A friend asked me today why he can't simply keep is hubs engaged, and control 4x4/2x4 from the transfer case. I didn't know, so I couldn't give him an answer. If the hubs are locked, but the transfer case is in 2x4, then the axle shafts, R&P, and driveshaft will spin, but the t-case won't... so what's the problem with keeping the hubs engaged?

 

keeping hubs locked causes more wear and tear on the cv boots and other parts of the front drivetrain

 

but thats what happens when u have auto hubs? so keeping your manual hubs locked is just like having auto hubs right?

 

yes, that is correct. you have the option of unlocking the hubs to lessen the wear and tear on the front end parts. once you start replacing cv shafts etc, you will definately appreciate being able to drive unlocked!

lee

 

heres a good thread for you to read, it'll answer all your questions
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/show...g+hubs+engaged

 

basically with auto hubs your kinda screwed... and your stuff will wear faster whether you like it or not...

 

not to mention the gas mileage. huge difference.

 

unless you swap them out with manual hubs

 

well ya, exactly...

 

Auto hubs lock and unlock automatically. Auto hubs are normally unlocked until you stop, engage 4WD and then apply torque to the front axle shafts and that locks the hubs. Then they stay locked until you use reverse, when they unlock.

http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/autohub/

But it is OK to lock the manual hubs and use the t-case to select 2WD and 4WD as needed. Done it many times, very handy to use when you have stretches of snow/ice then bare pavement, just flick the t-case lever back and forth as needed.

 

so do all tacos that you can not lock or unlock have ADD or do they actuallly disengage at some point? im confused and i read that link... didnt help

 

Autohubs were only used on some of the early trucks, I think only through the '80s. After that is was ADD or manual hubs. ADD leaves both axles permanently locked to the hubs, but the differential is disconnected on one side to allow the front end to free wheel:

http://www.off-road.com/toyota/tech/add/index.htm