The Differential - the Key to 4WD
 The primary function of a
differential is to transfer power to the wheels while allowing them to turn independently at different (hence the name) speeds. What this means is that when going straight equal traction is supplied to all wheels,
yet while the vehicle is turning, the inside wheel, which has the most resistance and a shorter distance to travel when taking a turn, is able to go
at a slower rate than the outside wheel which has the least resistance, a longer travel radius, and must turn faster.
 In mathematical terms, speed is equal to the
distance traveled divided by the time it takes to go that distance, so consequently the wheels that travel a shorter distance travel at a lower
speed. You may also want to take a look at How Stuff Works for a more in depth
explanation and demonstration of Differentials.
 To make a long story short, and to keep this section
simple, the most common differential is called an Open Differential and is the standard setup used for most Jeeps. While this set up works
just fine for normal on-road driving, you can probably see that for off-roading this isn't the ideal set up when you consider that going through
mud and goo is part of the fun and what off-roading is all about.
LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL
Limited Slip
Differentials, also called positraction, while not true lockers, are an option for light duty off-roading and the casual weekend warrior. They use
various mechanisms to allow normal differential action when going around turns, yet when a wheel slips they allow more torque to be transferred to
the slower moving wheel.
For light duty, casual off-roading we suggest you
weight the advantages and disadvantages of the Lockers listed below and make a decision based on your individual preference. If you have any
questions, call us and we'll help you select the Locker right for your vehicle.
LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL
Locking Differentials,
generally simply called Lockers, are for serious off-roading and challening trails. They are automatic lockers providing 100% traction, 100% of the
time on both driving axles.
A typical full time locker is the Detroit Locker®, now updated to the SofLocker and also known as the NoSPIN®
AIR-LOCKERS
If
you're willing to lay out some big bucks for a locker, the ARB® Air Locker can't be beat. Because of the
ARB's ability to engage and disengage at the press of a button it's one of the most popular heavy-duty lockers on the market.
Call for pricing. 1-800-770-2617
Want to learn
more? Stu Olson compares ARB vs. Detroit lockers .. visit his site ..
 The Great Locker Debate
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