This Sidekick came with auto...
This Sidekick came with auto locking hubs, which don't always work, and aren't recommended for being towed to the trail. Simply jack up the rig, remove the tire and wheel, then pop off the auto-lock cap.
Axle upgrades are a cornerstone of wrenchingon your 4x4, whether you're just topping off the gear oil or installing ball joints and a ring-and-pinion. While all of these upgrades are considered easy by some, we've chosen three simple ones which anyone can do in a few hours. These upgrades greatly increase the reliability, strength, and safety of your rig.
Locking hubs were one of the first aftermarket wheeling items and are still an important add-on. These units disconnect the front axle from the wheels while on the street, allowing for less drag on the drivetrain, and increasing fuel economy. Not all vehicles can benefit from this setup, but if you have auto locking hubs or drive flanges on your older rig (and not equipped with a full-time transfer case), then this is a simple mod you can do in an hour, and some models start just under $100.
Most auto hubs and manual...
Most auto hubs and manual locking styles are similar, and instructions are included with the Warn hubs we chose. With the outer cap removed, the hub body retained by six Allen bolts is pulled off, exposing the spindle nuts. That's it!
The new Warn manual locking...
The new Warn manual locking hub is installed with an O-ring (or gasket on some models), and then liquid thread locker is used on the six Allen bolts holding the locking hub to the vehicle hub. The outer cap is held on by six small Allen bolts, and you're done with the install.
We like to torque the six...
We like to torque the six hub bolts to spec while someone else holds the brakes on so that the rotor won't turn.