Bobsticle

De Villes Advocaat

• May 9, 2015

• #1

I had a closer look at the free wheeling hubs today. One of them seemed to be faulty.

They are superwinch branded and on closer inspection the off side (spline locking bit) wasnt attached to the switchgear. You could select 4X4 and the lock would engage but when turning back to two wheel drive the thumb turn pulled away but the lock just stayed in the hub.

It seems quite a few of the teeth that the spring holds onto have been sheered off.

Dont know how to get round this one without spending the rent money.....

 

D

divie

Well-Known Member

• May 9, 2015

• #2

I would look around for some second hand bits and go back to standard hubs. You will not notice any fuel difference and will not have to remember to lock them up every week to lubricate the railco bush. The only downside is that they will not be there to stand on when you reach under the bonnet.

 

samc88

Drivels spiritual representative

• May 9, 2015

• #3

I just keep mine locked permanently so i dont forget i only keep them as i have the hubcaps to go over them

Standard drive flanges and other bits are available from paddocks and arent expensive

 

oxides

Well-Known Member

• May 9, 2015

• #4

After I snapped one off on a rock (on a road in Cornwall, nothing heroic!) and got fed up with the oil leaks I put normal drive flanges on. Didn't notice a significant loss of economy and I soon got used to the slightly heavier feel to the steering. Well worth doing.

 

dominicbeesley

Well-Known Member

• May 9, 2015

• #5

Just to add a counter note to these comments I have measured 2mpg on a long 50-60mphish run difference with them on and off (Hull and back when the roadworks were on for about half the way). I also measured a couple of seconds longer to do 0-40mph. Not much but it does add up in the end. I was pretty unconvinced by them too.

You've reminded me I need to turn mine on for their lube up.

I've not had any superwinch hubs just AVM ones but it was possible to put them back together with the collar removed whilst I looked for parts - of course 2wd only but enough to get me back from the workshop for a pint.

 

Bobsticle

De Villes Advocaat

• May 9, 2015

• #6

I can't see there being a problem just leaving them locked for now. The only down side is they seem to fill with rainwater. Ok if I want to strip them every few months and grease them up again.

With the sort of mileage I plan it's not going to make much difference. Just be nice to have the option.

 

blue beasty

Leaks an prone to bits dropping off

• May 9, 2015

• #7

I'm quite a fan ever since towing up the motorway to Manc with a 2 1/4 diesel. The difference between engaged or not was 50 and 55mph foot to the floor.

That's pretty much equates to Doms +2mpg.

10% extra economy/top end for minimal effort and maintenence.......who would even think of saying 'no ta' in any other vehicle?

 

Bobsticle

De Villes Advocaat

• May 9, 2015

• #8

Thats a long punt from Cotsesterglowolds to Manlancseture.

Should have waited for the camel train.

 

J

John S

Well-Known Member

• May 11, 2015

• #9

What is the point of having FWH if you have them engaged all the time? Irrespective of the fuel consumption n heavier steering the front drive shafts and propshaft are turning for no reason. I've got superwinch hubs fitted and have never had a problem. Spares will be difficult to source hope you get it sorted. Never seen spares listed.eBay?

 

Bobsticle

De Villes Advocaat

• May 11, 2015

• #10

No point at all apart from being able to leave them in situ until such time as I can qualify spending a hundred and fifty smackers on a new set. Too many other things need doing before they become a priority.