Front Hub Thrust Washer

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Dec 13, 2008 | 10:09 PM

Scruffy

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Senior User

Joined: Mar 2005

Posts: 152

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From: Darrington, WA

Front Hub Thrust Washer

So I just got done R&Ring my front hub bearing using Guzzle 92 post on servicing the hub bearings it was a breeze. His instructions were right on, however I wish he covered removing and replacing the main seal on the outer shaft. He suggested I purchase the seal installer OTC-6695 but I didn't have time to wait. I went to the local hardware store and I made one from 1 1/4" water pipe and the floor mount flange that is talked about on this site. It worked well. Now for my question: I did the drivers side first and it did not have a thrust washer (with the 4 grooves in it) I have manual locking hubs. Then when I did my passenger side it had a thrust washer. Me like a dumb *** was in a hurry and forgot to install it when I was reassembling my hub. Is it nessecary to have it in there with my manual locking hubs? Or can I run with out it? This is the 2nd time for bearing for me at 256,000, seems like they last for an average of 125,000 miles.

Dec 14, 2008 | 07:05 AM

SGnAZ

Posting Guru

Joined: Oct 2008

Posts: 1,825

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From: Az

I believe the washer you are talking about is to let the vacuum pulse of air through to the auto hubs.Manual hubs don't need the vacuum,so I think you're ok without it.Someone will correct me if I'm wrong.

Dec 14, 2008 | 07:15 AM

erebus

Junior User

Joined: Aug 2007

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I have the manual hubs and they were their. My drivers side hub was worn so bad that this washer was worn half way through. I replaced both incase it was a spacing issue. Does anyone know why ford made them out of plastic and not metal?
Jrod

2001 F350 Reg Cab,Auto,4X4 PSD

Dec 14, 2008 | 07:22 AM

mueckster

Lead Driver

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 8,298

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From: Damon (South East Texas)

With the thrust washer out, the manual hub will still function OK. I would put it back, asap, because the large axle seal, in the knuckle, may wear out quicker from the movement of the axle (in & out), when turning the wheels, without the thrust. The seal is basicly holding the axle from moving right now.

Dec 14, 2008 | 07:24 AM

NumberDummy

Ford Parts Specialist

Joined: Nov 2006

Posts: 88,826

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From: Simi Valley, CA

Quote:

Originally Posted by erebus

I have the manual hubs and they were their. My drivers side hub was worn so bad that this washer was worn half way through. I replaced both incase it was a spacing issue.

Does anyone know why ford made them out of plastic and not metal?

Sure.

For one thing, it's a hell of a lot cheaper, and parts made from plastic usually wear out faster.

What some of y'all may not know is, all the automakers are really in the partsbiz, where most of their profit comes from.

If parts don't wear out, none will be sold and there goes the profit.

Dec 14, 2008 | 07:25 AM

mueckster

Lead Driver

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 8,298

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From: Damon (South East Texas)

Quote:

Originally Posted by erebus

Probably, a cost saving issue. But with proper maintenance, it will last the life of the truck.
But, I also agree with you, Bill. If they didn't wear out, they couldn't sell more.

Dec 14, 2008 | 10:18 AM

SpringerPop

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Joined: Jan 2002

Posts: 17,988

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From: La La Land

Quote:

Originally Posted by NumberDummy

What some of y'all may not know is, all the automakers are really in the partsbiz, where most of their profit comes from.

If parts don't wear out, none will be sold and there goes the profit.

Bill's right, of course.

So, if we all did our preventive maintenance regularly, we'd be sure to drive Ford into bankruptcy?

Hmmmm, more money left in my pocket, less in Ford's. Yup, that's what I was aiming for.

But then there'll be no parts!

I didn't realize that I'M the root cause of this "bailout"!

Damn, I better let some stuff go.......

Looks like the ESOF's going to have to start sticking. Guzz has great instructions on rebuilding them auto-hubs, so I guess I should use 'em to take them apart and just throw some dirt in them.

Think of me as a patriot!

Ford should be thankful that everyone doesn't know about this site!

Pop