What is a Limited Slip Differential?

TLDRA limited slip differential (LSD) overcomes the problem of drive wheel traction difference. It limits the relative motion between the left and right axles, allowing power to be transmitted to both wheels. One commonly used LSD technology is clutch pack-based. It consists of friction and steel plates packed between the side gear and casing, enabling power flow to the high traction axle and limiting power flow to the low traction axle. However, during turns, the LSD can act like a normal differential. Other technologies used to overcome traction difference include torque vectoring and electronic limited slip differentials (ELSDs).

Key insights

🚗A limited slip differential (LSD) limits the relative motion between left and right axles, enabling power flow to both wheels and overcoming traction difference.

🔒Clutch pack-based LSD technology uses friction and steel plates to lock the clutch pack assembly against the casing, allowing power flow to the high traction axle and limiting power flow to the low traction axle.

🔄During turns, the LSD can act like a normal differential, allowing the right and left wheels to have different speeds.

⚙️Other technologies used to overcome drive wheel traction difference include torque vectoring and electronic limited slip differentials (ELSDs).

✅LSDs improve vehicle performance and handling by distributing power more effectively between wheels with different traction.

Q&A

How does a limited slip differential work?

—A limited slip differential limits the relative motion between the left and right axles. It allows power to be transmitted to both wheels, overcoming drive wheel traction difference.

What is clutch pack-based LSD technology?

—Clutch pack-based LSD technology uses friction and steel plates packed between the side gear and casing. It locks the clutch pack assembly against the casing, enabling power flow to the high traction axle and limiting power flow to the low traction axle.

Can a limited slip differential act like a normal differential?

—Yes, during turns, a limited slip differential can act like a normal differential. This allows the right and left wheels to have different speeds.

What are some other technologies used to overcome drive wheel traction difference?

—Some other technologies used to overcome drive wheel traction difference include torque vectoring and electronic limited slip differentials (ELSDs).

What are the benefits of using a limited slip differential?

—Limited slip differentials improve vehicle performance and handling by distributing power more effectively between wheels with different traction.

Timestamped Summary

00:00A limited slip differential overcomes drive wheel traction difference.

03:27LSD allows power to be transmitted to both wheels.

04:18During turns, LSD can act like a normal differential.

04:45Other technologies include torque vectoring and ELSDs.

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