4x4 won't work in with hubs in Auto

[eldogo]

I got stuck in the sand the other day and switched the 4x4 on with the hubs in Auto but the front wheels wouldnt turn. Got out and put the hubs in manual and the 4x4 engaged. Just got the front hub & bearing assemblys replaced less than 5,000 miles ago at my Ford dealer. Any suggestions on what could be the problem?

[i11m10c2]

newb here but check the vacume lines going into the hub for blockage or a busted fitting.

I say because the truck i just bought has a broken fitting so the guy before me just tied the vacume line up out of way.
maybe someone with more experiance will chime in

[Codum]

Could be the vacuum pump? You should here it running when the key is switched to on. It is a vacuum problem. When the unibearings are replaced there is a new o ring that goes in too. It is my understanding this is what seals the unibearing to the knuckle. I wonder if your dealer checked for proper operation when they installed the unibearings. I have always done my own so not sure if this is Fords proper procedures. I upgraded to Warn Premium hubs so the auto feature does not work anymore anyway.

[dragon71]

My '01 F250 does the same thing. Just drove it today after getting it back from the dealer who replaced the GEM module, 4X4 switch and transfer case shift motor, about $1400! Now in 4 wheel drive it just spins the back wheels unless you manually lock the hubs. If they don't check their work that's BS!

[eldogo]

Thanks for all the ideas. I'm finally gonna have some time to look at it this weekend. Hopefully it's nothing expensive...

[Zaairman]

Just another case of the crappy vacuum system and front hubs... Time for Warns.

[rust bucket]

I bought the mile marker hubs and they are sweet!! Why go through all that when you can spend $200 on ebay and 10 minutes to install yourself to get rid of those plastic non lubricated stockers?

[petzl21]

I just got the stainless MileMarket hubs shipped to me door for $135 from Advanced Auto. They have a promotion code that you can use for 20% off (p20, i think). it works on everything but oil.

[Thunderfoot]

If I wanted to find out what the part number is for Warn Hubs for my 97 F350 Powerstroke who would I ask? If it was a parts store they want $200 plus for these and then there is a special tool for another $80 or so. Is there a short cut? I had a 72 F250 and an 85 F250 and I could work on both of them, but now I'm older and things are shall I say complcated....Any advice? I have auto hubs now and hate them as I do the auto trans....loved my old shifters. You-all are probably the experts on this stuff as I was in my day. Throw me a bone...thank you

[novemberdelta]

I never trust the vaccuum hubs. I switched over to warn in my 00 and just locked them in when I needed it.