The vast majority of two-wheel-drive vehicles are equipped with an open differential and are more affordable than a locking differential. It’s good to understand this and to have basic knowledge of how a standard open differential operates before you can get into and comprehend the ins and outs of a locking differential.
The open differential is there to send power from the engine to the axle. This allows the wheels to spin at different speeds while turning a corner. The outer and inner wheels will be traveling at different speeds, as the distance each wheel has to travel varies. The most power is usually given to the wheel with the least amount of traction. A locking differential is found in many four-wheel-drive vehicles, but what is it exactly? Continue reading to discover more on this topic.
What is Locking Differential?
With a locking differential in place, both wheels can travel at the same speed. Sometimes traction is lost on one wheel or the other. Therefore, regardless of the amount of resistance both wheels will still keep spinning in this case. Locking differentials can be added to both axles if you’re doing some rough off-roading, or you can choose to add it to the front or rear axle only.
The difference between open differential and locking differential is that equal power is transferred to both wheels in the latter situation. For instance, if you’re going uphill and a wheel ends up dragging in the air, the one wheel with ground contact can rotate along with the free wheel, propelling the vehicle forward to move freely.
Locking differentials are excellent for improving your off-roading experience because of the added traction, so often you’ll find them included in Jeep Wranglers, trucks, and 4×4 rigs. The two primary types of locking differentials are automatic and selectable.
Automatic & Selectable Lockers
With automatic lockers, the driver doesn’t have to do anything and they’ll lock automatically. They may only lock based on the driving conditions. Other automatic lockers are just the opposite, whereas they only lock automatically when it’s necessary. You can also convert an open differential into one that locks, which are known as drop-in (or lunchbox) lockers. When you apply torque to the vehicle, they will activate and allow for even power dissipation. The benefit of having lockers in place that only lock when completely necessary will help prevent unnecessary tire wear and allow the system to last longer.
As for selectable lockers, you have the freedom to switch between a locked and open differential as you please. Keep in mind that with automatic locking diffs, the driver has little to no control. They’re otherwise known as manual lockers and are more costly than automatic lockers. The benefit of investing in them is that they cause fewer problems in the long run and are more durable overall. Selectable lockers are great because they’re versatile and can work well during the week as you drive to and from work but also will be there for you on the weekends when you want to go off-roading. There are also air lockers, electronic lockers, and cable-operated lockers as it relates to selectable lockers. There are more moving parts with selectable lockers but you’ll find you have greater control and drivability. Automatic lockers are easier to fix if something goes wrong since they are simpler in nature.
Locking Differential Advantages
A locking differential offers many advantages and these may be reasons you’ll want to invest in them. Below is a summary of why you may want to use locking differentials:
· Power is evenly distributed to the wheels
· Off-road performance is enhanced
· Can improve the traction in rough terrain
· Can equip them to the front axle, rear axle, or both
· Activate with the push of a button in some cases
· Selectable lockers are ideal for daily drivers
Locking Differential Disadvantages
If you plan on doing any off-roading or wheeling then you’ll likely want locking differentials. However, there are some disadvantages to be mindful of. Below is a list of these cons:
· Selectable lockers cost more
· May hear tire chirping or barking when cornering
· Automatic lockers have a clunky engage and disengage
· If misused, they can put added stress on driveline components
· If selectable lockers break down, they can be complicated to repair
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