Hey all,

It's time. I just had the ball joints done on my 01 HO 4x4 and in the process the already bad inner axle seal on the passenger's side got worse. Leaking like a sieve. So now it's time to fix that. And if they're gonna be in there, I figure what better time to get a set of free spin hubs.

This truck has CAD, currently on a posilock, but I'd like the true free wheeling capability - i know it's pricey.

What are my options as far as manufacturer for the parts I want to have installed?
Can anyone recommend a trustworthy and reasonable shop to give my truck to in the Front Range Colorado area - Boulder preferrably?

There's some other work I'll have them look at while they're in there, but the seal is really a priority. I lose enough fluid that i need to refill once a week or so, and there's fresh lube on the inner tire every time i park.

Thanks in advance, all!
Charlie

 

I have the EMS kit on my truck. Uses Ford parts that are easy to find replacement for (if needed). Easy to install. It was the cheapest of the kits when I bought it 4 years ago. Either that, or purchase a Ford D60 and rob the parts off of it. Or better yet, swap the whole diff in place. Then sell the Dodge axle to recoup some money.

 

I'm thinkin I will follow Tate's advice on this when I do mine.


There are a few kits out there but are around $1800 not including instal...

 

@Tate: Is that something that a 4x4 shop or the like could install for me? I would love to do it myself but I need to come to terms with the fact that I'm not going to get around to it.

How about compatibility with the steering components I've spent so much money on already? I wouldn't mind getting rid of the existing axle, although I just spent a bunch of money getting offset ball joints to correct the camber..

Thoughts?

 

Its a bolt in affair, should only be a couple hours at a shop for the EMS kit. No steering mods at all, just the spindles get swapped and hubs installed, different stub shaft. Swapping in a Ford axle is far from a bolt in, that would be much more costly if a shop is doing it. Pretty much eats up any money savings at that point. Steering would have to be figured out. Not sure on the tapers for tie rods. Might bolt in, might not.