What is a limited-slip differential and how does it work?
They work by shifting a portion of the torque to the wheel with the most traction while limiting the slip on the wheel with the least traction. Because of this, limited slip differentials are often referred to as “torque sensing”. Like an open differential, the wheels can rotate at different speeds.
Does limited-slip differential really work?
It also means less wear on tires due to loss of traction. A limited-slip differential effectively transfer torque to the wheel with more traction. In a RWD car, an LSD can prevent oversteer by mitigating a loss of grip during hard cornering. For FWD cars, LSDs are great for mitigating torque steer while cornering.
How do I know if my limited-slip differential is working?
The easiest way to tell if you have an open differential is to jack up the car and spin one of the rear tires. If the other wheel spins in the opposite direction, you have an open differential. If it spins in the same direction, you have a limited slip differential, or LSD.
Is limited slip good for off road?
A limited-slip differential is good for off-road driving as it transmits power to the wheels that still have traction and limits power to the slipping wheels. The wheel that still has traction will spin and steer the vehicle while the wheel that is slipping will stop.
Can you convert an open differential to limited slip?
In short yes. An open differential allows the wheels to move “slip” at different speeds, this is good for the basic commuter car turning as the outside wheel will travel further than the inside wheel.
Are limited slip worth it?
Safer. A limited slip differential increases the safety of a vehicle because it increases the control a driver has over the vehicle. A limited slip will help reduce tire slippage and reduce the chance you will spin.
Will my VIN tell me if I have a limited-slip differential?
Some manufacturers will specifically identify whether the model was shipped from the factory with a limited slip differential. VIN numbers may contain information that specify whether the vehicle was shipped from the manufacturer with a limited slip differential.
Does limited-slip differential help in rain?
In order to prevent this wheel from slipping on the road, the limited-slip differential takes away some of the torque energy from the slipping wheel. That is why it’s a huge benefit to use a limited-slip differential if you live in areas which commonly get snow, rain, mud, ice, and other nasty road conditions.