I've been reading about a manual hub conversion for the 4x4 system. I only use my 4 wheel drive in slippery road conditions and never off road, but I'm a chronic worrier. I have a 2003 ford ranger edge. Should I or can I do this change and would it be any more reliable than my current setup. As of now there is nothing wrong with my 4 wheel drive. Like I said I just tend to worry. Thanks all

 

your setup is the most reliable having live axles.

 

Ok good to know and thank you.

 

Just as a heads up, I would shift into 4WD high and low once a month year round, you don't have to drive just shift it.
While the hubs on your year are one of the better versions the electric shift motor on the transfer case is still an issue, the brushes get stuck and don't make contact, a tap from a hammer can free them but once they start sticking a rebuild is needed.
Moving shift motor keeps the brushes clean and working.

 

More good info and I will start doing just that. Any thing I should feel, or listen for that would be an indication of this issue?

 

The shift lights on the dash should change, they change from contacts changing in the transfer case/shift motor housing, so it means the motor did move the shifter if the light changes.

Indication of an issue is when the lights won't change with any selection, and your back is all wet after laying in the snow with a hammer, lol.