how does it work traction lock

[jjbadboy]

I just dont understand

 

[Chris.S.]

Hooo boy there's big question.

First, how much do you understand about them?

 

[BlackBII]

Read this:

http://www.therangerstation.com/Magazine/Feb 06/tech.htm

 

[AllanD]

The spider gears and axle pinions work the same as in an open differential,
however behind each of the axle pinions there is a multi disc clutch pack.

In the picture of the traction Loc shown in the link above you can see the "Flags" tht locate the friction discs peeking out in the "Slot" in the carrier.
Betwene the friction discs are spline steel plates
Did I mention that the back side of the gear has a 1/2" long spline area
to engage those discs.

the spring does NOT make the diff work, infact one can work perfectly
well for a considerable time if the spring is never installed... but the diff
operates better with the spring preload, because it helps to keep the
clutch slightly compressed and this saves time in SQUEEZING excess
oil from between the plates...

what does provide most of the locking force is the relationship and
shapes of the "spider" gears relative to the axle pinions.
essentially when power is applied the rotation of the carrier
pressing on the spider gear cross shaft and this pressing against
the spiders the shape of the tooth interface allows the spiders to
"wedge" the axle pinions outwards and further compress the clutch
packs.

The catch is that the diff requires SOME resistance to start this happening.
so if one tire has no traction at all...

AD