Help with 4x4 issues.

[Nate715]

I just recently got a 95 ford ranger 4x4. A buddy of mine who also has a ranger went mudding with me a few days ago. Now, keep in mind, we were in at most 4 inches of mud. Well, he got stuck and I drove over to help him. When I got back in my truck, It got stuck. I know I probably broke the most important rule about NEVER stopping in the mud but I figured 4 inches couldn't really get me stuck. Long story short, the truck wouldn't go into 4WD. It somehow was stuck in 2wd and simply wouldn't go into 4wd. Anyways, we called up a buddy of mine and he pulled us out. After I got the truck home, it still wouldn't go into 4WD. It makes the little clicking sound and the light comes on but its not in 4wd. Also, I keep hearing this popping/clicking sound coming from the front left wheel hub. I thought it may be the transfer case but idk. It was also "acting up" b4 we went mudding. And finally, I dont see how 4 inches of watery mud could ruin a trucks 4WD.

 

[ThatGuy]

Welcome to the wonderful world of auto hubs. Your truck has to move a few feet (all 4 wheels) for the hubs to lock in. Since you were already stuck, you couldn't get the hubs to lock. The popping sound means one of your hubs was already on its deathbed. Swap them out for manuals and problem solved.

 

[pillen140]

never take a truck 4wheeling that has known problems.... especially with the 4x4! and yes, get some manual hubs!

 

[Nate715]

So the problem is simply the auto locking hubs? And putting manual locking hubs on will fix it?

 

[pillen140]

So the problem is simply the auto locking hubs? And putting manual locking hubs on will fix it?

if everything you said is correct. sometimes you can clean them out real good and they will work again.... but those are junk! change em!

 

[pcollins]

Auto locking hubs arent worth fixing. manuals are so much better. instand 4 wheel when you need it.

 

[ThatGuy]

So the problem is simply the auto locking hubs? And putting manual locking hubs on will fix it?

You also have to get a hub "conversion" kit or whatever Warn calls their high dollar box of shit.

Go to any parts store and buy a spindle nut kit for a 66-96 Bronco (anywhere from $3-$14) instead of paying $60 or whatever Warn wants for the exact same thing. Take your broken auto hubs off and replace the crap thats on the spindle with the new nut, washer, nut and then your new manual hubs.
Problem fixed.

 

[Nhaz]

Since this warning hasn't been posted yet.

DO NOT turn the auto hubs Spindle nut to remove it UNTIL you have its Tiny lock key OUT from between the nut and the spindle. You may have to clean out the grease with a spray can of degreaser to clean out the crap and then use a magnet on the key and pull it out!

If you Do crank the auto hubs spindle nut before you get that key you are going to jam it in there good and tight and are going to have a bitch of a time getting it out.

 

[Nate715]

Thanks for the input guys, hopefully I'll have it converted to manual hubs soon.