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Hello
Starting off let me say it’s been a while since I have posted anything. Having got that out of the way let’s begin. I have a 1978 F-250 supercab that has a full time 4wd (np203) transfer case and a Dana 60 front axle. My front axle does not have lock outs on it and for the build I am planing I would like to have locking hubs. So my question is, what do I need to do to convert my axle from automatic? I plan to put a 12 valve and more or less have a driver that may occasionally do a little farm work.
I have attached a picture of the style hub that is on my truck
Any input will be appreciated.
well hmmm those silver dog dish things come off. maybe pryed or forced or someway persuaded off. under there is going to be a snap ring or 2 and some splined components and an axle stub shaft. You need allof that stuff removed and purchase a new set of dana 60 (ford/dodge/chevy) lockout hubs.could be mile marker, warn, dana spicer, whatever your preference. While your there do your homework and service the entire front end. This means spindle seal, spindle bearing, wheel bearings and seals, the double nut bearing lock mechanism, it is timely and takessome patience and a special socket and some other special tools like snap ring pliers and torque wrenches, but get a manual, if you don't understand it post pictures here and you will be assisted.
the axle isn't full time 4wd, the transfer case is. You can't just swap out the lock for a locking hub, you need a kit to eliminate the differential in the rear of the NP-203 transfer case.
I meant to say that I have never seen a D60 without lock in/out hubs. Unless it is a drive flange set up.
They are out there but just like the others of the day, not too popular. The only difference is a 30 spline slug where the lockin should be, everything else is the same, snap ring locations, splines, etc. The only bad thing is everything is always worn out.
Thanks everyone for the input. I do wish the truck had a different axle combination but 4wd supercabs are getting harder to come by. Or maybe the ones in my price range are getting hard to find haha. Next question is do you guys recommend any brands or kits for converting it. I do plan on fully rebuilding the front end no. No point in on doing a job half way.
Thanks again everyone!
my brother owned one of those fora while. I would recommend anp205 and front lockouts. I have the EXACT 1978-1979 regcab f250 4x4 dana 60 frt/rear, c6 400 ac 2 bbl2150 410 gears we both drove the same farm roads samecountry 2lanes tothe sametowns and bought gas at the same place. mine was heavier and had a bumper and winch, his full time got 3-4 mpg less than my np205 got. All I can figure is that extra gear train drag. Mine sat higher as well. his was just turning more gear and I guess it killed the mpg. we blamed fan clutches and timing and plugs and exhaust, he changed the exhaust, changed timing. Just never got to a reasonable mpg.
