'59 1/2 ton Apache - Thrust Bearings

[hsdropout]

Anybody know if the thrust bearing replacement pieces go back together dry? or should a layer of grease be applied? I am assuming it eventually gets grease through the king pin zerks.
I have the originals so I can go back and see how the parts are layered however the kit came with 4 ultra thin shims, not sure where they are to go. There is also a fairly thick spacer (3/16", not in photo), not sure if it might be for earlier models? There is only room between steering knuckles for axle and thrust bearing
Thanks.

[Wrenchbender Ret]

They receive grease from the fittings but you need to put a small amount in as a prelube. The thin shim goes on top of the axle to remove any clearance in the bearing & axle. I always put a thin shim in & start the kingpin into the axle a little ways. Then try to squeezethe trust brg. in. If it fit's in a little snug fine. If it is loose pull the pin out & put in a thicker shim. If it won't go in readily, remove the shim. I'm not sure about the thick washer but it is probably for taking up the slack if it originaly had the roller brg. in it.

[LDO]

I know this is an old thread but I'm going to be rebuilding my front axle on the 57 soon and thought I would ask.

The only components of the thrust bearing are the two 'end caps' and the brass colored washers show in the pic above correct?

The loose silver shims and the one in the package are just for shimming the spindle?

Any specific order for placing these?

[Gator Alum]

Those are the only parts to the thrust bearings. The weight is going to be on the brass side. Let me see if I can get a picture of my setup for you.

The shims are to go on the top of the axle mad below the spindle to ensure a tight fit of the spindle on the axle.
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[Gator Alum]

I'm pretty sure the big side is cup facing up, the brass side touches that cup and small one goes on top of that. At least that is how I did mine.

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[hsdropout]

I believe the bearing cup is to be oriented so big side is facing down so that water can not enter. Maybe not a big issue. There is a youtube video of king pin assembly into a straight axle; might be helpful; it is an older f*rd axle but the theory is same.

[Gator Alum]

You know I was thinking about that on my way to work this morning. According to Speedway Instructions
"Install the kingpin up through lower arm of spindle approximately 1 inch. Install the thrust washer on kingpin with large cup washer up. Some applications may require a spacer on top of the thrust washer."

I followed their instructions but I see where you're coming from hsdropout