Locking Hub - Manual

This procedure covers the removal and installation of manual locking hubs on the front axle of a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler with the 3.6L V6 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Manual locking hub assembly × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Axle nut (new) × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Hub cover screws (if damaged) × 6 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Loosen wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground
3. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at frame rails
4. Remove front wheels completely
5. Ensure hubs are in unlocked position before beginning work

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove hub cover screws
   Using a screwdriver, remove the three cover screws from the front face of the manual locking hub. These screws are typically Phillips or Torx head. Keep screws organized for reinstallation.
2. 2

   Remove hub cover and seal
   Carefully pull the hub cover straight off the hub assembly. Remove the seal/gasket from behind the cover. Inspect the seal for damage and replace if torn or deteriorated.
3. 3

   Remove snap ring
   Locate the snap ring inside the hub assembly that retains the hub mechanism. Using needle-nose pliers or snap ring pliers, compress and remove the snap ring. Be careful not to lose the snap ring as it may spring out.
   ⚠Wear eye protection as snap ring may spring free during removal
4. 4

   Remove locking hub body
   With the snap ring removed, pull the manual locking hub body straight off the axle shaft and wheel hub assembly. You may need to rotate it slightly while pulling. Inspect the splines on both the hub and axle for wear or damage.
5. 5

   Remove old axle nut
   Using a large socket, remove the axle nut from the end of the axle shaft. This nut is typically staked into the axle shaft groove and may require significant force. Note the staking location. Discard the old nut as a new one must be installed.
   ℹ️Old axle nut should not be reused - always install new nut
6. 6

   Clean hub mounting surfaces
   Using a wire brush and shop rags, thoroughly clean the axle shaft splines, hub mounting surface, and wheel hub face. Remove all dirt, old grease, and debris. Inspect splines for damage or excessive wear.
7. 7

   Install new axle nut
   Thread the new axle nut onto the axle shaft by hand until it seats against the hub bearing. Using a torque wrench and appropriate socket, torque the axle nut to specification. After torquing, stake the nut into the axle shaft groove using a punch and hammer to prevent loosening.
   ⚠Axle nut must be staked after torquing to prevent backing off during operation
8. 8

   Install locking hub body
   Align the splines of the new or cleaned locking hub body with the axle shaft splines. Push the hub body onto the axle shaft, ensuring it fully seats against the wheel hub. Rotate slightly if needed to align splines properly.
9. 9

   Install snap ring
   Install the snap ring into its groove in the hub assembly, ensuring it is fully seated in the groove around the entire circumference. Verify the snap ring is properly engaged and will not come out with light pulling.
10. 10

    Install hub cover
    Place the seal/gasket onto the hub body, ensuring proper alignment. Install the hub cover over the seal, aligning the screw holes. Install the three cover screws and torque to specification in a crossing pattern to ensure even seating.
11. 11

    Reinstall wheels
    Install wheels onto the hubs, threading lug nuts by hand. Lower vehicle until tire just touches ground to prevent wheel rotation. Torque lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Fully lower vehicle and remove jack stands.

Reassembly

1. Repeat procedure for opposite side hub if replacing both
2. Ensure both hubs are in the same position (locked or unlocked) after installation
3. Double-check that all cover screws are tight and axle nuts are properly staked

Verification

• Test hub operation by rotating the dial from lock to unlock position several times, ensuring smooth operation
• With hubs unlocked, verify front driveshaft does not rotate when vehicle is pushed forward (transmission in neutral)
• With hubs locked, verify they engage properly by attempting to rotate the front wheels by hand with transmission in park
• Test drive vehicle in 2WD and 4WD modes to confirm proper hub engagement and disengagement
• Inspect for any leaks around hub covers after test drive

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