Bad Center Diff?

[adkinsadam1]

Well, while off-roading up Lake Como road, we got to a sketchy section so my dad got out and videotaped. We got up on only two wheels and had the center differential locked. I thought that meant that all wheels were supposed to spin at the same rate. Well, according to the video, for a while the wheels in the air spun wildly while the ones with traction wouldn't spin at all. Is this how the locking center diff is supposed to function?

 

[Synister]

Locking the center diff just ensures that the front and rear axels spin at the same rate. Another way to think about it is power is split 50/50 front to rear. Now, if a wheel on the front axel has low traction, 100% of the power that axel receives will go to the tire with the least traction. Same with the rear. Basically, if any 3 wheels have traction you will be fine.

 

[adkinsadam1]

Oh I see now! Because one wheel on the front was without traction and one on the back was without traction! But, how does one explain this video?

YouTube - Toyota 4Runner Diff. Lock Demonstration

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Oh I see now! Because one wheel on the front was without traction and one on the back was without traction! But, how does one explain this video?

The video is referring to axle diff lock not a transfer case diff lock.

In the video the right front and left rear had no traction but the t-case was dividing the power evenly (like when your diff lock button is pushed). When they engaged the diff lock in the video they locked an axle right wheel to the left wheel. The dirt was dry, traction basically good and it just drove off.

When guys talk about putting in a "locker" (ARB brand usually) they are talking about installing a locking rear differential. The '09 Trail has a locking center differential AND a locking rear axle from the factory.

Unless modded most of us 4th gen guys just have the center diff lock.

When you were 'stuck' was the ATRAC trying to help? could you hear the ABS motor pumping the brakes?

 

[adkinsadam1]

Yes the ATRAC was helping. But, does the new 2010 Trail have a locking rear axle? And here is a photo of the exact time I was talking about on Lake Como Road. I'll have to upload the videos from that day later. But now my skid plates are practically trashed.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Yes the ATRAC was helping. But, does the new 2010 Trail have a locking rear axle? And here is a photo of the exact time I was talking about on Lake Como Road. I'll have to upload the videos from that day later. But now my skid plates are practically trashed.

Nice pic

Yes, the 2010 has the locking rear differential and a more aggressive ATRAC to help the front pull better when the back has little/no traction.

 

[DC Dude]

After switching to 4LO and then diff lock, I thought the vehicle had to be moving before the center differential can lock?

 

[CJ3Flyr]

After switching to 4LO and then diff lock, I thought the vehicle had to be moving before the center differential can lock?

A slight movement or D to R to D is often times enough. The key is steady dash lights. Flashing lights indicates it's in transition.


And yes, moving is generally the preferred method.:cheers:

 

[jwyshrek]

It is a long read, but can give you insight to the situation you were in...

http://www.4x4abc.com/4WD101/one-tire-spinning.html