So I was working on my truck today trying to button up the engine install but had to wait on parts so I decided to work on the front end while I wait. My plan was to give everything a good greasing because all four corners are on jack stands, adjust brakes, and re-torque the wheel bearings. Pulled out the trusted torque wrench and got to work. Passenger side went well, but not so lucky on the drivers side. Started torqueing the castle nut and just about when I was expecting a click I felt the nut give. Backed it back off to look things over and I find the threads on the spindle are bad. I don't know how I did not notice this before because I have had the whole front end apart about a year ago. Anyway the threads are beyond repair by any means that I am familiar with. I have no choice except finding a replacement spindle. My question is this: I had the king pins replaced about a year ago, they have less than 500 miles on them. The truck is a 53 3100 and if I remember right they are not pressed in. Will I be able to salvage the king pin and bushings to put into the replacement spindle? Some times it seems we take one step forward and two backwards on these old trucks, but I try not to compline. I would much rather find bad threads on a spindle while the truck is in my shop instead on the highway as my wheel passes me up.
