Abstract: A novel axle nut system is provided on the spindle ends of an axle which mounts a wheel assembly that includes tapered roller bearings. The axle nut system of the present invention includes an adjustment nut, a washer and a retainer member. The adjustment nut is threaded into position having torque applied to it in a controlled manner to achieve specific preload bearing pressure against the outer bearings. Thereafter, the washer is placed into contact with the nut and is rotationally fixed with respect to the axle. Next, the threaded retainer member is rotated into contact with the washer. With the threaded retainer member placed on the axle to prevent any outward movement of either the wheel assembly components or the adjustment nut and washer, the adjustment nut is rotated in the opposite direction by which it was installed until it jams forcibly against the washer and thus, the threaded retainer member.

Abstract: The spindle ends of an axle of conventional design are provided with either right hand or left hand threads to receive respective axle nuts in combination with special lock ring fasteners. A nut of standard configuration used for tapered roller bearing adjustment and hereafter described as the adjustment nut is threaded into position having torque applied to it in a controlled manner to achieve specific preload bearing pressure against the inner race of the outer wheel bearing through a washer whose internal tab projects into the spindle keyway after which a threaded lock ring is rotated into contact with the adjustment nut. Having achieved positive positioning of the threaded lock ring in bearing contact with the adjustment nut, a retainer is installed to secure the lock ring in position on the threads of the axle spindle preventing further rotational movement.