I think a better test might be to do it several times by hand and to see if you can duplicate the same clearance/end play each time. That would give a better indication if it is a good idea or not.

Using the Dial Indicator you can always get it correct.

Then there is the simple question is it an inprovment to make the adjustment without the Dial Indicator?

If you do not have a Dial Idicator or simply do not want to buy one or use one as a matter of choice; you do the best you can.

Just as an addition some cars (like the 1970 Toyota Corona) you actually pre-load the wheel Bearings. You turn the nut in untill it stops and then rotate the nut x degrees or in some cases x number of flats on the nut. Toyota also uses the same Bearings.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel