Vaccum line for hubs corroded on STERRING KNUCKLE

[hottpotato65]

okay i have removed what i could and am now looking at a corroded vacuum line-(not the rubber tubing) the hard line that is 4" long with a 90 degree bend at the top that comes out of the top of the steering knuckle(backside of hub assembly)-its ready to crumble to pieces!

now my questions
[1] is it replaceable?
[2] how do you replace it?
[3] is it a factory replacement part?
[4] do i have to replace steering knuckle?

[5]is it time to go to manual lockers? least expensive fix?
which lockers for my truck?
1999 Xlt 3.0 4 wheel ABS

post links please-thanks spud

thanks for every ones time

 

[triumphrider-1]

I'm not sure if you can replace just the tubing, or if its considered part of the knuckle, but a piece of brake tubing MIGHT fit.

I would assume that it was pressed in at the factory, but having never changed one I can't say for certain.

I would skip the manual lockers and do one of the following:

Add manual control to the stock hubs:
http://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...r_19982000_Ford_Ranger_Pulse_Vacuum_Hubs.html

Or, lock them in permanently:
http://www.therangerstation.com/Magazine/Apr04/offroad.htm

 

[hottpotato65]

awesome reply!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THAT LINK YOU POSTED WAS O SO SIMPLE--------I CANT WAIT TO TRY IT!
thanks for the trick tip
just have to send the hubs i ordered back to Baseline 4x4-hopefully they have not shipped yet

thanks again for the push button tip!
one question if you get dirt in there will it eat up the bearing assembly?

redundant question?
thanks -Spud

 

[triumphrider-1]

As long as you keep the black rubber gasket there I can't see it being much different. If you wanted to make sure dirt/dust/etc was kept out you could put a lightly oiled piece of foam over end of the hub before you put the lug nut cap back on.