On surfaces like mud, snow, loose gravel, or sand, power sent to the front wheels without locked hubs results in wasted energy and wheel spin. The locked hubs are the critical link that activates the front end.
How Locked Hubs Improve Traction and Protect Your 4WD System
Automatic hubs, often referred to as "self-locking," perform this action electronically or vacuum-actuated when the driver shifts into 4WD. In severe cases, this can lead to premature failure.
Once back on paved roads or in normal driving conditions, the hubs must be disengaged. Locking the hubs is a specific action performed on four-wheel drive vehicles that directly engages the front wheels to the drivetrain.
How Locked Hubs Engage the Front Wheels for Superior Traction
Understanding this distinction is vital because it dictates when and how you should interact with the system to ensure the hubs are securely locked. When you shift into 4H or 4L, the transfer case sends power to the front axle, but without locked hubs, the front wheels can spin freely.
More About What does locking the hubs do
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