What is a differential? What are the signs and symptoms of differential failure? What are the parts and types of differential ?….
What is Differential?
The differential is an integral part of your vehicle’s front and/or back axle assemblies. The vehicle’s wheels move at different speeds and distances during a turn. The inner wheels travel less depending on the angle of the turn. Cornering, the car draws a circle. As the car corners, the outer wheels must turn more quickly as they draw a wider circle. This is when the differential activates. It allows the wheels to spin at different speeds. Without a differential, all the wheels would rotate at the same speed. This would make it difficult for the vehicle to turn and cause damage to the axle or chassis. This is the mechanical gear that controls the situation and transmits power to each wheel according to it.
Different types
Open Differential
The oldest type of differential in automobiles is the open differential. The engine torque is equally transmitted to both wheels. This means that the traction force applied to both wheels is the equal. Different rotation speeds for the wheels when bent. The only problem with its design is that if one of the wheels slips or spins, it transmits all power and torque to the wheel with the lowest traction. If the vehicle gets stuck in mud, for example, all engine power is transferred to that wheel, and not to the one on dry ground. All engine power goes to the wheel with least traction.
Locked Differential
This differential transfers engine power equally to all wheels, and equalizes rotational speeds. It prevents the vehicle skidding in difficult terrain, such as mud, sand, or snow. It can be used in pickups, as well as off-road vehicles.
Limit-Slip Differential
The limited-slip diff is identical to the open, but has an integrated clutch. The clutch system locks the left and right axle shafts together when one wheel loses traction. The rotational speeds of the wheels will be equalized in this manner. Even though one of the wheels may spin, the other will still have power and the vehicle can move. This is used in drag racing and high-performance vehicles that haul heavy loads.
Differential Torque-Vectoring
The Torque-Vectoring Differential represents the most advanced technology. Torque vectoring utilizes advanced sensor technology to extract data from steering system, throttle position, roads surface, and other parameters. Based on the information it receives, it adjusts each wheel’s rotational speed and force. This ensures maximum performance in corners and greatly increases the vehicle’s traction power.
Differential Failure Symptoms
Modern vehicles use many fluids to lubricate the mechanical parts. The friction between metal components causes overheating. Overheating and wear can be prevented by lubricating them regularly. Regular oil inspections are necessary to ensure that components are properly lubricated.
A humming differential is the most obvious sign of a problem. A humming sound is heard when the gears begin to turn. This can be caused by the differential or gearbox. The sound intensity increases with increasing vehicle speed. This can be caused by oil leaking from the gears. Oil can also be dirty and loses its lubricating ability. To avoid any serious damage, the transmission and differential should be checked immediately.
Another sign is the vibrations you feel while driving. Vibrations can increase or decrease depending upon the vehicle’s speed.
As the differential oil gets more oily, the oil thickens and the oil smells like burning oil. This can cause damage to internal gears and other components due to excessive stress. Do not drive if there is a strong, burning smell.
- The vehicle moves and makes a noise that sounds like a grinding sound, a hum or squeaking. The sound intensity increases with increasing vehicle speed. The humming sound can sometimes be heard at specific intervals.
- Loss of control and difficulty controlling the vehicle around corners.
- Vibrations increase with vehicle speed
- Oily burning odors can occur when the vehicle moves.
- Tires with uneven wear
- The extra space between the mirrors and the bevel causes a knocking sound during the first vehicle start.
- Leakage of oil similar to engine oil can be seen underneath the vehicle.
What parts are Differentials made of?
- Housing and differential gearbox
- oil filler plug
- bevel gear
- pinion gear
- 2 axle gears
- 2 or 4 diagonal gears
