4wd front axle release, (how does it function?)

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DeepVee

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For decades I've been driving full size Fords with manual 4wd. "Old school" with transfer shifter and manual lockout hubs. My new 2016 3500 has a front axle that is foreign to me. It appears the front axle releases in 2wd by means of the mechanism on the passenger side of the differential.
Does anyone have a simple explanation, or know where I might look online to learn more about it?

Thanks a lot.
 
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keithert

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It may not release. Many 4x4 always have the front axle engaged and only supply power when the transfer case is in 4x4 mode.

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Danno

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This is an old illustration but same principle.
 

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opie

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There is an aftermarket manual hub kit for the 2500 as well. Don't know any details just stumbled onto it looking for something else.

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DeepVee

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opie said:
There is an aftermarket manual hub kit for the 2500 as well. Don't know any details just stumbled onto it looking for something else.

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Click to expand...


Thanks all. Perhaps this the front disconnect you're referring. Enables 2wd low range. With my Fords, I would often use 2-low without locking the front hubs. Very nice and convenient for backing trailer up a steeper grade, takes a lot of strain off the transmission.

https://dieselperformance.com/shop/...0-2009-2016-2500-2014-2016-3500-2013-2016-586
 
BossHogg

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DeepVee said:
For decades I've been driving full size Fords with manual 4wd. "Old school" with transfer shifter and manual lockout hubs. My new 2016 3500 has a front axle that is foreign to me. It appears the front axle releases in 2wd by means of the mechanism on the passenger side of the differential.
Does anyone have a simple explanation, or know where I might look online to learn more about it?

Thanks a lot.
Click to expand...

Here is a discussion that directly discusses the uniqueness of RAM's front axle disconnect;
2013 4x4 front axle disconnect - 2500too, or just 3500? - Dodge Cummins Diesel Forum
 
loveracing1988

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BossHogg said:
Here is a discussion that directly discusses the uniqueness of RAM's front axle disconnect;
2013 4x4 front axle disconnect - 2500too, or just 3500? - Dodge Cummins Diesel Forum
Click to expand...
Any kit that would fit a 2015 fits from 2014 to 2017 at least.
Aside from getting the free spin conversion to enable the use of a 2low there is no other point to it. The disconnect is already there so you aren't gaining any fuel economy like the 2013 and older trucks.
opie said:
No, this.

http://www.xtremediesel.com/Yukon-Y...k1xV6h8wmlpubvfN13jRkHDIq35438X2NEaAt8z8P8HAQ

I did see kits that go up to 2015 if my memory serves me.

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Click to expand...


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BossHogg

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loveracing1988 said:
Aside from getting the free spin conversion to enable the use of a 2low there is no other point to it. The disconnect is already there so you aren't gaining any fuel economy like the 2013 and older trucks.
Click to expand...

I have not yet ordered this kit but I think I am. Benefit is need based, to get it just to get it you are right, but if you are like me you will enjoy it.

When I am maneuvering in a campground backing the 15K pound fiver into a campsite I always use four wheel low. Being in low makes maneuvering so much easier but the unwanted side effect is binding, this kit removes the binding.
 
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keithert

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How does the front axle disconnect on a 2016 1500?

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