4x4 without locking rear differential - how does it work?

[BennyP92]

I'm looking to get a (hopefully) simple explanation of how 4x4 works without a rear locking diff. From what I can understand, if you engage 4wd high, the rear wheels will rotate at different rates, but with a locking diff, they are forced to turn at the same rate? But what happens to the front wheels? Are they forced to turn at the same rate or are they turning at different rates? Any info is greatly appreciated.

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[Dutch]

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[bbrptr]

Simple answer is in the name. A differential locker 'locks' wheels together in that they are forced to turn at the same rate. So yes, if you are in 4H with the rear locker off, the rear wheels can rotate at different rates such as turning or if are off-roading and manage to lift a wheel (all power that is being sent to that axle will go to that wheel since it is the path of least resistance). If the rear locker is engaged, the rear wheels are 'locked' together and forced to turn at the same rate. In this situation, the front wheels can turn at different rates too. Some vehicles, such as the Ranger Raptor, also have front lockers so if you are in 4wd with both front and rear lockers engaged, all wheels will turn at the same rate.

 

[BennyP92]

Simple answer is in the name. A differential locker 'locks' wheels together in that they are forced to turn at the same rate. So yes, if you are in 4H with the rear locker off, the rear wheels can rotate at different rates such as turning or if are off-roading and manage to lift a wheel (all power that is being sent to that axle will go to that wheel since it is the path of least resistance). If the rear locker is engaged, the rear wheels are 'locked' together and forced to turn at the same rate. In this situation, the front wheels can turn at different rates too. Some vehicles, such as the Ranger Raptor, also have front lockers so if you are in 4wd with both front and rear lockers engaged, all wheels will turn at the same rate.

I appreciate the response, thank you

 

[Highspeedplay]

At least with some decent software , the 4x4 will use the brakes to help transfer power to
the non slipping wheel it works ok at best but lockers are really what you want for Off road use. this may help decent in snow.

 

[Fix4Dirt]

An open differential operates in that power takes the path of least resistance, so if you put one tire on ice the other on pavement it will just spin on the ice. A locking diff locks the two so they are forced to spin at the same rate. If you are in 4x4 and lock the rear the rears are forced same rate but of the front tires the tire with less reisstance will get the power.

 

[RangerDangerStranger]

The disadvantage of an "Open" diiferential is that if either wheel lacks traction, it just spins, and the other wheel will not turn to get you on your way, It will just sit there, not turning. However, a Locker will lock the 2 wheels on an axel together, so even when one wheel lacks traction, the other wheel, if it does have something it can grab onto, witll power you out, because the 2 wheels are "Locked" together. The Rear locker is a cheap option on the Ranger available all the way to the most base XL. But only the Raptor gets a front locker. The Front wheels on a non raptor are an open Differntial, so if one wheels slips, it will go like crazy. But you have the rear locker to back you up, If you were smart enough to spec it. And why would anyone get a 4x4, and not get the locker?

 

[MuleMarine]

I'm looking to get a (hopefully) simple explanation of how 4x4 works without a rear locking diff. From what I can understand, if you engage 4wd high, the rear wheels will rotate at different rates, but with a locking diff, they are forced to turn at the same rate? But what happens to the front wheels? Are they forced to turn at the same rate or are they turning at different rates? Any info is greatly appreciated.

Generally speaking, an axel will send power to the tire with the least amount of resistance. This makes for a comfortable driving vehicle in normal driving conditions, especially in town or the city. Unfortunately, in a situation where maximum traction is needed, only the tire with the least amount of resistance will spin. This is known as an "open" differential. A locker, or "locked" differential will send power to both wheels no matter the amount of resistance. Super great for limited traction environments, but makes for an uncomfortable drive around town or in hard pavement as it does now allow the wheels to travel at different speeds (especially handy when cornering) and therefore results in some pretty harsh driving, as well as expedited wear on your trans, transf case, axle components, and driveshaft.

 

[jjbrooks]

"And why would anyone get a 4x4, and not get the locker?"

Literally one of two additions that were must haves on my 24 XLT sport. 301a convenance package, rear locker. Surprisingly rare. Glad I have the pushbutton and not screen locker.

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