conveting an Np203 hub question

[84 400]

Well At the advice of dirtylary and mudder among others I think I am going to convert my np203 into a part time transfer case. I drive the truck mostly on the street and I think that it would be beneficial.

I looked it up on summit and for 44.89 I think the kit is worth the money. Now this is the mile marker part number 501 kit that replaces the "spider gears" in the t case and not the shaft replacement kit.

the other kit part number 502 includes mile marker hubs. this kit is 105.00 from summit.

The other kit replaces the entire shaft. I am planning on a 33 max tire and as I said moderate wheeling

My question is about hubs....
Should I be looking for a different set or are these worth the extra money. I am a big fan of warn hubs and have them on my willys with no complaints. Ofcourse those hubs are from 1958 and I suspect utilize better components.

So I am asking is there a better hub I should be looking for or are the mile marker premium hubs good? the truck will see moderate wheeling and street driving.


Thanks for any input.

[msgross]

I have the milemarker hubs but haven't wheeled (or driven for that fact) yet. It's really about price in your situation. Do you want to spend $200 for the WARN premium or $65 for the others?

It never hurts to go big but I doubt that you would have any issues with the MM's. There are other weak points in a 1/2 ton setup that will break if you drive to hard (U-joints, differential, axle shafts etc..)

[FormerMember]

The MM hubs are fine for what you want to do.

Could also check Ebay for used Warns... they carry a lifetime no questions warranty.

[OrrieG]

I converted by 203 in 1985 using a Doug Nash shaft kit. The ones now use the same design. The less expensive Mile Marker kits use a very thin wafer bearing that when it wears allows the internals to shift. Under load this can cause bad things in the case. The shaft kit makes it a true in or out box. I picked up 2-3 mph in town after it was installed.

All I use are Warn Hubs. Had them on our Jeeps in the 60's and what I put on my truck. I got one set replaced under warranty, it had the old retractor set up that would not disengage all the way. The replacements have a better set up. For around town the less expensive will probably be ok, but if you are using them, Warn premium (all metal) are my recommendation.