4x4 hubs

[bigbadjx]

OK. So I admit I am not o0o so intelligent when it comes to the 4x4 system, plus I have it and have RARELY EVER used it since the car was bought way back in 94.

My question is what do the Hubs do exactly, and why are they so gosh darned big? Is there any hubs, even manual at this point I don't care, but are there any smaller hub that do not stick out so far, but still do their job.

I am looking into getting rims for my Sidekick, but not 4x4 style rims, I am going to be getting some sportier rims in which case I will be covering the hub with the center cap that covers the lugs too. Will wheel spacers be ok to use, or is this not recomended, and if not, why?

I really don't use the Sidekick for off roading, and personally am more into racing and show cars, and would like to fix my Sidekick up for show. Anywho any enlightenment on the subject would be greatful!

Thanks all!

[Shconer]

Wheel spacers are ok but you might have a hard time finding or making a wheel spacer big enough to clear the hub. Maybe you could make or somehow turn it into a solid hub. I have to wonder if, you hardly use 4WD then why not just convert it to a 2WD.

[bigbadjx]

I was thinking of doing that. I do not want to clear the hub completely, I believe I can get the hub to fit in to the rim center bore, but I think the hub will stick out to far for the cover of the lug nuts and center bore will not close.

On to my next question. Do I need the hubs on if I don't use 4WD for meanwhile. Also what would be required for me to do to convert it into a 2WD?


BTW Schoner, you are a great guy and very knowledgable with Sidekicks. I really look forward seeing your responses to a lot of different threads. +Rep for you!

[Shconer]

I dont know exacly what a 2WD conversion would involve. You might get away with just removing the hubs and axles and diff or you might have to get the 2WD spindles as well. I don't think I've ever seen a 2WD Sidekick in Alberta. Here are some interesting show car pics.

[Shconer]

[FLUFFY]

lol that second picture looks like a chunder,.....omg but the last one looks cool i perfer my zooks a bit higher tho

[lord_galathon]

I want that Lambo door kit!

[bigbadjx]

those are some really neat Sidekicks, thx for that schoner! I actually don't care too much for LSD's, but I have to say, they do look good on that Sidekick!

[djdaydreamer]

if i wanted to get nice rims like that and for the summer have the 4x4 hubs off then put my stock rims back on during the winter, with the 4x4 hubs would that work????