A limited slip differential is a device that engages both sides of the axle for additional traction, but disengages on one side when turning to prevent wheel lockup. It is useful in work trucks and sports cars, and requires a special additive for proper operation.
A limited slip differential is a device found in the driveshaft of a car or truck to which the shafts and ring gear are mounted. Used to engage both sides of the axle in case of needed traction, the limited slip differential causes both drive tires to receive power, resulting in additional traction. Unlike a locked, welded, or spool differential that has both sides of the axle constantly engaged, the limited slip differential is made so that the driveshaft disengages on one side when turning a corner. This prevents wheel lockup and tire squeal as the outside tire struggles to turn faster than the inside tire as the vehicle negotiates a sharp turn.
Primarily used as an option for work trucks and sports and sports cars, the limited-slip differential uses springs that push against the clutch packs and apply pressure to the spider gears in a differential, causing the driveshafts to Both the left and right sides receive power from the motor. Once the differential detects a slipping or spinning tire, the clutches in the limited slip differential engage so that both tires spin the same amount at the same speed. This is especially useful in muddy and snowy conditions when a drive tire wants to spin and allow the vehicle to get stuck.
In high performance applications such as drag racing, the use of a limited slip differential allows the vehicle to accelerate quickly when hitting the throttle instead of a tire spinning under engine power and going up in smoke. In the case of a work truck, applying equal power to both sides of the driveshaft creates a very powerful pulling machine that can move large, heavy payloads without breaking a driveshaft. Trucks with an open or one-sided differential will commonly break an axle, since all the force of moving a heavy load is applied to only one side of the axle.
The lubricating oil in a limited slip differential requires the addition of a special additive to aid in the operation of the driveline clutches. Operating the limited slip differential without this additive will result in a stuck clutch pack which can make it difficult for the driveline to function properly. Most manufacturers of vehicles with a limited slip differential recommend changing the lubricating oil and additive at specific intervals. Failure to do so will void most manufacturers’ warranties.
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