Trac-Lok Operation

DESCRIPTION
In a standard differential, if one wheel spins, the opposite wheel will generate only as much torque as the spinning wheel.
In the Trac-lok differential, part of the ring gear torque is transmitted through clutch packs which contain multiple discs. The clutches will have radial grooves on the plates, and concentric grooves on the discs or bonded fiber material that is smooth in appearance.


OPERATION

Fig. 3:

In operation, the Trac-lok clutches are engaged by two concurrent forces. The first being the preload force exerted through Belleville spring washers within the clutch packs. The second is the separating forces generated by the side gears as torque is applied through the ring gear (Fig, 3).
The Trac-lok design provides the differential action needed for turning corners and for driving straight ahead during periods of unequal traction. When one wheel loses traction, the clutch packs transfer additional torque to the wheel having the most traction. Trac-lok differentials resist wheel spin on bumpy roads and provide more pulling power when one wheel loses traction. Pulling power is provided continuously until both wheels lose traction. If both wheels slip due to unequal traction, Trac-lok operation is normal. In extreme cases of differences of traction, the wheel with the least traction may spin.