I'm new to the "SuperDuty" world, and the more I learn about this particular "Automatic Hub-Locking System" the less I'm liking It:

The vacuume-operated "Automatic Hub-lock" mechanism (out at the wheel) had failed on the previous owner, causing the P-side driveshaft to spin the Spider Gears for who-knows how many miles...eventually tearing-up the Spline-Stub support bearings (and Its Spline-Shaft bearing surface), Hub and Axle Tube Seals, and causing damage to the Hub Bearing assembly for being so a-wobble no-doubt.

I've found all of the parts needed to restore it available -- the Hub assy. and seals, etc., at various pricing depending on it being "Domestic" or "Offshore" manufactured, including the spline-end of the drive axle-shaft, but ALL for a lot more than what I think it should cost -- but I've only been able to find the PLASTIC "Automatic" Locking Hub mechanism assembly available "Complete" from the Ford Dealership, and arent they quite expensive for that : ?

There is some individual component I've found, but I havent' taken the assembly apart yet to identify it...I can say that it doesn't appear to be the PLASTIC "Dial" mechanism that's broken on mine : ?

I'm hoping there is an after-market replacement product or rebuild kit available to maintain thier function as designed...I do like the concept of engaging 4 w.d. Hubs from the Cab -- an invaluable feature in situations where it may not be best to leave the cab to do so otherwise, like back-sliding on a boat-ramp or other such incline (with or without a Trailer, etc.) where you're leaving the cab to lock the hubs in-trust the Parking Brake and leaving the M/T in gear -- but for what I'm finding of the costs of maintaining this systems operation intact as-designed, I'm now questioning the cost-to-benefit of maintaining it.

So, what are the options?

 

Looking to find either a rebuild kit or cost-effective replacement part (Used or After-market)...