Front Axle Gear

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May 19, 2020 | 04:30 PM

Norsegod127

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Front Axle Gear

Dumb question, but does the gears in the front pumpkin rotate when in 2wd? I got a f2016 f250, the reason why i ask is i just changed drained and the gear oil and put on a new gasket and just made me wonder if these gears are always moving even when your not in 4wd.
Thanks!

May 19, 2020 | 04:36 PM

ford390gashog

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From: Brentwood,CA

No the front axle doesn't rotate, thats provided the system is functional and you don't have stuck hubs.

May 19, 2020 | 06:43 PM

skanj0

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Norsegod127

Tricky answer. As noted in the first response, if the transfer case is in 2wd mode there is no power to the front drive shaft and therefore no power through the front differential. If the lockout hubs are unlocked or in auto mode then the front tires are not locked into the axle stub shafts, and are not being powered. This being said, there is a certain amount of rotation that occurs within the front differential when underway in 2wd mode, which is caused by rotational friction in the front wheel hubs. If you put a Go Pro or other small camera under the front end of the truck and take a drive on the highway you will likely see the front driveshaft slowly rotating.

May 19, 2020 | 07:47 PM

senix

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From: Frederick, MD

Front diff should not need any service for 100K miles. If does turn some as mentioned but not really.

May 19, 2020 | 08:49 PM

WWR

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This is also why old school SOP was to lock the hubs once a year "just to lube everything." In truth I don't think this practice matters much (although in humid climates, eh MAYBE) but there's also ZERO harm in it and it would be difficult to argue it's harmful or a BAD idea. Also not bad to get those front u-joints spinning dynamically and move that grease around a bit.