Can somebody explain Limited slip diff
Discussion
A standard differential allows the power to be distributed between the wheels in such a way as the wheels can rotate at different speeds.
This is important because when you go around a corner the inside wheel travels less far than the outside one. If there were no differential, sometimes called a spool type differential, the when you go around a corner, the wheels would be forced to loose adhesion.
Then you have the further problem that a standard differential will direct the power the easiest way. If one of a pair of wheels, driven by a differential, has no grip unfortunately that wheel will spin, and the one with grip will not get any power.
That's where the LSD comes in. Usually there is a friction device, like a small clutch which monitors the relative speeds of the wheels driven by the differential. If one wheel is rotating considerably faster than the other, the the differential is progressively locked. This causes the wheel with the grip, but that is not rotating to receive more torque. The LSD will provide a compromise between the spinning wheel with no grip, and the other stationary wheel with lots of grip.
This ensures that you have, at least some, traction in slippery conditions.
The LSD may have prevented your slide, but there are so many factors involved, it would be hard to say for sure. It is reasonable to assume that an LSD would help to prevent instant and accidental loss of traction.
This is important because when you go around a corner the inside wheel travels less far than the outside one. If there were no differential, sometimes called a spool type differential, the when you go around a corner, the wheels would be forced to loose adhesion.
Then you have the further problem that a standard differential will direct the power the easiest way. If one of a pair of wheels, driven by a differential, has no grip unfortunately that wheel will spin, and the one with grip will not get any power.
That's where the LSD comes in. Usually there is a friction device, like a small clutch which monitors the relative speeds of the wheels driven by the differential. If one wheel is rotating considerably faster than the other, the the differential is progressively locked. This causes the wheel with the grip, but that is not rotating to receive more torque. The LSD will provide a compromise between the spinning wheel with no grip, and the other stationary wheel with lots of grip.
This ensures that you have, at least some, traction in slippery conditions.
The LSD may have prevented your slide, but there are so many factors involved, it would be hard to say for sure. It is reasonable to assume that an LSD would help to prevent instant and accidental loss of traction.
Edited by dilbert on Monday 13th November 12:36
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