Manual Hub Conversion?

I have an 01 taco (4wd, manual trans, J shift T-case, no ABS) and I'm currently in the process of replacing the wheel bearings (along with upper and lower ball joints). I thought that this would be an ideal time to convert to manual hubs if I can. I understand that I need different spindles and CVs for the manual locking conversion (YotaShop sells both of these parts), but I'm not sure what modifications (if any) need to be made to my front diff. I just wanted some insight into whether or not I can just buy new CVs and spindles, or if there is more extensive work required for this conversion.

 

You will need to change the ADD tube, that’s all that is needed at the clamshell side.

picture:
Bottom is manual tube
Top, still attached, is ADD tube

 

If you’re replacing bearings all you need is to change is the hubs not the spindles.
ADD or manual it’s the same spindles or knuckles

 

I did this conversion many years ago and love it. It drives like a two wheel drive truck when hubs are unlocked. You will need other small parts besides axles and hubs. I never changed ADD tube, just locked it in the engaged position.

 

So years ago I had worn out or possibly sticking o.e. auto front hubs on my 86 4runner. I changed them to manual locking "Warn" hubs.

The reason for the change was on first drive the auto hubs would noisily and somewhat violently egauge/disengage on cold mornings for the first block or two. The 4runner was always in 2wd from the night before.

Anyways because the transfer case was manually engauged to 4wd there was no additional ADD tube.

So my questions are...
1) Has anyone perminately locked the ADD and swapped to manual locking hubs?
2) What misc. Parts and any issues?

 

Over on the "BST" side of the forum....
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...knuckles-and-cvs.709082/page-11#post-30182740

I got all my stuff from Jason to do my conversion.

 

Yes, I have personally locked my vacuum operated ADD tube in the engaged position (with manual locking hubs) and was a daily driver for years with no issues. There are other small but important parts needed to do the conversion.

 

AWD or nothing...

Take a look at this genius approach to bringing AWD to the Tacoma - (his post is here)

https://youtu.be/SfeeqsrEszY

 

So to be clear (in my mind). Converted to manual hubs + locked add would benefit steering by unlocking wheels from axles (but still have 4wd option when hubs are locked). The axles would turn full time as the transfer case is always engaged. This is the reason for the FJ single or twin stick transfer case swap... The way real 4wd should still be IMO.

 

When the transfer case is in two wheel drive and the hubs are unlocked, axles and driveshaft don't spin. I have a J shift transfer case. Less wear on boots and bearings and better gas mileage. No axle vibration at freeway speeds even with small lift. The only downside is having to get out and lock the hubs once on the dirt road. The main reason for doing all of this was to put a limited slip diff in the front. The factory ADD system will not disconnect properly for a limited slip. I wanted a limited slip instead of a locker to limit the chance of breaking a front axle. I have a factory rear locker. Solid daily driver and very capable off-road.

 

As much as I hate my electric axle once it's engaged it's fine.