6x6 front axle wont engage

[skeets.offroad]

Hello there, I have a 52 Reo 2.5 ton and the front axle wont engage. Pardon me for being a newbie, this is my first 6x6. I was told that the axle only engages in low range, however, mine wont engage. Ive heard of checking the sprag adjustment, but not sure how to do it. Any help or links would help. Thank you everyone. Craig

 

[gringeltaube]

Hello Craig and welcome!

This is what I didn't know when I started over 20 years ago with a '52 gasser and there was no SS-Forum.....

By design the Sprag TC automatically engages the front axle drive any time the rears are slipping a certain percentage. So the somewhat "limited" 6x6 function (on soft, slippery ground only) makes your wheels turn in a ratio 13/12 revs, rears to front, respectively. Any time, any gear, in both LOW and HIGH ranges, no matter how you shifted...!
That, as long as sprag clutches are not worn out and shift rod and linkage between tranny and TC are well maintained and correctly adjusted. Most often, not the case....

A lot to be read regarding sprag TC disfunction... http://www.steelsoldiers.com/deuce/45956-66-reo-transfer-case.html#post516321
or how the shift mechanism actually works (should work).... http://www.steelsoldiers.com/deuce/32130-shifting-sprag-tc-how-works.html

G.

 

[AaronW]

Just plain awesome to see a vet help a new guy out. G is the man! Teach a man to fish..........

Welcome to the site skeets! Always good to have another PNW'er around.

 

[skeets.offroad]

Thanks for the info G, Im now wondering if the air shift tc is the way to go, I plan on using this truck alot. I just bought a 85 international school bus with low miles on a DT466 with a allison, and plan on swapping in that powertrain. Glad I found this sight, You all seem to know what your doin. thanks, craig

 

[gringeltaube]

That would make a nice powerplant combo for sure! I think that the DT466 is a tad longer than the MF but heard saying it fits... not clear if that allison needs more room, to have to move the TC back some?

Keep us posted with your progress, we all need to learn...!

G.

 

[skeets.offroad]

I plan on starting the engine swap soon, but its a hard thing to do, my OA331 runs and starts so well. Just because I own a Cenex Fuel station, doesnt mean I want to be my best customer, lol. Im also looking for a cab in better shape, or at least some cab corners to weld in, mine has damage on the back side of cab at the corners.