grinding sound from front when in 4x4

[bnichols04]

we got some snow today and the 4x4 doesn't work. I push the button and the after some clicking the light comes on but the front axles aren't locked in. It just makes a grinding sound. When it does kick in it only stays in 4x4 for a second then a pop sound and back in 2wd. What would cause this?

 

[foxmx217]

i have a similar thing happening, and i took the hub apart and found that the auto cam on the hub was shredded, so im just getting some lockouts should do the trick.

 

[jrmustranger97]

If you have automatic locking hubs they are most definitely the culprit. Go get a set of Warn Manual Hubs.

 

[bnichols04]

i like to be able to just push the button and go and not have to get out and turn the hubs to lock them. I read somewhere that if i have grease on the plastic part of the cam in the hub it won't work right? If the cam is bad where would i be able to buy a new one?

 

[MAKG]

The thing that generally does in the plastic cam is turning with good traction in 4WD.

Manual hubs are FAR superior. Not the least of the benefits is an effective 2WD low range.

You can just lock them in and leave them that way if you think you might possibly need 4WD. Whether you use it or not.

 

[bnichols04]

where would i be able to buy a replacement cam? I don't use my 4x4 all the time just when we get enough snow. I know the manual hubs are way better than the crappy auto hubs but not practical for me.

 

[bnichols04]

a question on the manual hub conversion would i be able to have the hub in the lock mode and when i want 4x4 just push the button? I never had manual hubs so i don't know how they work

 

[foxmx217]

well i will tell you ive been on a hunt for the auto cam and 3 junkyards and numerous calls to dealers later, they are a pain in the ass to track down. The dealer will make you buy the whole hub assembly which can get pricey. my buddy whos a mechanic recommended the manual warn hubs, just cz theyre a potentially moey saving investment for the long run. you should take a look at your hubs though because if you just replace the auto cam, there may be more that could get damaged or broken. go with the manual hubs!

 

[Donnie strickland]

a question on the manual hub conversion would i be able to have the hub in the lock mode and when i want 4x4 just push the button? I never had manual hubs so i don't know how they work

Yes.

 

[97ranger4x4]

http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10081