1997 Ford F350 4x4 Question

And?

Hey guys, I have a 97 f350 7.5L. I am considering switching my automatic locking hubs to manual. The question is: if I switch to manual locking hubs and have them in the free position and put my truck in 4x4 will I still have 4x4 or do I HAVE to lock the hubs for the front wheels to turn? I understand what the hubs do when locked. I'm wondering what happens when in 4x4 with hubs unlocked.

If the hubs are unlocked the axles will turn but the wheels will not have any power to them,

Thank you. That's what I figured. I hear manual hubs are just a better product to have, if you don't mind hoping out your truck to lock them. Is this true. Better, more reliable and more functionavle than automatic locking?

I just don't trust automatic locking hubs to do the job and actually lock when I need my tires to turn

You can also run the truck with the hubs locked but in 2 wheel drive. I would not do it all the time as you will cause a lot of wear in the front axle but when you are trail running but don't want to have it in 4 WD or get out to lock the hubs in this works just fine.

My 2002 F150 automatic locking has been 100% reliable. I think the Super Duty locking system is slightly different than the half ton trucks.