419 Left front axle failure

[1990mog419]

Hey everyone! First time posting. I just bought a 1990 SEE and the left front axle snapped the first time I used it. I suspect the front diff lock was engaged, though I'm positive the switch was turned off. Looking for any advice you can give on how to replace this (Expedition Imports has the part), what else I should replace while I'm in there, and how to go about troubleshooting a front diff lock that seems to be stuck on.

Huge thank you for your time!

 

[Speedwoble]

Welcome to the club!
Service and parts manuals are easily accessible and will tell you what work you are in for. The locker is slid over by air and returned by a spring. A bit of binding or a bit of rust and it might not slide. On the set of axles I sold, I could apply air and hear the locker slide to engage and disengage with a click.
Where are you located?

 

[1990mog419]

Thank you for the warm welcome and information on the locker. I'll see about that spring, that's probably the issue. I'm in Washington State.

 

[joeblack5]

Wow, that is not good. I am surprised that it would brake like that.
Johan

 

[1990mog419]

Wow, that is not good. I am surprised that it would brake like that.
Johan

I'm surprised too. It sucks, but this is a 30 year old piece of equipment. Stuff happens. I'll use the opportunity to replace as many bearings, seals, hoses, etc, that I come across. She'll be good as new in no time.