Front Wheel Bearing Preload
 

Well I'm done replacing the bearings in the hub and have the hub on the spindle but looking at mazda's approach to torquing and preloading the bearings seems a bit over complicated.

Can someone tell me the procedure they used to set and lock the spindle nut to the appropriate loading???

I've always cranked it down tight, and then let off just enough to barely begin feeling some play in the wheel. I agree the official methodology is a bit complicated. I've never had any problems with this.

Thanks I tightend it up by hand then gave it an 1/8 additional turn

The FSM method is quick and simple. You can find a pull scale for about $4 at Walmart, in the section where they sell fishing gear. Once you have that, the rest is easy.

I actually just had a discussion about this with a mechanic I know. He bolts on the wheel, then tightens it untill there's no more play, that's all. With new bearings it's good to give it a little extra, as they'll settle in and loosen up. Check them again in a week or two and re-adjust if necessary.

I just torque it to 16 pounds, and loosen it just enough so it turns easily.

Just tighten untill theres no play on the vertical plane (if you check horizontally, you might turn the wheels/steering rack)

If new bearings, give and extra 1/8th turn... make sure it spins smooth with no resistance and you're good