Limited slip and locking differentials
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| − | == | + | ==How to tell an open differential from a limited slip differential (LSD)== |
| − | + | Having both rear wheels spin under acceleration is not a positive indication of having a LSD. Under certain circumstances like when rear wheel traction is identical for both rear tires, an open diff can behave like a LSD. | |
| − | + | Under normal conditions if the rear wheels are lifted off the ground and one of these wheels is rotated, an '''open''' differential will allow the rear wheels rotate in ''opposite'' directions. A '''limited slip''' (or "posi") differential will allow both wheels to rotate in the ''same'' direction, and it will be very difficult to hold one wheel from rotating while the other wheel is being turned. But a damaged open diff or a diff that has been converted by using a spool or mini spool, or a diff that has had the spider gears welded (an old school, dangerous "backyard" method to get two-wheel traction all the time) will ALSO allow both wheels to rotate in the same direction. Conversely, a LSD with bent axle tubes, worn clutches, or a galled pinion gears and/or cross shaft may not allow both wheels to rotate in the same direction with the rear wheels off the ground. | |
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| − | So, checking for a differential being limited slip | + | So, checking for a differential being limited slip or not isn't as simple as jacking up the rear of the car and turning the wheels. The only way to be 100% certain of what type of differential is in the rearend is to remove the cover or drop the center section (like in the case of a rearend) and look inside. |
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|[[File:Lsdlube tag.jpg|thumb|center|300px|Posi lube tag]] | |[[File:Lsdlube tag.jpg|thumb|center|300px|Posi lube tag]] | ||
| − | + | |[[File:GM DIFF ID TAGS.jpg|thumb|center|300px|1955-'64 GM Hotchkiss rear end ID tags ]] | |
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| + | ===GM removable carrier type=== | ||
| + | The Hotchkiss type removable carrier rear end was used by GM for a number of years in passenger cars before GM started using the Salisbury type integral carrier rear end. The Pontiac/Olds versions from the later '50s were a drag racing mainstay for many years- even in front engined Top Fuel dragsters and Altereds. | ||
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| + | The Chevy version used various tags to designate the ratio. | ||
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==Resources== | ==Resources== | ||
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