Replace automatic Hubs
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Joined: Sep 2004
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Replace automatic Hubs
Can anyone help me on this? I want to replace the automatic hubs on my 96 bronco with lock outs,it has an electronic push button 4wheel drive switch inside. Will this save gas mileage? And any special tools involved? Difficult? Do i need conversion kit?(5bolt) Or will this matter in saving mileage? Is it something easy to do or should i take it to a shop?
Thank you very much for replying to this and any help would be helpful!
Thank you very much for replying to this and any help would be helpful!
Last edited by Raven826; Nov 13, 2004 at 05:58 PM.
Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 9,182
Likes: 12
From: Gateway to the West
Swap the autos out?! YES! This is a good idea. The autos are prone to failure or just flat not working when you need them. It will have no effect on your fuel mileage with either autos or manuals. Being in 4WD as opposed to 2WD WILL affect mileage so when you don't need 4WD don't use it and unlock the manual hubs.
Replacement usually requires an Allen key/wrench to remove the outer mounting screws. A small scrwewdriver or pick to remove internal clips is nice to have too. Replacing the hubs is a pretty straight forward process. If you can change a tire you should be able to handle swapping hubs.
Replacement usually requires an Allen key/wrench to remove the outer mounting screws. A small scrwewdriver or pick to remove internal clips is nice to have too. Replacing the hubs is a pretty straight forward process. If you can change a tire you should be able to handle swapping hubs.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 877
Likes: 27
From: South Florida
Warn Premium Hubs
Yes you need the Warn conversion kit, which is just a big nut and shim. You also need the special "2 ear" OTC socket to torque the locknut down, available at auto tool specialty stores or online. I did the Warn Premium hub swap out on my '96 just because I wanted to use 4L on the local boat ramps pulling my boat out of the water and didn't want to worry about front axle binding or damage. It doesn't do anything for gas mileage because the Ford Auto hubs are completely free-wheeling unless you punch the 4x4 button. So if you're are still in good shape its kinda pointless. Unless you're just looking for a project to do.
Mike
'96 EB 5.8L
Mike
'96 EB 5.8L
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Thanks mike ! i didnt know the front axles were free wheeling. You just saved me from doing a project. Ill wait until i have problem. ( if it aint broke, dont fix it right?
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Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 8,547
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From: MA
These hubs WILL break at the wrong time, and possibly strand your family (did for me). I would definately file this swap underneath 'preventative maintenance'.
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Brett Foote
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 267
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From: Hanscom AFB, MA
I think that I found the single greatest explanation of this swap for the three bolt hubs at the following website
http://www.keystonekrawlers.com/Mods...ub_rebuild.htm
This has pics and step by step directions on this. It was invaluable to me when I did my swap about two weeks ago. Talk about a simple job!
http://www.keystonekrawlers.com/Mods...ub_rebuild.htm
This has pics and step by step directions on this. It was invaluable to me when I did my swap about two weeks ago. Talk about a simple job!
Elder User
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 813
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From: NJ
in my opinion there is nothing wrong with the auto hubs. they do need to be cleaned and lube for them to work properly. they are a weak link if you are useing the truck for heavy wheelin where rocking between forward and reverse because they unlock and lock with a direction change. i have 130000 miles and my autos work well all the time.
i do have a brand new set of warn manuels in my tool box for the first time that they do not work. but if it aint broke why fix it.
i do have a brand new set of warn manuels in my tool box for the first time that they do not work. but if it aint broke why fix it.
