Section 2 (Locking Hubs): Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1989 Toyota Pickup, 1989 Toyota Land Cruiser, 1989 Toyota Cab & Chassis, and 1989 Toyota 4Runner. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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

Locking hub wheel-to-drive axle engagement is accomplished through gear and spring mechanisms within the hub. In locked position, a hub clutch engages the inner hub, which is permanently connected to the axle shaft by inner splines. Hub clutch is permanently connected by outer splines to hub body. A driver operated control handle applies or releases spring tension which in turn controls hub clutch position.

Automatic hubs do not require manual engagement, they are engaged by rotational force of axle shaft when 4WD is selected at transfer case. Automatic hubs disengage when 2WD is selected and vehicle is driven in reverse. Cams, brakes and springs are used to lock and unlock automatic hubs.