differential gear
Axle torque splitter
A differential gear is a mechanism that allows wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds—essential when a vehicle turns, since the outer wheel must travel farther than the inner wheel.
Found in automobiles between the drive wheels, it transmits power while accommodating this difference.
Often shortened to differential or diff: The rear differential needs rebuilding.
Vehicle power transmission system
- powertrainVehicle propulsion system
- transmissionSending of information
- axleShaft for wheel rotation
- drive shaftRotating torque-transfer bar
gearbox · four-wheel drive · all-wheel drive · rear-wheel drive · front-wheel drive · transfer case · driveline · final drive
Toothed wheel in differentials
Secure manual hold
- traction controlSystem limiting wheel spin
- wheel spinTires rotating without grip
- oversteerExcessive rear rotation
- understeerFront-wheel traction loss
Forcing into position
- turning radiusSmallest circular path possible
- mechanical advantageForce output over input
drivetrain
Vehicle power transmission system
- powertrainVehicle propulsion system
- transmissionSending of information
- axleShaft for wheel rotation
drive shaft · gearbox · four-wheel drive · all-wheel drive · rear-wheel drive · front-wheel drive · transfer case · driveline · final drive · transaxle
crown wheel
Toothed wheel in differentials
grip
Secure manual hold
- traction controlSystem limiting wheel spin
- wheel spinTires rotating without grip
- oversteerExcessive rear rotation
cornering
Forcing into position
- turning radiusSmallest circular path possible
- mechanical advantageForce output over input
- gearscog, worm gears, pinion, cogs, rack
differential gearspool
Cylinder for winding material
locker · solid axle · direct drive · live axle · transmission
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