I am used to the push button on my 3500 Duramax back in the states, the F-250 I purchased on the island has push button and hub locks. Are the hub locks a backup to the push button or do I need to engage them manually when using the 4x4 function? What is the best way to test the system to make sure all is working properly?

Thanks!!!

 

Does it say Auto and Lock or lock and free on your hubs? If you have auto and lock the auto position should lock when engaging 4X4 from the dash switch. That said the auto locking system can have several issues so the hubs don't lock. You can turn the hubs to lock and then engage from the cab if all else is working. It is possible if your hubs only say locked and free that someone has replaced them with manual hubs because the auto lock didn't work, if so you can lock them in and then select 4X4 on the dash.

 

The hubs say Lock and Free. Thanks for the information.

 

If you see the dash light come on and also hear the "clunk" noise from the transfer case when shifting, then you know your electronics and T-case are working. If this does not engage the hubs, check to make sure the the vacuum lines are secured on top of each wheel spindle. This is a notorious issue, but takes 2 seconds to put the hose back on and clamp it or tape it. As long as the light comes on and you hear the transfer case shift (clunk), then you can turn the hubs manually and they should lock in. However, if you do not hear the t-case engage, then locking the hubs will not do anything because there is no power being sent to them.

Remember with this ESOF (electronic shift on the fly = Ford's name), if going to 4-Lo, you should put in 4-Hi first, then put the transmission in neutral while parked, then switch to 4-Lo and wait for it to engage, and then you can put it into gear. If you don't go through neutral in the trans it will not shift down to 4-Lo.