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.

Locking hub wheel-to-drive axle engagement is accomplished through gear and spring mechanisms within 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. A driver operated control handle applies or releases spring tension which in turn controls hub clutch position.