On my 1998 2wd, I have a spindle nut (front wheel)
that is cross threaded. I have many taps and dies,. but nothing that big. And that is quite a fine thread anyway. Does anybody know the thread size the pitch (threads per inch)??? I'd like to order one and have it in my box.

 

Many tap and die sets have a set of tpi checkers. Look like a feeler gauge set but with teeth on the edge.

Find out the tpi, and get an appropriate thread file.

I have also used a set of mini jewelers files in a pinch, to clean up a thread.

Other than that, if you can find a parts listing for the nut, the details may show the thread size.

 

Surprisingly, I could not find a 2WD front spindle/hub nut on RockAuto.

O'Reillys didn't show one specifically either, but they do show two sizes in Dorman spindle nuts with no position and drive location - they didn't say 4WD or rear floater, so perhaps they are for 2WD front spindles. One is 7/8"-14 thread and the other is 3/4"-16. Since there was limited info on these, they may not be correct. If you have a tap in either of those sizes, lay it on any undamaged part of the spindle threads and check for a match. If you have the TPI gauge u2slow mentioned, match the TPI to the above possibilities and that will give you the size.

NAPA shows a front spindle nut in 1-1/8"-18, but doesn't mention if it's for 2WD or 4WD. They are also asking an arm and leg for it.

Matco Tools has individual rethreader dies available on their website so you don't have to chase down a tool truck (who may not want to deal with someone not at a shop). You can probably find an individual size elsewhere on the web that might be cheaper. No disrespect to u2slow - but if it was me, I wouldn't want to remove metal in critical threads. The rethreading die straightens the damaged thread (vs removing material) and that's the approach I recommend, if possible. However, if the thread is so damaged that a rethreading die can't get past the crossthreaded section, then you may have to file.

 

I just got out my old snap on thread checker.. It is showing me 16 tpi,..I was expecting 20.???? And the diameter of the spindle is .870,. Which means it is a 7/8 inch cut a little small (the nut normally threads on really easy,..so it should be a little small). At least that is now I see it. I have not seen ANYPLACE on any chatboard with a suggestion that it is a 7/8-16 . So I am quite bugged.

 

I ordered a 7/8-16 die. I read that it was used by GM on and off for a few decades.
I have no idea how long I am going to be waiting to get it. This is not a die you can just buy at the tool store. I have three 7/8-14 taps and one die,..14 must be the most common threading. The only thing I use them for is to clean up my reloading equipment. Most of that stuff has a 7/8-14 thread.

 

I found a thread that seems to confirm the 7/8-16 thread size. https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...er-mia-323863/

 

My 7/8 - 16 die got here. For the record, that is the correct thread for 1998 24v 2wd front wheel spindle. It worked and I'm happy. If you do this,. I should point out that I had to take care to start the die....seemed a bit like it wanted to crossthread a little too. Probably due to the slot cut through the spindle threads by the mfgr. Ok,. I tightened it snug and then backed off a tenth of a turn or so (it is instantly only hand tight if you back it off at all) until I could insert the cotter pin so it would be in the middle.

 

Thanks for confirming the thread pattern - I'm glad you got the situation resolved!