Limited Slip Differential By Yan Chen

Why do we need a differential? To improve performance (better cornering) To improve safety To reduce tire wear To reduce stress on axle and gearbox

What is a differential? A differential is a device that: Aim the engine power at the wheel Can act as a final gear reduction in a vehicle Transmit power to the wheel while allowing them to rotate at different speed

What is a limited slip differential? A modified open differential Allow more torque to be transfer to non-slipping wheel when wheel(s) loose traction There are two main types: Mechanical Viscous

Mechanical All mechanical differential incorporate parts of an open differential Uses a clutch or some locking mechanism to resist slippage Advantage most effective Disadvantage Less reliable More expensive

Viscous A chamber of fluids housing two set of plates (usually silicon based oil) When slippage occurs, one set of plate spins faster, causing the fluid to spin faster which forces the other set of plates to spin faster. Advantage More reliable Cheaper Disadvantage Reacts to slippage (not resist slippage)

Reference http://auto.howstuffworks.com/differential.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limited_slip_differential