The Locking Differential consist of the following components:
• | Locking Differential Spider |
• | Locking Differential Side Gear |
• | Locking Differential Clutch Disc Guide |
• | Differential Side Gear Shim |
• | Locking Differential Governor |
The locking differential allows for normal differential function as
indicated in the standard rear axle description. Additionally, the locking
differential uses muti - disc clutch packs and a speed sensitive engagement
mechanism that locks both wheels together if 1 wheel spin excessively during
slow vehicle operation. Under light loads, the clutch plates alone tend to
lock the axle shafts to the differential case, and therefore, locking each
other. This is due primarily to the gear separating the load developed on
the right clutch pack. This induced clutch torque capacity resist motion
between the side gear and the axle differential case. The differential allows
the wheels to turn at different speeds while the axle shafts continue to
transmit the driving force. Heavier throttle application will cause an axle
speed difference. This action starts the full - lock feature of the
unit. You can accomplish full - lock through the use of a heavyweight
governor mechanism, a cam system and a multi - disc pack. The flyweights
on the governor mechanism move outward in order to engage a latching bracket
whenever the wheel - to - wheel speed varies by more than approximately
100 RPM or more. This action retards a cam which, in turn, compresses the
multi - disc clutch packs locking both the side gears to the case.
The 100 RPM wheel - to - wheel speed allows for cornering with
the differential lockup. At vehicle speeds above approximately 32 km/h (20
mph), the latching bracket overcomes a spring preload and swings away from
the flyweights. At this vehicle speed, or greater, the differential is designed
not to lock since added traction is generally not needed. The axle parts
of the vehicles equipped with the locking differential are interchangeable
with those equipped with the conventional differential. Except for the case
assembly.