Automatic hubs - replace or upgrade to manual?

[curtis73]

Am I reading the owner's manual correctly that 4x4 doesn't work in reverse with the automatic hubs? That's bogus. One of the things I do in the summer is use the front hitch on my B4000 to launch and pull boats at the lake. Not having 4x4 in reverse is just not cool for me.

Is there a better automatic hub that doesn't function that way, or should I just switch to manual hubs?

 

[adsm08]

No, they work in reverse. They stay locked in reverse because the axle shaft is still applying force to them. It's the action of turning the wheel backwards while the shaft sits still that unlocks the hub.

I'd still ditch them for manual units the first time one fails to lock in.

 

[curtis73]

I think they done did fail already.

I bought the truck cheap because the 4x4 didn't work. I crawled under it to find what appears to be a brand new (or reman) t-case and actuator motor. The 4x4 light comes on and I feel/hear the clunk, but no front wheel engagement. I also verified that the t-case is working because I put it in low range and it does go to low range... but still no front engagement. So unless the front pinion snapped, I'm guessing hubs.

 

[adsm08]

Get under it and spin the front drive shaft by hand. If you can spin it and one axle shaft keeps going, at least that hub has failed.

 

[curtis73]

So I suppose I should get a 37780 and the 32720 nut kit?

Does the Mile Marker 95-32720 nut kit do the same thing? They're half the price of the Warn.

 

[adsm08]

Yeah, they are pretty much the same thing.


I see you are in Harrisburg, when you are ready to do this, if you don't want to go buying all the special tools to do it PM me. I'm not too far, and I already have all the tools, and a decent shop to work in.

 

[lvwill]

I have an extra set of factory manual hubs in the garage. 40.00 plus shipping

 

[curtis73]

I have an extra set of factory manual hubs in the garage. 40.00 plus shipping

New? Used? If they're good, consider them sold. I'll PM you.

 

[curtis73]

Yeah, they are pretty much the same thing.


I see you are in Harrisburg, when you are ready to do this, if you don't want to go buying all the special tools to do it PM me. I'm not too far, and I already have all the tools, and a decent shop to work in.

Awesome, thanks. I'll PM you.