Why are differentials needed?
- They allow the wheels to turn independently of each other.
- To “turn” the drive shaft power 90 degrees.
- To act as the final powertrain gear reduction.
- To help control traction (if so equipped)
Types of differentials
- Open (standard) differential: the original solution to a universal problem
- Limited slip differential (LSD): getting some power to the other wheel
- Locking differential: can transfer 100% of power to both drive wheels equally