is stiff to turn there is something wrong. I don't know who gave you that piece of advice but I believe it's bad advice. If the races are properly installed and you have the correct hub and spindle then it will go together without the need to force anything.

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David Kight
'62 Valiant Signet, White
'98 Dodge Dakota
'06 Jeep Liberty

Growing older is unavoidable but growing up is strictly optional.

you should be able to spin the nut all the way on to where it needs to be. it sounds to me like you got the wrong seal. what parts do you have and are trying to assemble?

never use anything big to tighten the spindle nut. it only takes 5 ft. lbs. to properly torque that nut.

zedpapa

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1970 dodge dart w/225 /6 bored .040" over, holley 390cfm w/vac. sec., compcams 252s, clifford shorty headers w/2.5" exhaust w/flowmaster, f-body 11" front discs, aluminum A-833OD, 8 1/4 w/3.21 SG
soon to have 5 gears!!!

What year/model car? What size drum brakes, 9 or 10 inch? If 9 inch drum brake, the spindles have to be changed to conver to disc brakes.

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Charrlie_S
65 Valiant 100 2dr post 170 turbo
66 Valiant Signet 170 nitrous
64 Valiant Signet
64 Valiant 4dr 170
64 Valiant 4dr 225