I have a 2000 Ford Excursion 4x4

I believe I have the auto locking hubs. Basically I turn the hubs until they stop/lock into place, then once in the truck, I press the 4x4 button to switch into 4 wheel drive (engage the axle).
I need to replace one of my locking hub as it’s very hard to turn. But I’m confused about if I need the auto-locking hub or the manual hub (like warn brand). I only use the truck for towing a couple times a year (in 2wd) and in the winter when the weather is bad so I put less than 1000 miles per year. So I’m not looking to spend a lot of money on the replacement. Just fixing this so I can switch into 4 wheel drive maybe 2-5 times per winter.
Do I have to use the auto locking or can I use the manual locking one in it’s place?
Also, Do I need to replace both at the same time, or can I just replace one?

 

If you were having a lot of trouble with the hubs it might pay to consider a different system. If it is only a minor problem with one hub it would probably be better in the long run to open the hub up and see what is going on in there and it may not be anything serious. Sometimes a good cleaning and relubricating will solve that problem.

 

The hubs have been working well up until this point so I'm not looking to change the system. I've taken it apart but this looks to be an issue with the housing that is stopping it from turning. Looks like their is a piece of rubber stuck between the part that turns and the housing. Nothing that I can take apart so I'm just looking for a cheap replacement but I'm unsure about what I need.

 

When you come upon a situation like this I have found it easiest and best to take the part to a Ford parts dept and they can tell you what is available and what you would need to correct the problem. Items like this are generally considered "Dealer items" and you will get the right parts the first time and save a lot of trouble.
A lot of folks purchase parts on line and may get them cheaper, but if time is of the essence the dealer is the better choice.