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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. |
