General System Description

The automatic locking differential (ASD) engages the differential lock only when needed, and is electronically controlled. A function indicator lamp, located in the speedometer shows engagement.
Signals from the speed sensors are relayed to the ASD control unit which processes an average speed of the front and rear wheels. The control unit uses this information to send a signal to the solenoid valve in the hydraulic unit. The hydraulic oil is stored under pressure and then within fractions of a second is sent from the pressure reservoir to the differential housing at the rear axle. The hydraulic clamping force of the multi-disc clutch locks together the differential rotation between the rear wheels. This lockup transfers the road torque lost by the slipping wheel to the wheel with traction.