do 4wd fr axels spin in 2wd?

[melmount]

When cruising around with the hubs unlocked and the transfer case in 2wd.
DO the front axels and U joints rotate? I thought they did not move when in 2wd on these fords?

 

[dboyw]

No, they should not turn. If you have auto hubs, they might not be releasing. I put up with this for several years till I finally decided to get Warn hubs.

Make sure every thing is unlocked and crawl under there near the u joint, twist it back and forth a few time should loosen it up.

 

[02stroker]

X2 I had an auto hub hang up on my last winter. Stayed locked even though I turned the switch to 2wd. They can be taken apart and regreased, just do it sparingly. Heard someone on here once say to use ATF to lube them. Sounds like a good idea to me.

 

[melmount]

thx
I have been chasing a growling noise, Someone told me it could be the front axle. I said no cause its not moving and in 2wd. If it was spinning like a dodge or chevy do all the time then front axle bearings or front diff noise would be possible. I dont think it can be my issue in 2wd if nothing is spinning. I checked tonite. I zip tied the u joint to the axle, temporarily) I made sure ,first that the wheels were turning and nothing else. I drove the truck on the highway and the ties did not break. If i put it in 4wd it would of easily snapped them. Just veryfing.

 

[commanderjjones]

If the growling is coming from the front wheel area, you probably have a hub bearing going out. I just replaced mine for the second time at 300k.