Using 2wd with hubs locked

[Mtpockets]

I had an '85 Toyota with manual hubs and a 4cyl 22R years ago. Many times when pulling my boat out of the water on some steeper boat ramps I would shift into 4L without locking hubs. I now own a CJ7 with a 258, AMC20, T176, Dana 300TC and Dana 30 front axle with warn premium manual hubs. I know I will be tempted to use the lower gear ratio of 4L for the same purposes mentioned above. I can't see where it will hurt a thing, but on the other hand I don't have a lot of knowledge on differentials. I know lots of you guys know differentials inside and out. I would like a detailed explanation of why it's alright or why it's not to use 4WD with hubs unlocked.

 

[Mtpockets]

Sorry folks my title is opposite my post. Please provide answers to the post. The title should have read "Using 4WD with hubs unlocked".

 

[xt master]

I had a 78 Chevy that if would dobtge opposite in would lock the hubs but leave it in 2wd never did any damage but saved me when thinking I could make it threw a kid hole in 2 wd and getting stuck and not having to dig the hubs out to lock it in. I do not know if it is recommended .

 

[69jeepcj]

Yes you can drive with the hubs locked. you will use slightly more gas and probably feel a vibration at higher speeds. My dad bought a new 82 cj7 and i recall the manual saying to drive it in 4wd once a month for about a mile or drive with the hubs locked in to keep all parts lubed and moving.

 

[69jeepcj]

Your amc20 probably isn't the best axle for hauling and pulling a boat out of the water. I recommend looking into one piece axle shafts for it. The amc20 axle is a two piece design and a big nut holds the hub on, if you look at the end of your axle you should see a big nut. One piece is MUCH stronger.

 

[Bounty__Hunter]

You can use 4lo with the front hubs unlocked without a problem, but, like mentioned above, you'll be sending a lot of torque to the 2-piece rear axle shafts. This could cause you to spin a hub or break a ring and pinion in a high traction situation. Use it, just keep those limitations in mind.

 

[Mtpockets]

Thanks guys for confirming what I thought and I will keep in mind that the two piece axles are the weak point on the amc20. I will eventually get around to installing Yukon one piece axles.