Educate me

I have a '95 S-10 4x4, but NOT the ZR2 package (if it matters). How does the 4x4 actually engauge/disengauge with this truck? I took the front tires off for the first time and noticed there were no auto-locking hubs. Does the transfer case just disconnect for the axle in 4x2? I'm use to Fords and this is a slightly new concept for me.

Reply to
RLB
Loading thread data ...

No, the right axle is disconnected from the differential section of the front axle. The shift mechanism is located in the right tube that is bolted to the front axle. It is engaged by a vacuum motor that sits under the battery tray. When you shift the t/case into 4hi, you apply vacuum to the front axle vacuum motor and it pulls the front axle into engagement.

Ian

Reply to
shiden_Kai

Alright, that makes sense. I guess that's a more durable or reliable design then locking two hubs? Does it effect fuel mileage a little more?

Reply to
RLB

RLB wrote

Supposedly. Instead of spinning the crown and pinion gears around, you just spin the left stub shaft and the side/pinion gears within the differential section of the front axle. Less parts moving would help I suppose.

Ian

Reply to
shiden_Kai

and the U-joints and the front d/sh in the transfer case........

and keeps vibration down if the slip-joint in the front d/sh is sloppy

Reply to
TranSurgeon

Well thank-ya fellas

Reply to
RLB

Ian,

I assumed you meant: Both axles spin with the axle gears and spiders. On the axle with the disconnect, half the axle is driven by the tire and spins with it, the other disconnected half, spins backwards as it is driven by the opposite axle through the differential. Locking hubs disconnect everything. Not as convenient, but definitely better.

Al.

Reply to
Big Al

You are right, Al.

Ian

Reply to
shiden_Kai

NOTHING is more reliable than manual locking hubs... period.

-Tony

Reply to
Tony Kimmell

auto hubs are nice for the newbie...but eventually....even they learn that hopping out before a big ass hill or mud pti and locking you hubs in ( so you can insure they actually work) is a far better thing...trust me...had a

Reply to
Jay Anderson

How about the new Dodge's that don't unlock at all? :)

Al

Reply to
Big Al

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.