I am pretty new to 4x4's. It seems that the automatic locking hubs on my '95 F-150 are not locking. Are they fixable or do I just need to replace them? Should I just convert them to manual locking hubs or stick with the automatics if I need to replace them? Are they fairly simple to replace? Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

Ken

 

Take those factory auto hub and then pretend you're a MLB pitcher and throw them damned things as far and as hard as you can. They're worthless. Get a conversion kit to go to Warn manual hubs. They'll by far outlast your auto hubs. They're also guaranteed.

 

The first thing people usually do is toss the auto hubs. I had a full size bronco with manual hubs, I cleaned and repacked them so it can't be too hard. Just keep track of the order things come off and reverse the proceedure to install. A chilton's book would be usefull for their exploded parts breakdown pics. I got all my info at the library, freebee!

 

Powerstroke73,
What is included in the conversion? Is it just replacing the hubs with manual ones? Also, where is a good source to get them.
Thanks for your help.
Ken

 

In doing the conversion you're going to replace all the inner hub mechanisms such as the cams, gears, etc. I'd look at somewhere like 4wheelparts. They sell the conversion kits. They will come with everything you need as well as directions.

 

Changing from auto-locking hubs to manual locking is no sweat on a 95, F-150. Just purchase a set of manuals & read the installiation sheet that comes with the new hub-locks (I think you have to discard the snap-ring that is on your present axle shaft).

Converting Ranger, Explorer, F-250 or F350 is more complicated. You would need to change not only the hubs--but also the inner & outer wheel nuts & locks. Warn makes a conversion kit to convert auto-locks to manuals---way overpriced (kit contains inner & outer nuts & locks for both sides).

For anyone converting Ranger, Explorer, F250 or F350; go to your local Dana Distributor (usually found in the Yellow Pages under truck parts). Purchase these inner & outer nuts & locks for the conversion "individually". You will save BIG $$$$ versus
purchasing the Warn conversion kit.

 

Thanks everyone for the help. I'll be ordering the manual hubs tomorrow.
Ken