The locking hub is important because it allows the user to disengage the front wheel hubs during the 2WD mode. It lessens friction on the axles and allows the wheel hubs to spin freely.
Wheel locking hub operationLocking hubs are made to fit some four-wheel drive vehicles, almost all the older vehicles. It allows the front wheels to rotate when it is disengaged from the front axle. The procedure is done to lessen the resistance of the drivetrain when it is not in four-wheel drive mode. There are also mechanically and automatic locking hubs, the mechanical locking hub requires the user to get out of the vehicle and active it by hand.
Mechanical and automatic Wheel locking hub benefitsThe automatic locking hub is more practical since the user does not have to get out of the vehicle to engage or disengage the hubs. But it does require the vehicle to move a bit for the hubs to activate. The mechanically activated locking hubs can be turned on by a switch at the end of the axle, and they are less vulnerable to issues.
Common issues with a faulty wheel locking hubA faulty wheel locking hub can cause the locking hubs to not activate properly, noises, and poor fuel economy.