Hub Replacement Question .?.?

[larryslamps]

I have an '87 K5 (64K miles) with the automatic locking hubs. I have heard
alot about them not being that durable. I don't do any extreme wheeling, not
that I don't want to, just not alot of time, just mud and snow driving in the winter and spring. This is my daily driver also. I am not a mechanic, but like most anything if I can take it apart or remove it , I can put it back together with ease. 1. Are manual locking hubs something I should look into &
2. What does replacing the automatic with manual involve? Do I have to remove the tire? Will this change the way I shift into 4 wheel drive? (i.e. can I just shift into 4 high and lock the hubs?) Thanks for the help.

 

[gmc4cw]

you do not need to take the tires off to change the locking hubs. You will need to get out of the truck to engage them when you want 4wd.

 

[87BrnRsd]

What he said. Also, the selectable hubs are stronger. If you do mud youll probably want them anyways because mud clogs up the internals of auto hubs and makes them not work.
-Harrison

 

[larryslamps]

Are there particular models specific for the 87 k5? Would like
to see if I could buy some on eBay if cheaper.

 

[larryslamps]

Also, what brand would you reccomend? MM, warn, ?

 

[resurrected_jimmy]

most everyone is going to recommend warn premium's, however, I have not had a problem with warn standard or MM hubs

 

[dyeager535]

If you've got wrecking yards around you, I've had good luck with the Spicers that were stock earlier on these trucks. And they were cheap.

 

[87BrnRsd]

most everyone is going to recommend warn premium's, however, I have not had a problem with warn standard or MM hubs

I second the warn premium's. I grenaded a warn standard in no time once i installed a front locker. That sucker blew up before could really give it hell.
-Harrison

 

[89K5guy]

Checkout jeeperz creeperz ebay store.I got a set of MM premiums for $60.They are in Michigan.

 

[MaxPF]

OK, I gotta ask: Does anyone know FOR SURE (not "I think...") where the MM hubs are made?