Temporary hub fix

[Wildside]

My Explorer is getting closer and closer to being road-ready. Here's my next problem- The outer cover to one of my automatic hubs is missing. I plan to get a set of Warns soon (when funds permit), but I need to get some quick fix going now.

I believe I am correct in thinking that the outer cover is a part that is needed in order to engage 4 wheel drive, but my question is, is there any danger in running in 2 wheel drive without the cover?

Let me elaborate-

When this cover is removed, it exposes a quarter inch or so more of the lug nuts (whatever the thickness is of the cover). When I put my aftermarket steel rims on, the studs are now too long to allow me to tighten the rim. Well, my hubs are screwed up anyway (one side is missing the outer cover, the other side is cracked).

Here's what I figured- I have these wheel spacers that fit the lug pattern of the rim, and they're close to the thickness of the old hub's outer cover. So, I thought I'd remove the outer cover, put on the spacers, then bolt the rims on. The centers that came with the rims will clear whats left of the hub, and will keep dirt out. I know this will cause me to loose the ability to lock the front wheels (I already don't have the ability with the hubs damaged/missing anyway). At least this would allow me to tighten the rims and make the thing driveable.

Seems like it would work as a safe temporary setup until I get my new hubs. Anyone else think this will or won't work?

 

[shooter_1000]

Sure the spacers may let you tighten the wheel up, but by driving it like that you will still be causing some damage to the wheel bearings. The hub is what seals that up, so without it, dust will get in and ther will be a constant grinding action going on in the wheel bearings.

Hope this helps you decide whether or not to drive it without any hubs on.

 

[JDraper]

I agree with shooter. I think you'll do more damage. How about an easier solution? as a temporary fix to get it on the road, why not go out and buy a set of cheap steel lugnuts that have a through hole? Either that or head to the boneyard for a set. That way you can tighten everything down, and not worry about spacing or having the hubs offset.

 

[sink]

If the thing had bad hubs to begin with, I'm surprised those cheap Ford wheel bearings are OK to drive now. Are your sure they are already not toast? Did you clean and repack bearings already? If not, what shape is the grease you can see in?