Originally Posted by
Racing Dan
Yes. Holding one end of the axle in a vice does makes it much easier. Imo a tiny bit of play at the rim, once mounted in the frame, is fine and prevents over tightening that is otherwise hard to gauge because of the large wheel diameter.
The only problem is that a little play at the rim means the bearings have no preload and wear quicker.
Wheel Bearing adjustment by Jobst Brandt