2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission 4x4 Front axle question

[DKothe]

Hello y'all,

I have a question about my '99 4x4 QC 5spd.

The front axle, Dana 70?, doesn't have lockout hubs on it. You don't have to back up to unlock the hubs like in my '87 Chev.

How does the front axle work in relation to locking and unlocking from 4x4 to 4x2? I know I can rotate the front drive shaft and it doesn't cause the axle to "lock in". Is there something else that makes it lock in?



I noticed there is a "box" with electrical connection and vacuum connection on the passenger side of the axle. Does this axle use something like a shift fork to engage the 3rd member?



Thanks

 

[dieselshadow]

The front Dana 60 (and 44 on the 1/2 tons) have a vacuum disconnect on the passenger side. The stub axles are always engaged. There are three axle shafts within the axle housing. The disconnect disconnects the two shafts on the passenger side dissabling the axle. When you shift to 4WD, you engage the front axle by two methods. First, the transfer case engages the front drive shaft, second the axle engages the two shafts together.



Hope this helps - Jason Oo.

 

[RBratby]

your front axle is a dana 60. the box on the passenger side of the axle is a vacuum pump to engage four wheel drive.

 

[biggy238]

To be more specific- the system is the Center Axle Disconnect CAD. You probably should still reverse when you shift out of 4X4 just to unmesh the transfer case and the cad, but it doesn't have to be the extensive distance older setups sometimes required. I know my fords take forever when it's cold out to unlock.

 

[Joe G.]

I just turn my steering wheel a little going forward to disconnect the CAD. Never any problem so far.

 

[DKothe]

Thanks

Great replies guys. Now I know what the heck I'm looking at.



Thanks