4x4 auto engaging
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New User
Joined: Aug 2003
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4x4 auto engaging
First time user and I wasn't able to find this subject matter posted anywhere, so here goes..
I've got a 96 B4000 4x4 with 112k miles that is most likely auto-engaging the 4x4. When I turn sharp, left or right, I hear a double clunk. Then, when traveling on smooth pavement there is a slight pulsation that is normally only felt when switching from 4x4 high to 2wd, but before disengaging the hubs. When backing up, I can feel the hubs disengaging. I brought it in to my mechanic and he said the auto hubs failing was a common problem, so he replaced them. Well, 2 days later and $800 poorer, it's happening again. I'm trying to figure out what would cause the hubs to engage, or partially engage, when turning sharply. I'm bringing it back in, but would like to know if anybody has had a similar experience.
Thanks.
I've got a 96 B4000 4x4 with 112k miles that is most likely auto-engaging the 4x4. When I turn sharp, left or right, I hear a double clunk. Then, when traveling on smooth pavement there is a slight pulsation that is normally only felt when switching from 4x4 high to 2wd, but before disengaging the hubs. When backing up, I can feel the hubs disengaging. I brought it in to my mechanic and he said the auto hubs failing was a common problem, so he replaced them. Well, 2 days later and $800 poorer, it's happening again. I'm trying to figure out what would cause the hubs to engage, or partially engage, when turning sharply. I'm bringing it back in, but would like to know if anybody has had a similar experience.
Thanks.
Thread Starter
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New User
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
4x4 auto engaging
All set now, but this info may be of help for others...
Turns out one of the u-joints was thoroughly rusted. When the wheels were turned at a certain angle, it would cause the front axle to bind and therefore partially engaging the hubs. At least that's what my mechanic thinks was happening. A new set of u-joints is a much cheaper option than a new set of hubs. Unfortunately, I had to find out the hard way.
Turns out one of the u-joints was thoroughly rusted. When the wheels were turned at a certain angle, it would cause the front axle to bind and therefore partially engaging the hubs. At least that's what my mechanic thinks was happening. A new set of u-joints is a much cheaper option than a new set of hubs. Unfortunately, I had to find out the hard way.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 943
Likes: 2
From: Randolph, NJ
4x4 auto engaging
I would find a new mechanic that will find the real problem instead of replacing parts until it solved. That's a real costly replacement for something that may not have been broken at all. He may be good at the actual work, but the diagnosis needs some attention.
I guess Ford should have added a line in your manual that talks about the automatic 4x4 control system. Who needs a smart AWD traction control system? Just rust your u-joints.
-Jim
I guess Ford should have added a line in your manual that talks about the automatic 4x4 control system. Who needs a smart AWD traction control system? Just rust your u-joints.
-Jim
Last edited by PSKSAM2; Sep 15, 2003 at 10:27 AM.
