Auto Locking hub squeaking...

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Sep 28, 2021 | 06:44 PM

ViperGreg

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Auto Locking hub squeaking...

Hello all,

I have a 94 F150 4x4 with the auto-locking hubs. The drivers side is emitting a high-pitched squeaking sound when driving. From what I have read, everyone just converts these to manual hubs instead of fixing these automatic hubs. If I switch to the manual hubs, would that eliminate the squeaking issue?

Thanks!

Sep 29, 2021 | 07:28 AM

Birdhunter1

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Joined: Aug 2004

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From: Murphysboro, IL

Possibly, but from what I remember there isn't much in the hub that would squeak. I more often found that squeak noises came out of the brakes somehow and once in a while the bearing might be shot and start squeaking. There is also a bearing inside the spindle that can wear out and squeal when the hubs are engaged, if the hubs aren't engaged that bearing doesn't see any movement on it.

Sep 29, 2021 | 10:45 AM

Mudsport96

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From: Chillicothe

Quote:

Originally Posted by Birdhunter1

There is also a bearing inside the spindle that can wear out and squeal when the hubs are engaged, if the hubs aren't engaged that bearing doesn't see any movement on it.

My bet is that the hub is engaged and the shaft has been turning. And this bearing is what he is hearing.
The autos were a good concept on paper, but not in practice. Mine let me down exactly once before being replaced.

Sep 29, 2021 | 01:07 PM

Encho

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From: Caracas, Venezuela

Hello, in my signature you'll find the replacement procedure, and also in that thread, there are pictures of the various bearings that could be causing the noise you're hearing.

Sep 29, 2021 | 01:10 PM

ViperGreg

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Thanks for the replies. I'll look through the write-up and also verify that the hub is disengaged from the axle. I just don't want to install manual hubs and then still have the same squeaking issue!

Sep 29, 2021 | 01:20 PM

Birdhunter1

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Joined: Aug 2004

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From: Murphysboro, IL

Quote:

Originally Posted by ViperGreg

Thanks for the replies. I'll look through the write-up and also verify that the hub is disengaged from the axle. I just don't want to install manual hubs and then still have the same squeaking issue!

Swapping out the auto hub for the manual locking hubs is as simple as getting a set and swapping them, Warn and Mile Markers hubs are quite popular, the Warn Standard hubs for that axle are about $100-120, very durable and I think the kit comes with everything you need to swap them, might have to change the spindle nuts. At the same time its not a bad idea to repack the bearings and replace the seals AND swap out that bearing inside of the spindle. Most often times the originals rust and self destruct because they just don't get used or greased.

Sep 29, 2021 | 05:59 PM

My4Fordtrucks

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Joined: Jun 2015

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Quote:

Originally Posted by ViperGreg

Thanks for the replies. I'll look through the write-up and also verify that the hub is disengaged from the axle. I just don't want to install manual hubs and then still have the same squeaking issue!

Remove the auto hubs then drive the truck to see if the noise is still there.