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How To Test 'auto-lock' Hubs?

Discussion in 'Early CJ5 and CJ6 Tech' started by SoCalNickG, Feb 12, 2021.

  1. SoCalNickG

    SoCalNickG Member 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    My CJ5 has "Auto-Lock” hubs, made by "Free-Lock" on the front axle. I have read about the Warn “Auto-Lock” hubs and wonder if my hubs are similar in the way they work. The hubs work in the “Lock” position. I would like to find out if they have the self-engaging feature of the Warn “Auto-Lock’ When they are in the 'Free' position.
    How can I test the hubs to chek for the self-engaging feature in the “Free” position?
    I can post pics when I get home.
     
    SoCalNickG, Feb 12, 2021
    #1
  2. PeteL

    PeteL If it wasn't for physics, and law enforcement... 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Try a short burn-out on a dirt road, check the tracks?
     
    PeteL, Feb 12, 2021
    #2
  3. Admiral Cray

    Admiral Cray I want to do this again.. Staff Member

    Warn Auto Lock hubs only work in the free position when power is being applied by the transfer case. They will auto lock when accelerating or de-accelerating in gear. To lock they need a load. They do not lock without a load. Makes driving on ice fun. I would test them in the sand...
     
    Admiral Cray, Feb 12, 2021
    #3
    Beach66Bum likes this.
  4. Fireball

    Fireball Well-Known Member 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    From this page on ewillys, it seems like they have a spring loaded engagement mechanism like newer Warn hubs:

    The Free-Lock Corporation and Their Hubs

    It seems they are automatic in that the dials are easy to turn and they will "automatically" engage once the splines line up while you drive.

    It doesn't sound like they are automatic in the sense of the Warn Lock-o-Matics. You still need to turn them on manually.
     
    Fireball, Feb 12, 2021
    #4
  5. Admiral Cray

    Admiral Cray I want to do this again.. Staff Member

    Warn, you had to be in four wheel drive for them to work. I spent a few winters driving in Big Bear in snow and ice. And yes there is a story about my Jeep and a Jag on ice on Rim of the World...
     
    Admiral Cray, Feb 12, 2021
    #5
    maurywhurt and Fireball like this.
  6. Fireball

    Fireball Well-Known Member 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Of course the story is now required.
     
    Fireball, Feb 12, 2021
    #6
    maurywhurt likes this.
  7. Twin2

    Twin2 not him 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    lock-o-matic. free position
    just for fun . anytime jeep front end is in air
    I turn front driveshaft by hand to see wheel turn :D
     
    Twin2, Feb 13, 2021
    #7
  8. Glenn

    Glenn Kinda grumpy old man Staff Member

    This.
     
    Glenn, Feb 14, 2021
    #8