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Originally Posted by sammy sandbag
I think you are classifying many differentials that are actually automatic lockers as LSDs, which they all aren't. Often a automatic locker will contain a spiral spring labeled as a clutch pack, but it isn't the same as a clutch pack in a LSD. A traditional auto locker would use two sets of interlocking grooved discs that lock up. An LSD, as it's name implies, allows for slip between the two axles, they are not "locked". Torque is transfered between the two, or biased, which works well for on road purposes were the traction differences between the wheels isn't that great. An auto locker allows zero slippage, because as the name implies, the axles are locked together except that one may rotate faster than the ring gear for turning. If you have been off-roading for many many years, surely you have heard of a Detroit Locker, probably the best known name in differential traction aids. They are famous because of their automatic locker. User selectable lockers (ARB, Detroit Eletrac, Ox) are basically selectable spools, where there is no speed differential between the two axles whenever it is engaged.
http://www.bc4x4.com/faqs/yj.cfm?cat=7&faqid=156
http://www.pps.net.au/4wdencounter/a...difflocks.html
http://www.4wheeloffroad.com/techart...43/index4.html
http://www.tractech.com/Products.htm |
Hey Sammy, thank you for your explanation, and the links! I think the first two articles give an excellent description of the various options and differences, their applications, and have clarified the differences, for me anyway.
I get the impression after reading about LSD, that we are much better off having the ABLS instead. For example in the article of your second link, " ...as soon as there is a large difference in traction ie. one wheel off the ground, there is no way a LSD will have any beneficial effect."
BTW, the company producing the E-LOCKŪ for Dana, and Nissan, (for the Titan), is Tochiji-Fujii. Below is a link to an article, mostly about the joint effort Nissan w/Dana, 205 front axle design, but also mentions that Tochiji-Fujii will provide the electronic locking rear differential to Dana. Would have been nice if they had added the E-LOCKŪ to the front too, (w/separate control switches).
Automotive Industries - "Making Titan Tougher"