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Date:         Mon, 8 Mar 1999 20:07:13 EST
Reply-To:     Jwilli941@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Todd Hill <Jwilli941@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Syncro Differential Lock-reply
Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII

justin@BAYAREA.NET writes:

<< What does it do? >>

Vanagons, like most cars and trucks, come with an 'open' differential. Jack up one rear tire and with the engine running release the clutch. What happens? The tire up in the air spins merrily along while the tire on the ground doesn't move. This makes for a nice smooth transfer of power from one side to the other during cornering. Remember that the inside tire has less distance to travel than the outside tire on a turn. Without this 'slippage' you'd be dragging the inside tire sideways everytime you took a corner. The locking diff does just what it is called. It locks both sides in so that power is transmitted evenly to both wheels regardless of traction or cornering. This is very nice if you are stuck in the mud or snow and have a straight line out. Since both tires grab and turn and the same speed this is why the owner's manual states that the locker is to be only used for straight line driving for a short distance or until you are free. Afterwards you have to 'unlock' the diff or play silly buggers trying to take the next corner!

Do you need it? Depends on how and where you drive. Is it required? No, but its nice to have something and not need it rather than need something and not have it.

-Todd Hill VolksWerks Transaxles Olympia, WA 360-412-0948


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