Automatic vs. Manual lock outs.

[1994_4x4]

Owners of Ford Rangers convert from automatic to manual lock outs like clockwork. I know they aren't reliable like manual lock outs. But is there other reasons? Like alignment?

I'm asking because I'm getting ready to rebuild the entire front end. Ball joints, tie rods, brakes, u-joints, etc.

 

[88_Eddie]

dependability

 

[4.0B2]

IF you are rarely gonna use your 4wd... i wouldn't be scared of auto hubs. i've had them for 6 years (?). i've roasted a couple, but they are also d28 hubs. so.....
when i've roasted them was me abusing them sligtly, on more than just basic fields and trails.

if you plan on being in rocks or hammering down on them in mud or climbing hills, go manuals. they are a little stouter.

 

[1994_4x4]

IF you are rarely gonna use your 4wd... i wouldn't be scared of auto hubs. i've had them for 6 years (?). i've roasted a couple, but they are also d28 hubs. so.....
when i've roasted them was me abusing them sligtly, on more than just basic fields and trails.

if you plan on being in rocks or hammering down on them in mud or climbing hills, go manuals. they are a little stouter.

I plan on running stock tires & rims. Off road & Snow are my needs for 4x4.

 

[Bennybooster]

I broke the autos first or second time ever offroading with stock tires, and I used to be a LOT easier on my truck back then

 

[4.0B2]

doing normal stuff (granted i don't get snow in MS) i never hurt a d28 hub on 30's

 

[hondaxr650]

Manuals will last forever, autos will fail at some point. Price is another consideration. I just priced out an auto hub for a '97 this morning and it's $385 just for ONE hub! The customer's cost for both manual hubs, hub nut conversion kit and labor to install was less than that. Seems like a no brainer to me. I switched to manuals so i know they are gonna work when I need them to.

 

[4.0B2]

Manuals will last forever, autos will fail at some point. Price is another consideration. I just priced out an auto hub for a '97 this morning and it's $385 just for ONE hub! The customer's cost for both manual hubs, hub nut conversion kit and labor to install was less than that. Seems like a no brainer to me. I switched to manuals so i know they are gonna work when I need them to.

this depends on IF his axle has good autos or not....
if he doesn't have to replace them, why bother at the moment?

 

[hondaxr650]

this depends on IF his axle has good autos or not....
if he doesn't have to replace them, why bother at the moment?

You're right, if they are working, maybe he can leave them alone but you don't need to abuse them for them to quit working when you need them most. In my experience, it's the grease getting gummed up in them due to mileage that makes them quit. You just never know when you're gonna get stuck somewhere.

 

[Hahnsb2]

Another benefit of manuals is that you can use low range in 2wd.

 

[4.0B2]

Another benefit of manuals is that you can use low range in 2wd.

this is handy.


i would personally change them IF he can find a good deal on them..
i got manuals for my d35. but the autos have been very kind to me, as long as i've been kind to them.

don't change them if you don't need to (for basic stuff they hold up fine, or have for me at least) that's all i'm saying.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Manuals will last forever, autos will fail at some point. Price is another consideration. I just priced out an auto hub for a '97 this morning and it's $385 just for ONE hub! The customer's cost for both manual hubs, hub nut conversion kit and labor to install was less than that. Seems like a no brainer to me. I switched to manuals so i know they are gonna work when I need them to.

$9.99/pair for Warns at the local JY with the conversion stuff. They are for D35's but they didn't ask/care what they fit.

I have 2.5 sets at that price, don't have an axle they will fit on but I got the hubs and a couple spares for when I do.

Automatics are nice when they work so you don't have to wade around in crap if you get caught but with a little planning I haven't cussed at my factory manual hubs yet.

 

[4.0B2]

$9.99/pair for Warns at the local JY with the conversion stuff. They are for D35's but they didn't ask/care what they fit.

I have 2.5 sets at that price, don't have an axle they will fit on but I got the hubs and a couple spares for when I do.

Automatics are nice when they work so you don't have to wade around in crap if you get caught but with a little planning I haven't cussed at my factory manual hubs yet.

which warns are they?
wanna sell a set for double your money plus shipping?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

which warns are they?
wanna sell a set for double your money plus shipping?

I am assuming the regular replacement ones.

I am going to wait until I get an axle and see how many work before I part company with them.

 

[4.0B2]

I am assuming the regular replacement ones.

I am going to wait until I get an axle and see how many work before I part company with them.

hahaha just thought i'd try... i have a set. just wanted a replacement set also.