auto hub problems

[actbubba]

Hi,

I have a 93 ranger. Recently the left automatic hub starting making terrible grindng an popping noises. I bought a used one on ebay and put it on and it seemed to be working fine again. I only replaced the hub. I did not replace anything on the spindle. I think the cam is on the spindle? Was this the proper thing to do? Now the right one is popping and it will only go in 4 wheel drive if I am in reverse. When I try to go forward the hubs will not lock in. I can hear some ratcheting sounds but neither side engages. If I replace the other hub do you think this will fix my problem or are there other parts I should be replacing? I know switching to manual hubs is the way to go but I don't have the money right now. I just want a cheap fix for now. thanks for any help you can provide. I appreciate it if someone could explain how the these auto hubs work. When I replace the old one the three teeth on it seemed worn down

actbubba

 

[4x4junkie]

Unfortunately, a swap to manuals is really the only way to make it reliable.

Maybe try scoping out the junkyards to see if you can find a set of manual hubs there (you'll need the spindle locknuts to go with them too). D35 manual hubs are not real common though (everybody wants them, combined with the fact that 29 out of every 30 trucks has the autos stock).

If you still want to try to get the autos to work, then you'd be best off replacing the plastic cam assembly on the spindle at the same time you change the hub. No guarantees on how long they'll last though (easing gently into the throttle after changing directions from forward to reverse or back again can help them survive by reducing the severity of their reengagement if they decide to unlock for a moment).

Another option might be to take the hubs apart, and lock the splined engagement collars so that they're permanently engaged. You'll lose a MPG or so by doing that though.

Anyway hope that helps.

Welcome to the forum.

 

[mkpecor]

im going to the junk yard this weekend and ill see if they have any manual hubs for you. when i got mine there where 4 other explorers with them. if they have them just pay me what i paid for them + shipping. ill look in my shop to i think i still have my auto hubs layin around. you can have them. nothing wrong with them. pm me if you are interested. mike

 

[actbubba]

Thanks for your help. Can you tell me how I can tell if the plastic cam assembly or the hubs are damaged or worn?

Also, how do I lock splined engagement collars so they are permanently engaged. I could probably get by with that since I only use this truck for hunting. I probably don't put 5K miles/year on it.

I agree the stock auto hubs suck. They can't take any abuse.

thanks again.

 

[crbnunit]

Honestly, I wouldn't waste my time. Switch to manuals. They are pretty reliable. The autos are paperweights.

 

[actbubba]

I pulled the hubs off again this weekend to try and figure out what my problem is. The cams and hubs look good. I did notice that when grab the spindle both sides have a lot of slack in them. The inner hub bearings must be worn out. I wonder if that is my problem? Could that slack be causing the hubs to grind and pop? I am going to replace the bearings and seals this week.

 

[4x4junkie]

If you mean the axleshafts have some slop at the splined ends, that's normal.
The hub supports the outer end of the shaft, but if it's been removed...


If it's the u-joint end of the shaft that's sloppy, then you do have a problem (spindle needle bearing).



To lock the hubs in permanent, you'll need to take the retaining clip out from the inside and disassemble it (noting how things go together), then reassemble it so the internal splined locking collar is permanently engaged (probably by reversing the location of a spring inside there or something).

 

[actbubba]

Hey guys to update this I replaced the spindle needle bearing and seals and that got rid of lot of the slack. I took my auto hubs apart they had a lot of wear on the splines. I looked like the splines had not been engaging all the way and so the spline wore off on the ends. I got some used ones and cleaned them up real good. They were in good shape. I lube them with transmission fluid only...no grease. Is this OK? Put them on and they are working great. That was not my only problem. I also had to replace the transfer case and shift motor. I think maybe my hubs slipping messed up the transfer case or vice versa?? After I put the new hubs on and tested it the transfer case was slipping or would lock in 4HI. Putting the new case on fixed that but it would come out of 4 wheel drive now so i put another shift motor on. I am good to go now...finally.

thanks for your help....!