differential case of the limited-slip differential is often
made in two parts to allow for clutch pack removal, as
shown in Figure 16-18.
The discs and plates are applied by the preload
springs and by the mechanical pressure of the spider gears
on the side gears. Since the spider and side gears are bevel
gears, their teeth try to come out of engagement when the
differential is transmitting engine torque. This creates a
Chapter 16 Rear Axle Assembly Construction and Operation 317
Thrust
washer
Side gear
Thrust
washer
Spider
gear
Lockpin
Pinion
shaft
C-lock
Figure 16-12. This is an exploded view of the differential gears.
Note the relationship of the side and spider gears to each other.
Also note the thrust washers that separate the gears from the
case and the C-lock that holds the axle shaft in place. The pin-
ion shaft is held in place by a pin that passes through both the
shaft and differential case. (DaimlerChrysler)
Driving
straight ahead
Driving
around corner
Pinion
gear drives
Side gears
and drive
axles turn
same on
both sides
Spider gears
locked, assembly
rotates as
solid unit
Ring gear
driven
Side gear
and drive
axle
Left drive
axle turning
faster
Spider gears
now turning
Right drive
axle turning
slower B A
Figure 16-13. Differential action is shown here. Note the use of four spider gears, rather than the regular two. A—Straight ahead:
Differential case gears turn as a unit. Both the drive axles and differential case are turning at the same speed. B—Right turn: The
left axle is moving faster than the right axle. The left side gear drives the pinion gears. The pinion gears turn and walk around the
right side gear. Note that the differential works the same way for a left turn, except the action of the left and right sides is reversed.
(Deere & Co.)
Outer wheel
110% case speed
Inner wheel
90% case speed
100% differential
case speed
Pinion gears rotate
on pinion shaft
Figure 16-14. The speed of the differential case on turns is the
average of the side gear speeds. (DaimlerChrysler)