manual hubs?

[Infragate]

Hey all. Wondering what kind of things have happened to anyone who had warm manual hubs go on them. Presently im dealing with a grinding noise on my drivers side but only in 4x4. when i turn the wheels the sound gets worse and when i brake it gets worse, so im thinking maybe the hub is slipping giving me the grinding sound with increased load. Im going to swap sides to see if it changes anything but any comments or past experiences from others would really help. Thanks.

 

[glfredrick]

If that sound is not something simple like the main wheel bearings, or the brakes, I would next look at that small bearing BEHIND the spindle that supports the axle shaft. It is most likely toasted, and not the hubs. Once unlocked, the hubs shouldn't do anything, especially Warns.

I have had sevearl of these bearings go bad on me - especially when I play in the mud or water. They never get greased, and they are pretty small for what they have to do.

To get to them, pull the lock out hub, slide off the brake caliper, remove the rotor, then pull the spindle nuts. Use a mallet (not a hammer!) to give a sharp rap to the surface of the spindle, releasing it from its bond (they can get seated in there pretty tight sometimes), and pull the spindle. Check inside the back of the spindle for a needle bearing and seal. I would just replace it, no matter what it looks like. Not too much money, and easy to do. I use Amsoil synthetic grease on mine. Just slide everything back together and you are done - and I'll bet end of noise.