Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Limited-Slip Differential Operation Check

To demonstrate the proper performance of the limited-slip differential:

Place one wheel on good, dry surface and the other wheel on ice, mud, snow or greased sheet of plywood.

Gradually open throttle to obtain maximum traction prior to "break-away". The ability to move the vehicle will demonstrate proper performance of a limited slip axle.

When starting with one wheel on an excessively slippery surface, a slight application of the parking brake may be necessary to help energize the limited slip feature of the differential. Release the brake when traction is established. Use light throttle on starting to provide maximum traction.

In vehicle operation, it should be noted that:

1. If, with unequal traction, both wheels slip, the limited-slip axle has done all it can possibly do.

2. In extreme cases of differences in traction, the wheel with the least traction may spin after the limited slip has transferred as much torque as possible to the non-slipping wheel.

WARNING: A VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH A LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL WILL ALWAYS HAVE BOTH WHEELS DRIVING. DRIVING THE AXLE WITH THE ENGINE AND ONLY ONE WHEEL RAISED OFF THE GROUND IS NOT A RECOMMENDED PRACTICE WITH EITHER THE LIMITED-SLIP OR CONVENTIONAL AXLE DUE TO THE DANGER OF THE VEHICLE DRIVING OFF THE STAND OR JACK.