When to lock Hubs

[PT Paul]

Recently learnt/ heard that you can have the hubs on lock all the time! It even helps with lube! Any thoughts?

[NissanGQ4.2]

I wouldn't and would not recommend it to anyone

But have also heard you can leave it locked without causing damage

http://www.4x4abc.com/4WD101/hubs.html

[macca86]

leave them free on the black stuff lock them when engaging 4wd and you can leave them locked and go back to 2H if on the beach to save some fuel but you can bind the axles on the black stuff if you leave them locked

[PT Paul]

Thanks NissanGQ4.2 I thought it was a no no as well. But found it written in black and white. How can there be debate about weather it does any damage etc. Either it does or it doesn't.

[PT Paul]

but if the front diff is an open diff and there is no driving power going to it how can it get bound

[TimE]

You can have them locked on the tar so long as you are in two wheel drive (2H), else as mentioned above you will suffer axle wind up with the potential to stuff axles and/or gearbox and/or transfer case.

When hubs are locked in 2H you will hear more noise and you will use more fuel. (A hint for those using auto hubs is to reverse a few meters (in 2h) when finished fwding to ensure the auto hubs disengage).

Can't see the point in locking hubs in 2wd unless the black stuff is very short between dirt stretches.

[PT Paul]

So it doesn't damage anything (in 2H) but may notice increase in fuel consumption and noise.

[PT Paul]

Thanks guys. I don't plan on driving to mexico locked but it's good to know I don't have to get dirty flippin' em back and forward on a dirty weekend.

[the ferret]

It just means that your front diff will be turning when there is no need, more wear and tear on the crown wheel and pinion, the bearings and the front uni's and cv's. as well as more fuel.
Cheers, the ferret.

[Bigrig]

I do it if I haven't been off road for a while - keeps the oil moving, gears oiled etc, but I don't leave them in though ...