Before understanding the mechanical differential lock, we need to understand the concept of locking differential.
What is a Locking Differential?
A locking differential (often called a “diff lock”) can lock the axles together, providing 100% of the available torque to the wheel with traction. When cornering, a locking differential operates like an open differential – the wheels can spin at different speeds. However, when traction is needed, the axles can be mechanically locked together, forcing the wheels to spin at the same speed. This is especially useful in off-road situations where one wheel is off the ground or on very low-traction surfaces. When locked, the wheel in the air receives no torque because there is no traction, while the wheel on the ground receives all the torque, allowing the vehicle to move.
Locking differentials use various methods to lock the axles together and can be automatic or driver-selectable, depending on the model.
What is Mechanical Differential Lock?
The mechanical differential lock we are talking about is a mechanical structure that does not require wire control, that is, automatic locking differentials require no driver action and automatically lock the axles together when torque is applied. Normally operate as an open diff, and lock automatically upon loss of traction (usually under 20 miles per hour), then unlock when conditions allow.
Conclusion
The driver-selectable locking differentials technology is simple, but it is still the most reliable and effective drive system equipment to improve the off-road performance of the vehicle. It can achieve a complete mechanical combination of the power of the two half-axles, which is very strong. Automatic locking differentials cannot be controlled manually and must wait until the speed difference occurs before it works.
Differential locks are only used in bad road conditions or extreme conditions. Using them during normal driving will cause serious damage to the tires and other parts of the car.
