2004 Ranger - swapped to manual lock hubs

[rwwilli09]

No matter how I hold my tongue I cannot get the driver's side snap-ring/retainer ring to lock on to the CV. I have the CV all the way into the wheel bearing/hub, but for all that is holy in this world the plastic ring will not seat.

Has anyone had any experience with this? Is there a steel snap ring that will go in its' place?

Any advice other than suck it up buttercup?

 

[Curious Hound]

Have you tried cussing at it?

Sorry. I haven't dealt with that style of front end yet. Don't know other than to recommend taking a break to clear your head. Then go back at it with renewed patience and persistance.

 

[rwwilli09]

Updating for anyone ever searching this-

Found when I replaced the axle seal, I did not install in deep enough into the hub. This would not allow the CV to push all the way in the hub assembly. Removed and refitted the axle seal and was able to install the snap ring completely.

 

[gw33gp]

Let us know if you find the cost and labor worth doing the change. I really wanted to do it but after evaluating it and talking to a friend that did it, I decided not to do it.

The main thing that held me back was having to go to smaller front wheel bearings. That may not have been as much of an issue as I thought because I am still running the original front bearings with over 278K miles on them. Then again, if I went to smaller bearings, I may have had to change them once or more.

I still think gas mileage would be slightly improved but the biggest advantage for me would be being able to put it in low range without having the front wheels locked in. That would be very helpful when backing a trailer, especially up hill.

Glad you were able to resolve your problem.