4x4 still not clear to me

[fero]

I am still not clear on the 4x4 engagement on '92 explorer. How does it work exactly. When you press the button is the solenoid energized on the transfer case? what activates the auto lock on the wheels and by what means( electrical or vacuum), and which of these elements you elimanate if you convert auto hubs into manual ones?
sorry guys, just want to be clear on the whole procees.
Thanks fero

 

[mrboyle]

When you push the button on the dash you send power to a control panel located in the rear of the vehicle. From there the signal is sent to the shift motor which engages the transfer case. Once engaged the transfer case spins the front driveshaft. The power from the driveshaft is transfered to the front differential, which in turn spins the front axles. The auto hubs have a cam in them that when rotated (by the axle) engages the front hubs. As long as there is power being transfered to the front drive axle the hubs will remain locked. After taking the vehicle out of 4wd (and backing up) the hubs release. When converting to a manual hub you are just eliminating the auto hubs and the wheel bearing spindle nuts.

 

[fero]

4x4

Thank You MR. BOYLE. It is perfectly clear to me now. Now I can identify the problem with my possible new purchase. Thanks again.
Fero