Another 4x4 question
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Elder User
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 558
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From: Eastern, NC
Another 4x4 question
My 89 has the auto hubs with the 2 electric switches. My question is should both front wheels pull at same time or does it shift from wheel to wheel where the traction is needed. Reason I ask is last week I got stuck in a wet field. A friend that was with me said this side ain't pullen (passenger side). But I tried to back up and then go forward and it was pulling. Just wondering if both are supposed to turn or not. Also if not, are both supposed to pull in lowlock? Thanx in advance.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 937
Likes: 0
Another 4x4 question
It's entirely possible your auto hubs have issues but I think really you just experienced the joy of an open differential. An open diff will just let power flow to the wheel w/the least resistance, this is not beneficial off-highway as you experienced. To cure this you'll need a limited slip or locker, it installs in the differential, is usually best installed by an experienced grease monkey, and will cost anywhere from $300 to $1000. I won't go into limited slips but most lockers will never let a wheel spin slower than the ring gear, this means you get some differentiation in turns if you stay off the gas (good), but both wheels will always spin off-highway (good). Another option (probably best for rear only but some people use them up front) is a spool, which will make both wheels turn at the same rate all the time no matter what. Welcome to the world of being broke 'cause you spent all your money on your truck!
