4X4??????

[kodalee]

When I get stuck and put it into 4wheel drive the front shaft spins but the wheels won't spin unless I lock the hubs is that normal.

[LTZ C20]

Yes this is proper operation. With a 4 wheel drive with manual hubs, the system will not work unless the transfer case (shifted from the lever on the cab floor) and the hubs (locked in at each wheel) are engaged.

On vehicles with automatic locking hubs, the hubs will lock when the transfer case is engaged and then the vehicle moves and locks in the hubs.

On newer vehicles, the system is a little different. Usually an electric motor or actuators lock in the transfer case and front differential when 4 wheel drive is activated.

Keep in mind, in 2 wheel drive, the front axle still spins and so will the forward drive shaft, along with the internals of the transfer case. Switching to 4 wheel drive and locking the hubs is what completes the system.

[blazing816]

Yes this is normal, I days where you might need 4x4 (like snowy days) you can leave the wheel hubs in the 'lock' position and then use the lever on the floor to put in and out of 4wd without having to get out. This just causes more drag and friction which will in turn hurt gas millage and what not. That is what I do on days here in Michigan that are snowy, I lock my hubs in the driveway and then I can use the lever whenever I'm in parts of roads and stuff that aren't plow well without having to get out of the truck.