Locking hubs for 01 Explorer

[tims]

I have a 2001 Explorer Eddie Bower AWD and want to convert it to locking hubs. If I install the hub assembly from a PVH hub and replace the cv joint with one for the same PVH hub, am I still going to have problems because of the transfer case? If so, what transfer case would I need to install to solve any problems I might be creating? Thanks for your help.

 

[tgreene92]

you need to install a BW 4406 tcase and get the AVM manual hub conversion from rugged ridge, this will give you 4wd and locking hubs.

 

[tims]

Thanks, I'll do it.

 

[tims]

I forgot to ask...any issues with converting to a BW 4406? It has a 4404 in it now. I assume the mounts and drive lines will bolt up. The electrical is no problem. Anything I need to be aware of?
Thanks.

 

[tgreene92]

I forgot to ask...any issues with converting to a BW 4406? It has a 4404 in it now. I assume the mounts and drive lines will bolt up. The electrical is no problem. Anything I need to be aware of?
Thanks.

I dont really know as i have never done the swap, pretty sure its a straight swap. look around the forum and in the transmisson and tcase section as there is a ton of info on it.

 

[fordexplorer98]

I dont know about the 2002 and up (newer body style) explorers, but on my 98 xlt i did convert it over to manual lockouts. Mine has the 302/4r70w/bw4406. You would really want to switch over the transfer case, other wise its pointless. You will need to buy the AVM hubs for a ranger with the pv hubs, ranger hubs, and ranger haft shafts. But other wise it is bolt in.

 

[Glen4X4]

You need to look up the BW4406 swap, because you need different driveshafts, there really isn't a point in going with manual hubs on these trucks as the manual hubs are weak compared to the stock configuration unless of course you're trying to gain 1mpg or something. But anyway installing manual hubs while having the 4404 will not be good as the truck can drift forward while in park if the hubs are in the unlock position.

 

[fordexplorer98]

Ya, but for us awd guys, i think it help alot more then you think. 1, my front axel isnt spinning all the time, 2, if a half shaft breaks im not f*** (ranger hubs stays together), 3, front end is alot lighter (fun for us guys that have engine work done). I could go on but driving is believing! Beside it was either tryin do a 4.0 axle swap or AVM hubs.

 

[tims]

Thanks for all of your suggestions. I really appreciate it.
I think I will move forward with the swap. I would guess that the mileage saved would be more like 2 or 3 mpg, as I can feel the AWD bind up quite a bit. I would guess that there would be some savings in tire wear also. Anyone have some good numbers with that? Are the driveshafts needed for the Explorer going to be the same as for the Ranger? I may just have a driveline shop nearby make up what I need. Thanks again for the help.