Question about F150 Ford Automatic Hubs 1996 vintage.

[ultrarunner]

Is it worth it to ditch the OEM Ford Factory optional automatic locking hubs with the "3 Screw Cover" for manual locking hubs on a 1996 F150?

If so there are several aftermarket hubs to choose from.

As I understand it the OEM really only work going forward and the vehicle has to travel a few feet minimum to engage... which might not be the best when max traction is needed immediately.

 

[tcartwri]

Is it worth it to ditch the OEM Ford Factory optional automatic locking hubs with the "3 Screw Cover" for manual locking hubs on a 1996 F150?

If so there are several aftermarket hubs to choose from.

As I understand it the OEM really only work going forward and the vehicle has to travel a few feet minimum to engage... which might not be the best when max traction is needed immediately.

They were extremely fragile, and yes the vehicle has to be in motion for them to work... Wait until you're stuck and you usually break them when they try to engage.

 

[ultrarunner]

OK... sounds like I should swap them out.

Warn, Mile Marker, Super Winch?

 

[tcartwri]

Warn is the only one I'm familiar with.

 

[ultrarunner]

In reading it looks like any off serious off roader avoids automatic hubs in this vintage.

Going to order a set of locking ones today.

 

[terryknight]

can't stand the auto hubs on any trucks

OK... sounds like I should swap them out.

Warn, Mile Marker, Super Winch?

i have used them all. i prefer warn they were also ford OEM supplier for a long time

 

[Birdhunter1]

can't stand the auto hubs on any trucks



i have used them all. i prefer warn they were also ford OEM supplier for a long time

I had three trucks (83 F 250, 84 F 150 and a 92 F 150) The '83 and '84 each had manual locks (Warn and Ford OEM respectively) and the 92 was auto. My auto's never broke and the Warn and Ford OEM looked the same and took the same maintenance kit parts.

 

[ultrarunner]

I think the 96 could be saved by taking apart and making sure everything slides inside...

The best I can tell the last time 4WD was used on this truck was 15 years ago... I know it does not engage... transfer case works fine.

Planned to order a set or lockers and my brother said it was not necessary... so I just left it at that.

This is the pickup I gave my nephew.

I do confess I miss driving it... something about a full size 8' bed 4wd pickup with a 5 speed manual that makes you one with the truck... it rode and handled well on the highway... 100% stock... as in springs and tire size... even Mom like riding in it once she climbed in!