problem with auto/ locking hubs

[Campbellmeister]

I just bought a 2001 F-350 with Auto/ Locking hubs and after giving the 4 wheel drive a good test my hubs don't seem to be unlocking. Without the 4x4 switch engaged on the dash, the front wheels are still binding on the concrete. Also, the driver side hub switch is extremely difficult to turn from auto to locked. Any thoughts?
Thanks in advance

[NCHornet]

They need maintenance, spray some wd/40 in the center of the hub, there is a coarse area and it will absorb the fluid, plus around the edge, do this until the move freely. Check the vacuum lines at the rear of the hubs, they crack and need to be cut off and re inserted over the nipple. Folks complain about the ESOF, but the vast majority of the problems comes from poor maintenance.

NCH

[travisj1987]

yeah my driver side hub is the same way, you can see what looks like seals comein out from were you turn them. Im just going to get some warn hubs and throw them on it

[Campbellmeister]

Thanks NCH. Where exactly should I spray the WD40? Should I remove the hub?

[NCHornet]

You don't need to remove the hub, just spray all around the edges, and the piece that runs across the middle, if you close that cross member is very pourous, I believe it is the vent for the hubs, but it will absorb wd40 like crazy and will loosen the hubs up. I shoot mine at every oil change and I can move mine now with two fingers. When I bought the truck they were locked up tight!! If you see the seals protruding they need to be replaced.

NCH

[travisj1987]

time for me to replace lol