Locking Hub Question

[jacobs.590]

Can someone explain the difference in the automatic vs the manual lock in hubs on the 2008 f250?

I have a 08 250 king ranch and it has the same exact appearance as the manual lock in hubs but they will not unlock. Is this a problem or is this simply fords way of making them automatic? Does anyone have any insight on this?

Thanks

[p8ntballn2]

i think when they hubs are in the "automatic" position.. they are unlocked until you switch to 4wd.. how do you know they aren't unlocking?? are they not turning counter-clockwise to the "automatic" Position?

[jacobs.590]

No they will not turn from the automatic position to the locked position.

[UofMF250]

Here is my understanding:

Your truck has both. When you put it in 4x4 is automatically locks the hubs when you roll forward say 10-15 feet, to unlock: put in reverse and roll 10-15 feet.

You can also manually lock them if, say, you managed to get stuck and were not able to automatically lock them (rolling 10-15 feet). This way you could get un-stuck in a situation that would not allow you to roll foward.

[jacobs.590]

I know how the automatic and lock in function is supposed to work. I had it on my 06. My 08 looks exactly the same except it will not turn from the automatic position to the locked position.

[UofMF250]

gotcha, I think I manually locked mine when I first got it. Ill have to check again.

[tensixniner]

Originally Posted by jacobs.590

I know how the automatic and lock in function is supposed to work. I had it on my 06. My 08 looks exactly the same except it will not turn from the automatic position to the locked position.

If the selector won't turn then the hub is junk. Most likely siezed from corrosion that has built up between the aluminum housing and the plastic selector.
Don't believe you can disassemble them for cleaning.

[jim_patterson]

Just bought an 08 with the same issue, I took them apart and tried to clean them out. Got them to turn with pliers and worked some lube into them but still an unable to turn them with my hand. The ****ty part is the only bad part is the cover and knob, the gears and everything are fine, but I bet it only comes as a unit.

[turbo kidd]

Just a litle tip for you guys. Some of us don't use 4x4 as often as others, so some people do not exercise the hubs. Get into a habit.....While pumping fuel, or doing your oil change go and manually move the hub from Lock to Auto 3-4 times. This will help you from getting those siezed hubs.

[jacobs.590]

Thanks for the help guys. I bought the extended warranty so not a big deal. I plan to take it in soon.