I've just bought a '95 rodeo, 4wd, and the automatic hubs won't engage. The transfer case seems to be working fine, but the front tires won't pull. I found a vacuum actuator that has a small motor on the bottom that I'm pretty sure engages the front end, but when I put the t- case in 4wd it does nothing. Could the problem be in the motor on the actuator? Does someone make a cable operated deal to do away with the vacuum stuff like they do for Jeeps? Or am I just missing a step in putting it in 4wd? All I can tell that you have to do is shift the transfer case into 4wd and the front hubs should lock- I don't see any other buttons or switches to engage it. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

i would find a vacum pump and check accuwator to see if it works first. if you are like me just get some vacum line and run from a sorse on moter down to actuwater and see if it works then you will know if its bad . also im not sure if any one makes a kit but might be able to adapt one for a jeep

 

dam i need to learn how to spell lol.

 

I can't answer your question about the automatic locking hubs. I own a 1995 Rodeo and after approximately 140,000 miles I began having continuing problems engaging and disengaging the 4WD. I live in central Mexico and sometimes the going is quite rough, especially in the deserts and mountains. After spending hundreds of dollars on 4WD repairs I purchased manual locking hubs for just over $100 from Summit Racing. They were easily installed and although it's inconvenient to get out of the vehicle and activate and deactivate the 4WD, for me it is well worth it. I made the change approximately 3 months ago and I haven't had any 4WD problems since. I know this is different to your inquiry, but I just wanted to pass this along to you.
Best of luck,
Dennis

 

Thanks, Dennis. Getting out and locking hubs won't be that big a deal, I was actually contemplating putting a Toyota straight axle in my Rodeo, so I was gonna have manual hubs either way. You said you ordered yours from Summit, did you order them for a Rodeo or anopther vehicle and they happened to work? Are they Warn, Mile Maker, or what? I didn't even think about putting locking hubs on my front end.

 

Coleman, I'm sorry for not getting back to you sooner. Summit has manual locking hubs for a Rodeo. I purchased "Super Winch" and they have been excellent for me.