TM 5-3805-290-23-1
THEORY OF OPERATION - CONTINUED
0003 00
DIFFERENTIAL - CONTINUED
3.
Limited Slip Differential (Front Axle).
a.
General.
(1)
Limited slip differential is a locking differential designed to provide equal power to both wheels until
ground conditions cause a variance in traction between left wheel and right wheel. Limited slip differential
transfers lost power from wheel with least traction to wheel with most traction.
(2)
Limited slip differential is a direct replacement for standard differential. Limited slip differential is in both
front axle group and rear axle group.
(3)
When wheels have equal traction, limited slip differential sends an equal amount of power to both wheels.
This is similar to standard differential function. One wheel begins to turn faster than other wheel if there is
a loss of traction. When this occurs, internal forces present between shaft and actuator housings will react
on a 45 degree angle. Internal forces push actuator housings against clutch packs. Torque of clutch pack
limits loss of traction to wheel that is turning faster.
(4)
Locking effect is due to internal differential friction. This effect is produced by two clutch packs arranged
symmetrically in differential housing. In a standard differential, one wheel can be held in position when
engine is running and a gear is engaged. Other wheel will turn faster. In limited slip differential, above pro-
cedure would be more difficult because of clutch packs, and increase in difficulty as power increases.
(5)
Limited slip differential is identical on left and right sides of two pinion shafts. Limited slip differential
contains two thrust washers, two clutch packs, two actuator housings, two bevel gears, and four pinion
gears.
(6)
Inside splines of side gears are connected to sun gears for final drives. Outside splines of side gears are
meshed with inner friction discs in clutch packs. Side gears send power through sun gears and to final
drives.
(7)
Housing is fastened to bevel gear. Housing has inner grooves which hold outer discs. Outer discs are in
clutch pack. Clutch pack also has inner discs between outer discs. Inner discs are splined to side gears.
Actuator housings also fit in same grooves. Actuator housings and discs are held from moving radially.
Side gears fit into actuator housings. Pinion shafts also fit into actuator housings. Pinion shafts lie in 45-
degree notches in load ring. Pinion gears are installed on pinion shafts.
0003 00-96
