4X4 Info?

DirtyEddie · 10-11-2004, 01:13 PM

I found out too late that the 4X4 hubs on my F-150 needed to be engaged every now and then to keep them lubricated. Is it the same on the Titans? I didn't see anything in the manual although I have not read it from cover to cover. If so, how often?

vector6 · 10-11-2004, 02:16 PM

just every once in a while stick it in 4 HI .. on a gravel or dirt road.. just for a few miles.. then put it back in 2hi... it will spin up the front diff and distribute the lube oil... plus kinda break in the ring and pinion..

Sammy Sandbag · 10-11-2004, 02:52 PM

It's always a good idea to cycle through your transfer case, as vector said, it keeps the parts lubricated and seals good. Don't forget to drop it into low every once in a while as well. It's alright to do it on pavment, just keep the wheels straight and nothing crazy.

TitanicSE · 10-11-2004, 09:44 PM

Is it also true that you have to back the truck up a few feet to disengage the front hubs?...I know that had to be done in my 02 Frontier 4X4.

ksj · 10-11-2004, 10:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TitanicSE

Is it also true that you have to back the truck up a few feet to disengage the front hubs?...

Not on my SE 4x4 w/offroad...

IMADOGMAN · 10-12-2004, 08:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TitanicSE

Is it also true that you have to back the truck up a few feet to disengage the front hubs?...I know that had to be done in my 02 Frontier 4X4.

Just a point of clarification...you don't have front "hubs". Your front axles are always turning, but the transfer case is not engaged to drive them until you put it in 4WD. This is why you can shift into 4Hi while moving (all of the parts are moving at the same rpm)...unless you are spinning the rear tires.
This is not like the older trucks with manual hubs.

TitanicSE · 10-12-2004, 04:49 PM

You sure about that?...I was told the Titan has auto hubs like the Frontier did....however, the Frontier could only be put into 4WD while going under 25 MPH. Once locked, you can put it in 4WD at any speed.

Sammy Sandbag · 10-12-2004, 04:58 PM

There's probably some sort of disconnect, either an axle disconnect or at the hubs. Most modern 4WD vehicles have this so you aren't turning the front diff and drive shaft. My old 4wd Blazer had a vaccum disconnect on the front axles, as did (and they may still) all GM trucks, which are known for leaking and leaving you without 4wd in the worst situations. I believe Jeep recently went away from using axle disconnects and started using auto locking hubs, which I wouldn't be suprised if the Titan used as well. It's probably a cam mechanizim that allows the front wheels to spin free until power is applied. I would check the tech manual to make sure how this is accomplished with the Titan, as I have a 2WD and can't check for myself.

IMADOGMAN · 10-12-2004, 09:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TitanicSE

You sure about that?...I was told the Titan has auto hubs like the Frontier did....however, the Frontier could only be put into 4WD while going under 25 MPH. Once locked, you can put it in 4WD at any speed.

TitanicSE, I am not 100% certain about that, but looking at the Service Manual, it appears that there are no hubs, clutches, or other devices in the entire Front Final Drive Unit. The only component that I could find that was actuated when you turn the switch to 4HI or 4LO, was the Transfer Control Device (it shifts the Transfer case electrically).
I am going to look at it further when I have more time...
Imadogman

Midnite Mechanic · 10-12-2004, 10:03 PM

I checked out the front axles & differential when my dealer rotated my tires. I too was curious if the front axles disconnected when no in 4-wheel drive.
The front axles stay engaged all the time. I spun both front rotors/hubs and the half-shafts that go in the front differential were turning .No hubs to lock or unlock.

2004 CC SE 4x4 Off road/Big tow

Sammy Sandbag · 10-12-2004, 10:33 PM

Okay, maybe no locking hubs, but there might be an axle disconnect. Try turning both tires in the same direction while on a lift. The disconnect is usually on the long axle of the front assembly.