When making a turn, the outer wheels of a
vehicle must travel faster than the inner wheels. It is up to the differential
to act as a balance arm, establishing constant equilibrium of torques
and forces between the left-hand and right-hand driven wheels. In standard
(or open) differentials, power is directed to the wheel offering the
least resistance. This works well when making a turn, but in a situation
where one wheel is lifted off the ground, it causes the suspended wheel
to turn while the other remains motionless.
Limited-slip (or positraction) and locking differentials are traction-increasing
devices. Locking differentials transfer all available torque to both
wheels. The teeth of the spider assembly engage with those on the locker
clutch, causing both axle shafts to operate as one. Locking differentials
don't allow one drive wheel to spin while the other remains stationary.
Instead, they keep both wheels in drive mode, but unlock to permit
different wheel speeds when turning. The engaging and disengaging of
the teeth on automatic locking differentials often causes a banging
and clunking sound. Manual locking differentials usually use an electric
motor or vacuum diaphragm to engage the locker, reducing this noise.
 Limited-slip
differentials allow different wheel speeds when turning, but when one
wheel loses traction, greater torque is transferred to the wheel offering
more resistance. Limited-slip differentials make use of friction between
clutch plates, as opposed to the meshing teeth employed by locking differentials.
Transferring less torque per side, limited-slip differentials are generally
smoother and quieter than locking differentials, but still sometimes "chatter" when
transferring torque to the wheel with traction.
In some differential applications, a friction modifier additive is necessary
to reduce chatter. AMSOIL Slip-Lock Differential Additive is formulated
with advanced friction modifiers and is designed to eliminate gear-housing
chatter in cars, trucks and SUVs equipped with limited-slip, positraction
and locking differentials. It also reduces the banging and clunking associated
with automatic locking differentials.
AMSOIL Slip-Lock Differential Additive is formulated for use with both
synthetic and petroleum gear lubricants and safely replaces manufacturer
recommended friction modifiers. Its convenient flip-top dispenser provides
quick and easy application to the gear housing. One four-ounce bottle
of Slip-Lock treats differential capacities of two to four quarts. It
is not for use in automatic transmissions or other applications requiring
ATF.
NOTE: AMSOIL Synthetic Gear Lubes do not require the use of this
additive. However, not all differentials respond the same and if chatter
is noticed, the addition of AMSOIL Slip-Lock will eliminate it. For
chattering differentials not running AMSOIL Gear Lube, this product
is an excellent solution to the problem. |
