Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,301
Likes: 1
From: Dededo, Guam
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
i have a 90' f150 4x4 with the auto hubs and manual lever action transfer case. i don't like the auto hubs. i have heard about them failing at the wrong times and then you cant get out of 4hi or low.
i am going to get the hubs changed over to manual soon. as for pushbutton 4x4 i would never own one. i like my lever to much. and the fact that i dont need a crazy procedure just to get the thing in 4 wheel drive. thats just my 3 cents
i am going to get the hubs changed over to manual soon. as for pushbutton 4x4 i would never own one. i like my lever to much. and the fact that i dont need a crazy procedure just to get the thing in 4 wheel drive. thats just my 3 cents
Posting Guru
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 2,358
Likes: 3
From: Nebraska
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
[updated:LAST EDITED ON 21-Oct-02 AT 06:49 PM (EST)]>Just to clarify... the '97 and newer trucks have
>"shift-on-the-fly" regardless of whether you have a manual
>floor mounted shift lever or a rotary **** on the dash. The
>F-150 hubs are automatically engaged in either form, there
>are no manual hubs. The F-250/350 hubs have "auto" and
>"lock" on the hubs, but are not true manuals as they don't
>have a "free" position. This means you can shift into 4HI
>in a 3/4 or 1 ton truck without ever getting out of the
>vehicle. It doesn't mean it will engage
>
>-Kerry
Unless something's changed recently, on the Super Duty's, if you got the lever, you got "real" manual hubs. The electronic shift got the hubs with "auto" and "lock", which are still better than regular auto hubs.
--------------
1995 F-150 Supercab XLT 155" 4x4 M5OD 302
1986 F-150 4x4 NP435 300
>"shift-on-the-fly" regardless of whether you have a manual
>floor mounted shift lever or a rotary **** on the dash. The
>F-150 hubs are automatically engaged in either form, there
>are no manual hubs. The F-250/350 hubs have "auto" and
>"lock" on the hubs, but are not true manuals as they don't
>have a "free" position. This means you can shift into 4HI
>in a 3/4 or 1 ton truck without ever getting out of the
>vehicle. It doesn't mean it will engage
>
>-Kerry
Unless something's changed recently, on the Super Duty's, if you got the lever, you got "real" manual hubs. The electronic shift got the hubs with "auto" and "lock", which are still better than regular auto hubs.
--------------
1995 F-150 Supercab XLT 155" 4x4 M5OD 302
1986 F-150 4x4 NP435 300
Postmaster
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 4,038
Likes: 3
From: South Kitsap County, WA
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
Here I go again... I tell you one thing and do something else...
>98% of them that I would want are pushbutton 4x4<
In my post I was restating a generalization that seems to be true for my area as well. The auto/lock esof in the 3/4 & 1 ton trucks are pretty much the standard (although they are an option) unless you order the manual from the factory (or get lucky(?) and find a stripped down fleet truck). Trying to find a lever shifted xfer case in any truck with the newer body style is a pain. I know, I spent several months looking for one (that's the '00 listed below) w/ a manually shifted s-o-f. That way I would still have a small bit of comfort knowing something was going into gear, even if the hubs don't lock.
I'm happy with my truck, just wish Ford would quit trying to make each year a bit more complicated than the last.
-Kerry
>98% of them that I would want are pushbutton 4x4<
In my post I was restating a generalization that seems to be true for my area as well. The auto/lock esof in the 3/4 & 1 ton trucks are pretty much the standard (although they are an option) unless you order the manual from the factory (or get lucky(?) and find a stripped down fleet truck). Trying to find a lever shifted xfer case in any truck with the newer body style is a pain. I know, I spent several months looking for one (that's the '00 listed below) w/ a manually shifted s-o-f. That way I would still have a small bit of comfort knowing something was going into gear, even if the hubs don't lock.
I'm happy with my truck, just wish Ford would quit trying to make each year a bit more complicated than the last.
-Kerry
Thread Starter
|
Elder User
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 530
Likes: 0
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
Found the PERFECT truck, alredy lifte 9" 6" skyjacker, 3" body lift. 35" BFG muds, 351w EVERYTHING. But it's a freaking pushbutton. I'm so tempted to buy the pushbutton, use it until the auto 4x4 dies then replace it with a manual 4x4.
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 14,947
Likes: 6
From: Topsfield, MA
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
With my luck, it would die when i need it (while you're trying to shift into 4x4).
Primary rig is Green Thunder:
95' F-150 XLT 4x4, 302, 5 spd, MSD 6A, Flowmaster Exhaust, Sunroof, Clear corners w/ Diamond headlights, CD player with 2 10" subs and some 32" BFG Muds
.
Check out my Gallery for a look-see.
Justin - One Happy FTE Member
Primary rig is Green Thunder:
95' F-150 XLT 4x4, 302, 5 spd, MSD 6A, Flowmaster Exhaust, Sunroof, Clear corners w/ Diamond headlights, CD player with 2 10" subs and some 32" BFG Muds
.Check out my Gallery for a look-see.
Justin - One Happy FTE Member
Logistics Pro
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 4,411
Likes: 1,016
From: Central KY
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
I had a Chevy Z71 with the t-case shifter in the floor and auto hubs, and it failed on me during a snowstorm one winter and left me without 4-wheel-drive. Needless to say, I was not happy.
Then I bought a '95 F-150 with manual hubs. Ford referred to them as 'severe duty manual hubs' in the owner's manual. They too, gave me problems during the winter. When I locked the hubs in at the wheels, occasionally they would grind and not fully lock into place..which would cause the front tires to not pull.
Right now, I've got a '99 Ranger with the off-road package. The 4-wheel-drive system on it is all electronic, and so far it hasn't given me any problems. I can hear the transfer case engage, just like with the other trucks. It's a strong system. I love the ease and convenience so far too. I don't have to get out in the mud anymore...or get out in the cold and snow just to keep driving anymore.
Personally, I think NEITHER system is more dependable than the other. The only advantage of manual hubs is that in 2-wheel drive the front end is completely disengaged, which will slighty increase gas mileage and decrease wear and tear on parts.
Then I bought a '95 F-150 with manual hubs. Ford referred to them as 'severe duty manual hubs' in the owner's manual. They too, gave me problems during the winter. When I locked the hubs in at the wheels, occasionally they would grind and not fully lock into place..which would cause the front tires to not pull.
Right now, I've got a '99 Ranger with the off-road package. The 4-wheel-drive system on it is all electronic, and so far it hasn't given me any problems. I can hear the transfer case engage, just like with the other trucks. It's a strong system. I love the ease and convenience so far too. I don't have to get out in the mud anymore...or get out in the cold and snow just to keep driving anymore.
Personally, I think NEITHER system is more dependable than the other. The only advantage of manual hubs is that in 2-wheel drive the front end is completely disengaged, which will slighty increase gas mileage and decrease wear and tear on parts.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 14,947
Likes: 6
From: Topsfield, MA
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
Manual hubs are much stronger than auto hubs, and I dont think ford's manual hubs were that great. A good set like Warn Premiums or superwinch will set you back about 60 bucks but you'll never have a problem with them.
Primary rig is Green Thunder:
95' F-150 XLT 4x4, 302, 5 spd, MSD 6A, Flowmaster Exhaust, Sunroof, Clear corners w/ Diamond headlights, CD player with 2 10" subs and some 32" BFG Muds .
Check out my Gallery for a look-see.
Justin - One Happy FTE Member
Primary rig is Green Thunder:
95' F-150 XLT 4x4, 302, 5 spd, MSD 6A, Flowmaster Exhaust, Sunroof, Clear corners w/ Diamond headlights, CD player with 2 10" subs and some 32" BFG Muds
.Check out my Gallery for a look-see.
Justin - One Happy FTE Member
Junior User
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
From: smack dab in the middle of the USA
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
I have to reply, I can't help myself. The bottom line is this, If you are too lazy to get out and lock the hubs, are you going to be any less lazy when the automatics fail at that crucial moment? Also, as for the push button vs. t-case shifter, come on guys! I always got the impression that the push button was for people who couln't figure out what 2-hi, N, 4-hi, and 4-low meant. These people should not even be allowed to own a 4wd. Sorry, this just kinda strikes a cord with me.
Someone above said something about ford's manual locking hubs that they weren't reliable or something. On my '83, the hubs are the same exact style as regular Warn hubs, and they have never failed me, other than when it was my error in re-assembly. When I wheel, I wheel hard, probably harder than I should, and I would never own a truck with push-button 4wd or automatic hubs.
On push-button 4wds, you run the risk of ANY of the electrical components failing you at any time, on the manual style they do not exist, how can they fail? Logic dictates that this IS a better set-up. Just my $.02.
Someone above said something about ford's manual locking hubs that they weren't reliable or something. On my '83, the hubs are the same exact style as regular Warn hubs, and they have never failed me, other than when it was my error in re-assembly. When I wheel, I wheel hard, probably harder than I should, and I would never own a truck with push-button 4wd or automatic hubs.
On push-button 4wds, you run the risk of ANY of the electrical components failing you at any time, on the manual style they do not exist, how can they fail? Logic dictates that this IS a better set-up. Just my $.02.
New User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
From: Seattle, WA
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
I own both. Lever on an F-350, and dial on a `99 expedition. I have to say there are advantages and disadvantages to both setups.
Lever
Pros:
you can feel the 4X4 process
there is another lever to grab
you have a Neutral Position
cons:
you can grind gears if you switch from Neutral
most of the time, you get manual hubs, too and thats one more thing to do before hitting the trail
Dial, or button:
pros
Dont have to open your door to engage the front axle
you can still hear, and feel the tcase engaging
safety thresholds wont allow you to damage your system
there is no guess work weather or not you're in gear
cons
lacking a lever
no neutral position
you can only hear (not feel) the gears engaging
its a matter of preference. I've pushed both systems to the same whoopin every time I hit the trail. both systems are fun...
good luck!
Tony
Lever
Pros:
you can feel the 4X4 process
there is another lever to grab
you have a Neutral Position
cons:
you can grind gears if you switch from Neutral
most of the time, you get manual hubs, too and thats one more thing to do before hitting the trail
Dial, or button:
pros
Dont have to open your door to engage the front axle
you can still hear, and feel the tcase engaging
safety thresholds wont allow you to damage your system
there is no guess work weather or not you're in gear
cons
lacking a lever
no neutral position
you can only hear (not feel) the gears engaging
its a matter of preference. I've pushed both systems to the same whoopin every time I hit the trail. both systems are fun...
good luck!
Tony
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 14,947
Likes: 6
From: Topsfield, MA
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
You missed the biggest con of electical there is, the fact that if any one of those connections is corroded or damaged, it won't work and you're stuck using 2wd to get home.
Primary rig is Green Thunder:
95' F-150 XLT 4x4, 302, 5 spd, MSD 6A, Flowmaster Exhaust, Sunroof, Clear corners w/ Diamond headlights, CD player with 2 10" subs and some 32" BFG Muds .
Check out my Gallery for a look-see.
Justin - One Happy FTE Member
Primary rig is Green Thunder:
95' F-150 XLT 4x4, 302, 5 spd, MSD 6A, Flowmaster Exhaust, Sunroof, Clear corners w/ Diamond headlights, CD player with 2 10" subs and some 32" BFG Muds
.Check out my Gallery for a look-see.
Justin - One Happy FTE Member
New User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
From: Seattle, WA
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
With proper maintenence, and basic knowledge of electrical systems, it is'nt that bad. manual shift linkage can be difficult to align if you ever need to pull the tcase, and sometimes the linkage becomes lose, and shifts are no longer precise (this happenend to a buddy of mine).
Senior User
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 363
Likes: 0
From: Woodbridge
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
With the lever and manual hubs you have to get out of truck at the beginning of trail. However, that sure beats getting out of your truck in the middle of the trail to attach the tow strap!
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 5,438
Likes: 11
From: IN FRONT OF YOU
Pushbutton 4x4 vs manual 4x4
LOL!! We are having the same battle up in the Super Duty forum!
This is the satement that got me in trouble up there >
ESOF is a convienence, and is more prone to malfunction than a manual setup.
Have fun guys, got to get back up there and school them on this subjcet!!
This is the satement that got me in trouble up there >
ESOF is a convienence, and is more prone to malfunction than a manual setup.
Have fun guys, got to get back up there and school them on this subjcet!!