Locking Hubs: Description

4WD vehicles are equipped with front locking hubs. When locking hubs are set in locked position, front wheels are engaged with and driven by front axle shafts. Setting locking hubs in unlocked position, disengages front wheels from front axle shafts and wheels spin freely.

Engagement of the locking hub wheel to the drive axle is accomplished through gear and spring mechanisms within free-wheeling hub. See Figure. In locked position, a hub clutch engages inner hub, which is permanently connected to axle shaft by inner splines. Hub clutch is permanently connected by outer splines to hub body. Hub cover and handle are marked LOCK and FREE for position designation.