auto locking hubs
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Junior User
Joined: Mar 2004
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auto locking hubs
I did a search but did not find any clear explanations. I have the electronic 4x4 shifter with hubs that state "auto" and "lock". What reason(s) would I ever need to "lock" the hubs? The manual does not even mention why I would need to use the "lock". Thanks.
Posting Guru
Joined: Feb 2005
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Lock is used to manually lock the hubs in... it's a backup in case the vacuum-driven system fails. Also, the vacuum hubs require a bit of motion to engage - if you're already stuck, you may not be able to get enough movement to make them lock. Turn the ****, you *know* they're locked in.
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,753
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From: Phenix City, AL
Read this thread. It should explain it all.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...highlight=hubs
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...highlight=hubs
New User
Joined: Sep 2005
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There is a small arrow where you line up the LOCK and AUTO selection. It has to be set in one or the other and can only turn in one direction from one to the other (flip back and fourth)
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Senior User
Joined: Nov 2003
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From: monticello fl
The manual locking hubs are there because Ford knew that the electronic locks would fail. Mine has and just about everyone I know with a 03+ 4wd has at one point or another. The good news is they do a pretty good job of fixing it when it happens. Still love my truck! 04 250 cc lariat fx4 6.0
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New User
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My brother and I each had '96 F-150s with ESOF. Both of us were replacing the hubs all the time. They worked, but the engaging dogs would break off (quite fragile). We both installed manual hubs and never had a problem since. Sure you have to turn the little **** but at least you know it will work when you need it.
Niether of us had any problem with the transfer case shifting properly.
Niether of us had any problem with the transfer case shifting properly.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 5,643
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From: NE Texas
Originally Posted by tvsjr
Also, the vacuum hubs require a bit of motion to engage - if you're already stuck, you may not be able to get enough movement to make them lock.
Same as the manual system.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2003
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From: NE Texas
Originally Posted by F250Wheels
Manual or auto it's hot good for the hubs to engage under A load.
If you get in a bind in 2wd and need to lock the hubs, just remember to give them time to engage - like rocking back and forth a little > with a manual this requires just easing off the clutch > with an auto just easing on the gas pedal.
