servicing manual hubs

[Dads88]

Hi,
I will be doing the wheel bearings on my Dad's 88 Ranger XLT 4x4 and thought that it might be good to look at the manual hub and spindle bearing at the same time. I couldn't find much online, and only have a Haynes manual currently, so I was hoping to get some advice. Also, if anyone knows of a link to the information that would be great as well.

The exploded diagrams I have found do not really give me a good idea of how the manual hub is working or what parts it contains. Do these need serviced very often, or if it is easy to turn the knob and the axles engage/disengage should I just leave it alone.

On the spindle does the bearing and seal fit into the end of the spindle so that when I pull the spindle off of the steering knuckle these items come as well? Do I pack this bearing with the high temp wheel bearing grease? Is there a way to check this bearing without removing it?

The truck has probably never been driven off road and has only been in 4wd when we get ice and snow in the Portland area, which is not very often. I would like to do what should be done to keep this a dependable truck for my Dad, but don't want to mess with things that may not need it.

Thanks

 

[4x4junkie]

The hubs are pretty simple inside. The most that should be needed is maybe to disassemble & lube them once in awhile.
This page might help (shows disassembly of a D35 hub, but the D28 is essentially the same hub).

The spindles must be removed to get at the needle bearing for the axle shaft. If the bearing is in good condition, all that's needed is to pack it full of a good quality lithium-base high-temp wheel bearing grease.


Hope that helps