Ford Rear 8.8 Inch Ring Gear-Traction-LOK Differential

Description




The Limited Slip axle assembly, except for the differential case and its internal components, is identical to the conventional axle.

The Limited Slip differential employs two sets of multiple-disc clutches to control differential action. The side gear mounting distance is controlled by seven plates on each side: four steel, three friction, and one steel shim. This steel shim is of the selective type to control side gear position.

The plates are stacked on the side gear hub and are housed in the differential case. Also located in the differential case, between the side gears, is a one-piece pre-load spring, which applies an initial force to the clutch packs. Additional clutch capacity is delivered from the side gears thrust loads. Splined plates are splined to the side gear hubs which, in turn, are splined to the left and right axle shalt. The eared friction plates are dogged to the case, thus, the clutch packs are always engaged.

Operation




The pressure between clutch plates opposes differential action at all times. When the vehicle turns a corner the clutch slips, allowing normal differential action to take place. Under adverse weather conditions, where one or both wheels may be on a low-traction surface such as snow, ice or mud, the friction between the clutch plates will transfer a portion of the usable torque to the wheel with the most traction. Thus, the wheel that is on ice or snow will have a tendency to operate with the opposite wheel in a combined driving effort.

CAUTION: Extended use of other than conventional spare tires on a Traction-Lok rear axle could result in reduction in effectiveness (bias torque). This loss of effectiveness does not affect normal driving and should not be noticeable to the driver. However, extended usage will reduce the ability of the axle to provide added traction on slippery surfaces.

Noise Acceptability

A gear-driven unit (especially on a drive axle) will produce a certain amount of noise. Some noise is acceptable and may be audible at certain speeds or under various driving conditions. For example, as on a newly paved blacktop road. The slight noise is in no way detrimental to operation of the rear axle and must be considered normal.

NOTE: Vehicles equipped with a Limited-Slip differential may exhibit a slight stick-slip noise on tight turns after extended highway driving. This is considered acceptable and has no detrimental effect.