Manual Hubs

[Moese]

My 4x4 problem was fixed with a new motor, new hubs, and other piddley items.

My question is this...I now have manual hubs, can I keep them locked all winter so my 4 wheel drive is ready to go? What can happen if I do? My second question is this, do I need to back up to disengage after they're unlocked or can they just be unlocked?

 

[JamminG4Jim]

Moese,

I have Manual hubs on my '94 X and I manually lock them when I start a trail. They do not engage until you hit the "4X4" button on the dash. I've been told that I can keep them locked all the time even if I'm on the freeway, but i'm a little skiddish about doing that.

No, you do not have to back up anymore to disengage the hubs, as this is done manually by you. As soon as you hit the 4X4 button and the light goes out, they're disengaged.

Personally, what I do is look at the weather, road conditions etc, and Lock them if I think i'll need to use 4-by.....

Woodbury,eh? I'm in Oakdale! We should get together for a cup of coffee sometime!

Jim

 

[Brian1]

I would not leave them in all the time. If you do this you will see your gas milage drop, more tire wear and other component wear such as the u-joints. When the manual hubs are turned to lock, the axle will spin and will turn the driveshaft along with it. It may be harder to turn because the axle and u-joint will be turning and could bind. Also, you do not need to back up with the manual hubs just turn them to unlock them and you are set. If you wish you still can back-up but not necessary. If you feel you will need 4x4 go ahead and lock them in before but I would not leave them in all the time.