Thanks guys. I was thinking about it, if anything, it locks the two front wheels to their respective axleshafts...but not together since it is still an open diff. Everything is still spinning freely, not "locked up". So minor 2hi driving with hubs locked seems like it's non-damaging as long as there is good upkeep on the car. Besides, by the time I get back to the pavement to drive home, I can unlock them and go on my way. The manual hubs will be better for me since I will be flat towing the Tracker too.
Sorry for the thread hijack, but while we were on the topic...