OK, just bought my first 4x4
89 Ford F-150 5.8l V8
80k original miles, it's in great shape.

I'm new to this, and the truck doesn't have an original manual with it. I'm looking for instructions/guidelines, etc. on the 4wd system so I don't hose it up.

If you have a link or a place on the web or a manual you can copy and send me let me know.

email: junkmail@fps.com

Questions are:
at what speed is it safe to jump into 4wd H ?
Do the front hubs have to be locked to do this ?

I'm pretty ignorant on the subject so please bear with me.

-MD

 

Reguarding the 4x4 operation, the hubs have to be locked in to work. Everything will turn in 4 wheel drive with the hubs unlocked except the hub/tire.
You didn't say whether it was an auto or standard. With my 5spd I can just push in the clutch and shift into 4hi like any other gear. I think you can anytime with an auto, I just wouldn't do it while you are accelerating. I think all you have to do is take your foot of the gas.
To shift into 4lo, you have to stop moving, or be going real slow. About 1 mph or less.
Rob
89 f150 4x4

 

my 89 has 4x4 instructions on the drivers sun shade, almost every older model like mine has the instructions, you guys trucks don't have this?

Rob, if its a 351, it couldnt have a manual, just auto.

 

I pick it up tomorrow, didn't look when I drove it this morning. It's an 89 460/Auto [img]/dcforum/Images/wink.gif[/img]

-Matt

 

>Reguarding the 4x4 operation, the hubs have
>to be locked in to work.
> Everything will turn in 4
>wheel drive with the hubs unlocked
>except the hub/tire. You didn't say
>whether it was an auto or
>standard. With my 5spd I
>can just push in the clutch
>and shift into 4hi like any
>other gear. I think you
>can anytime with an auto, I
>just wouldn't do it while you
>are accelerating. I think all
>you have to do is take
>your foot of the gas. To
>shift into 4lo, you have to
>stop moving, or be going real
>slow. About 1 mph or
>less. Rob 89 f150 4x4

So what is the purpose of the hub locks then. Why wouldn't you just leave em locked so you can use 4wheel drive when ever you need it ?

What's the advantage of having them unlocked, etc, etc.

Thanks.

 

The point of the hubs is that when they are unlocked, there is a lot less drag. You get better gas mileage. Also, and most importantly, the front axle, differential, and driveshaft don't have to turn all the time. This greatly reduces wear on the front end. My hubs are never locked except when I am using 4WD.
I don't think you have a stock 460, as you said in the second post. They were never offered from the factory in a F150.
Pastmaster,
Do you know what manual tranny's were available behind the 351W(I don't know what a 5.8 is!)? I would like to find a ZF to replace my M5OD. I want a low first and overdrive also, just like everyone else! Thanks

 

 

First of all, If you want to save your driveline, only shift into four-wheel when you are completely stopped. It's the safest way. You CAN leave your hubs in for as much as two to three months, even if you are driving on the street. Anyone who tells you different just hasn't been around long enough to know. Just relax, don't worry about it too much. I'm sure you're already confused with everyone putting in their opinion.