Locking Differential

Assignment

To connect both driven wheels or drive axles with each other and to thus distribute the initiated torque evenly when the wheel speed differences are too great.

Function

A distinction is drawn between 100% locking differentials and self-locking differentials (please click!). With the 100% differential lock, the driver can make the decision her/himself. Through a sliding clutch, the cage in which the compensating bevel wheels are found, is connected with the right-hand drive. This jaw-clutch may only be engaged, either with strong slip of the driven wheels or when driving in a straight line.The self-locking of the differential gear is possible by dividing the cage and by the installation of a multiple-disc clutch. With unequal wheel speeds, the two halves of the cage are moved in opposite directions and are thereby spread. The multiple-disc clutch engages and limits the wheel speed differences.Older differential locks with spring-loaded multiple-disc clutches lost their effect after just a few thousand kilometres.Electronically controllable differential locks have been developed, among other things, to be able to switch off the lock during ABS regulation. In this case, the multiple-disc clutch is engaged through electronically adjustable hydraulics.The number of locks possible, is determined by the number of differentials available. With front-wheel- or rear-wheel drive, only one, and with four-wheel drive, a maximum of three.