Manual Hubs
Another successful day at the garage. I replaced the auto free wheeling hubs with a set of manual locking hubs from Superwinch (p/n: 400543).
The benefits of locking hubs include better fuel efficiency, quieter operation, less vibration, and lower wear. However one of the main reason to install manual hubs is you can engage them when you need them without moving (usually a whole wheel turn, normally in a specific direction) the vehicle. They also do not disengage, doesn’t matter in which direction you go. The only downside is you have to get out to turn them on or off, which is not a big deal for us.
The install went quite smoothly except of two stuck bolts which is not a surprise with an 16 year vehicle. Heating the bolts up with a propane torch helped. Another item off our list. Here are a few photos of the modification: