differential differences

[eagle-keeper]

can anyone explain to me the difference between limited slip, open diff, and true posi-trac?

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95 XL 4dr 4x4
1-1/2" shackle and twist
lift and level
daily driver

stock sucks cause stuck sucks

 

[Turner55]

it has something to do with how many wheels are actually pulling...positive traction is when all 4 wheels pull (in 4WD)...i'm not too sure about limited slip and open diff....i think limited is like when a wheel is slipping or something power goes to that wheel...that's all the info i have to offer Dead Link Removed

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'93 explorer sport 4x4

 

[Jambo]

As I understand it, an open diff will allow one side to spin freely while the other wheel is not turning at all. So if one wheel is completely stuck, gassing it will only cause the other wheel to spin if it can do so freely. If you have limited slip, I believe there is some sort of resistance which will cause the "stuck" wheel to turn as well to some degree. I am not sure of the difference between limited slip and posi-trac.

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JGB - Ontario Canada
'96 XLT 4x4
K&N, Bosch, Splitfire...

 

[us2btech]

To put it simply. Open diff will allow one wheel to spin freely without the other one helping with traction. Limited slip is achieved either by a set of clutches or cones to control or limit the amount of slip of the other wheel.Not bad design but tend to wear out.So if one wheel is in the air the other one will drive at a limited amount of torque . Locker or posi-trac is a set of gears within the diff to mechanically connect the two axles and drive both wheels at the same time even if one is in the air. There are different setups for these too. Some will release under a specified amount of torque and while turning on the road. Others are totally locked together(spool) and are not recommended for the street. Hope I helped

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92 4dr 4.0L 4x4
K&N, modified airbox
dynomax exhaust
31/10.50/15 on stock rims
Rancho 5000's
more to come