Junk factory locking hubs

[guttyy]

I've got an '85 3/4 ton 4x4 with corporate axles and an NP205 - but still has the factory automatic hubs. I'm having trouble with the auto hubs not releasing and have ordered lockouts - my question is will the lockouts solve the problem entirely or do I need to look into the NP205 as well ? It is recently rebuilt and behaving correctly - thanks guys - guttyy

[wyldman]

Don't worry about the NP205.It was made to work with the locking hubs,automatic or manual.It was the NP203 that you have to worry about with locking hubs.

As long as everything else is in good working order,the new hubs should solve your problems,as the factory auto hubs were garbage.

[prospector]

Chris, please expand on your comment regarding locking hubs and the NP203.

[wyldman]

The NP205 is a part time transfer case,only meant to be used in 4WD off road,or on very slippery surfaces.It has no provision for speed differential between the front and rear axles,and driveline windup,or bind can occur.That's why it's called a part time case,only meant to be used part time.When in 2WD,you can unlock the hubs,and power is applied to the rear wheels only,and the front driveline doesn't turn.Saves on fuel,and driveline wear.

The NP203 is a full time transfer case,and has a differential built in to allow for some slip so it may be used on dry surfaces without driveline windup.It also has provisions to lock out the differential,for better traction.It has NO 2WD position.It is also not meant to be used with locking hubs.If you unlock the hubs,it can allow the front driveshaft to turn faster than the rear,and burn up the differential assy.So locking hubs have no benefit with a stock NP203.

There are kits available to make the 203 a part time case.It can then be used with locking hubs,and it will have a 2WD position.The only drawback is the kits tend to burn up the back half of the transfercase,as the chain is used to lubricate it.When you convert it,it stops the chain from turning,and lubrication stops.They usually recommend overfilling,and using 4WD often,to help with the problem,but I have still seen quite a few burn up if used mostly in 2WD.

The NP205 is slightly stronger than the 203,as it's all gears,and no chain,but the NP203 has the advantage of full-time 4WD.It cannot be beat for most on-road conditions.It's even nicer to plow with,as you don't get all the bind and hop when traction is good.

[Big Nate's Plowing]

go the time proven way and get a set of drive slugs/flanges. to put it in 4x4 you just pull the lever, no more having to get out in the mud/snow to "lock them in"

[prospector]

How can you determine if the 203 has had a kit installed?

[wyldman]

With the transfer case in 4HI,you would be able to easily turn the front driveshaft (hubs unlocked,or front wheel off the ground.If it's a normal 203,you will not be able to turn it easily.

[prospector]

Chris, as always, you've been a great source of info for me. Thank you.