ok so my front wheel has play and is making a clunk/knock sound. My question is if my bearings are worn out, would tightening the axle nut remove the play? thanks

 

2wd or 4x4? Some more info about your truck will make it easier for us to help you!

 

duh, 2wd

 

4x4s have axle nuts too.

But to answer your question... tightening up that nut will remove the play. The correct fix or better option would be to take it apart and replace both bearings and the seal.

 

i asked cuz i tightened it to the point the roter got tight and still had the play, so i was thinking even with that nut tight the bearings inner sleeve is moving relative the outer sleeve. guess ill bite the bullet and buy bearings, is it dumb to leave the oringinal races in?

 

As Fullscale stated, take it apart and find out the extent of the damage.

How mechanical are you ?

Chances the wheel bearings are shot and spindle maybe.
Check the spindle for wear mark, gouges and any bluing of the surface, I would think if there is a lot of noise and the bearing are moving around that much there will be wear on the shaft.
Once you determine the condition of the spindle (shaft) then buy the new parts.
Make sure to pack the bearings once you get them, pre-packed bearing are not always fully packed.
Do you know how to pack wheel bearings ?
Do you know how to retighten the spindle nut ?

Find out what is needed first, but new parts and get it done.

 

ok Ill disassemble and post a pic of the spindle if it looks wonky thanks

 

booyah thanks guys