If I read it right in the sticky, there's no real way to do anything about keeping the wheels centered without changing the wheels, too. Which would mean going to a Ford wheel or having Chevy wheels machined and using the proper Ford or GM hardware. Which could also mean changing the wheel studs for the proper diameter and thread pitch. Am I right?

 

I have extra centering rings I machined when I made some for my truck. They are for the front of a 4x4 dually. Without them, you must center the wheel by using conical style lug nuts first, then install the factory nuts after everything is tight. If interested, PM me. I can ship you a pair.

 

This works.

TSB 22-02-92

 

I read the thread in the sticky. The boss' boy got himself an 89 and asked if there was anything we could do when I told him how tight the lug nuts are supposed to be.

 

Swivel washer lugs only require 140ft-lbs torque.

 

Unless they're being asked to hold 1 ton wheels centered with clamping force, then it's 300-350 ft.-lbs.

Read the TSB

 

The tsb is refering to the torque of the stock fixed flange lug nuts. The only reason for the 300-350ft-lb value is to overcome the friction of the fixed flange nut. The actual clamp load seen at the stud is not reflective of the 300+ft-lb input. If it were the studs would be breaking as that's way over sae torque of even grade 10 5/8-18. When you get tired of torqueing to 300+ step into a set of swivel washer lugs. Makes life much easier, only requires 140ft-lbs--its stamped right on the lug. Have had mine for a couple years. No wheels have fallen off. Its what should have come oe. Its whats on 2ndgens, although they are 9/16.

 

My bad. Thanks for the information. I just looked in the SM and original torque is specified at 325 ft.-lbs. I thought the TSB significantly raised the torque, but I was wrong.

Where'd you get them?

 

No problem. I think I have a couple sets left. I can sell you one. Pm me if interested.

 

I found 5/8-18 washered lug nuts on trailer parts supplies dot com for 3 and a quarter a piece, chrome.
Also found on fayette trailer sales dot com for $4.50, black oxide finish.

Sounds like a set of rings and swivel washer lug nuts are the way to go.