Limited Slip Differentials Greg Reale

Differentials

What Are They Used For? Open Slip Differentials: Same amount of torque between each wheel Amount of torque applied is limited Problem Scenarios –Slipping on ice –Off roading Limited Slip Differentials: Allow different amounts of torque to be applied to each wheel

Types of Limited Slip Differentials Mechanical –Spring-pack and clutches –Spring forces side gears against clutches –Clutches “fight” each other –Torque applied to wheels is same as torque required to overpower clutches

Types of Limited Slip Differentials Fluid-Based (Viscous Coupling) –Links front wheels to back wheels –Consists of plates and viscous liquid –Viscous liquid transfers torque through plates –Viscosity of liquid affects amount of torque

Types of Limited Slip Differentials Locking –Electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic mechanism –Activated manually by switch –Wheels are forced to spin at same speed –For serious off roading Torsen TM –Senses difference in torque –Uses gears that bind together

Open DifferentialLimited Slip Differential (Mechanical)

References Nice, Karim. "How Differentials Work." Howstuffworks. Howstuffworks. 17 Oct "Limited Slip Differential." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 04 Oct Wikipedia. 17 Oct "LSD - OEM and Aftermarket Limited Slip Differentials." FAQ. Club 4AG. 17 Oct