'99 Ranger locking hubs popping off

[LoganP]

I have just recently got my first ranger, it's a '99 with the aftermarket locking hubs, so I never saw the process of originally installing them. When I got the truck, they weren't fully seated, and were kind of just sitting in the hub cap. If i press them into place, they'll pop back off while driving. When pressed in, they do work. Anyone have any ideas as to why, or how to get them to stay on? First picture is how I got the truck and how it looks after coming off, second is after pressing it into place, third is the same with the hub cap off, 4th is the hub off. This is my first 4x4 vehicle and I have no idea how its supposed to look.

 

[bobbywalter]

make the holes on the hub cap smaller....


or get one of these....they dont pop off as much

Dana 60 HP Super Kingpin Front Axle

The ECGS Dana 60 High Pinion Front Axle features the highest quality parts available on the market. Using the bulletproof Dana 60 High Pinion center section we build the housing to your specifications

eastcoastgearsupply.com

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

Personally, unless you really think you need locking hubs, I would swap to the “live” front axle. It’s wheel bearings and CV shafts and you’re done with hubs forever. You lose a little in fuel economy technically, but in 2000 they started the “live“ axle variant of your front axle. It resolved the weakest link, the hubs. Your next weakest link is either the CV shafts (which I’ve heard there are upgraded ones available), or the front driveshaft joints. I don’t really know yet. I do know the live axle style holds up to a 5.0 and AWD on the street just fine.