Newbie with 4x4 maintainance question
New User
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 14
Likes: 0
From: Point Reyes Station
Newbie with 4x4 maintainance question
Hello everybody. I'd like to introduce myself. My name is Tom, I'm a 32 year old paver (roads driveways etc.) and I'm buying a 1987 Bronco II next week. She's in great shape, has the 2.9 and a 5spd and manual hubs. I probably don't need 4x4 but I couldn't pass up such a good deal. There arn't many places to go offroading where I live (unless a rancher gives permission) so I was wondering if in order to keep everything lubricated and in good working condition, would it be wise to say once a month put it in 4H with the hubs UNlocked and drive slow for a mile or two or would this be a serious no no? I'm afraid I know next to nothing about propper maintainance of 4x4s but I want to learn (no matter how ignorant I may appear) so that my soon to be Bronco will last me many long years.
Thankyou all for viewing this
Thankyou all for viewing this
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 13,873
Likes: 3
From: Atlanta GA
Newbie with 4x4 maintainance question
> once a month put it in 4H with the hubs UNlocked
No! Just lock the hubs and drive around in 2H and pop it into 4H and 4L in a wet parking lot with a puddle or two that will provide enough slippage.
The biggest hurdle in owning one is making sure you have a spare TFI module and tools in the truck to change it. That is the only weak point in the truck (IMO). 4x4 system with manual hubs is pretty reliable and sturdy.
One thing you might want to invest in is a hub tool (looks like a 4 prong socket) so you can easily change wheel bearings etc. Costs about $20 for an impact tool one.
No! Just lock the hubs and drive around in 2H and pop it into 4H and 4L in a wet parking lot with a puddle or two that will provide enough slippage.
The biggest hurdle in owning one is making sure you have a spare TFI module and tools in the truck to change it. That is the only weak point in the truck (IMO). 4x4 system with manual hubs is pretty reliable and sturdy.
One thing you might want to invest in is a hub tool (looks like a 4 prong socket) so you can easily change wheel bearings etc. Costs about $20 for an impact tool one.
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 164
Likes: 0
From: Seattle USA
Newbie with 4x4 maintainance question
Okay, you said you are a paver. My guess is that you have access to gravel. Be it a driveway or an alley, or a dirt road. This will work better than a wet parking lot. Simply park on the gravel every once in a while, lock in the hubs and move a little in both 4H and 4L. Most of all, have fun. Most things don't break until you abuse them a lot.
