switching to locking hubs??

[smprider112]

I have an 85 with the stock 10bolts and it still has the stock automatic hub engagement on it....Im wondering should I switch this out for manual hubs or is it reliable enough to keep running?? and if I should swap it out how hard is it to do??

 

[BlazerGuy]

Yep, throw those autos in the trash! Get some Warns and call it good.

 

[dremu]

The generally accepted wisdom is that the auto hubs SUCK. I've never seen a working set /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

You'll need an Allen wrench (hex head) and a set of snap ring pliers... but it's eeeeeeeeeeasy, you don't even need to take the wheels off or jack the truck up.

Also handy to have a dentist's pick, as I recall. If you've never done it and are only mechanically inclined enough to change your oil, figure an hour worst case. Once you've done it, it's a ten minute job the next time /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

-- A

 

[smprider112]

sweet....any locking hubs will work right?? these things are as good as gone then /forums/images/graemlins/peace.gif

 

[dyeager535]

I just grabbed some stock Spicers out of the bin at the local wrecking yard. $20 I think, have worked for YEARS with no problems, and they were already probably 20 years old when I got them.

 

[dremu]

Well "any will work" is a bit vague. You need a set that matches your particular axle -- Dana 44 internal hubs won't fit an external Dana 44, nor a Dana 60.

OTOH, internal D44 and Corporate 10-bolts use the same hubs. I'm a big fan of the Warn Premiums; cost a bit more, but more metal /forums/images/graemlins/thumb.gif Actually, when I bought my last set, 4WPW had the Premiums for less than the regular ones /forums/images/graemlins/dunno.gif so I was happy. I think I paid $75 or so to my door.

There's also Milemarker, and the OE Spicer ones... maybe one more brand that I'm forgetting.

-- A

 

[smprider112]

cool thanks a bunch guys!! /forums/images/graemlins/peace.gif

 

[cdh]

Bought Warn Premiums from Desert Rat for $80. Easy Install.