What is a Torsen Rear End?
The regular differential used in most vehicles is an OPEN differential. An OPEN differential distributes power (torque) equally to both rear wheels. Even though the power is distributed equally the wheels are allowed to spin at different speeds. A locked differential (or Spooler) is one that distributes its power (torque) unequally while the wheels rotate at the same speed. The problem is that requiring wheels to rotate at the same speed is not possible in tight turns when the inside wheels must rotate more slowly than the outside wheels. The problem with the open differential is when one wheel has traction problems. (i.e. picture one wheel stuck in a snow drift while one is on the street.) The tire that is slipping gets just as much power as the one not moving, it continues to spin while you just sit there unmoving. So much for the class on Open and Closed Differentials. The “Torque Sensing” Torsen behaves like both differentials. It acts as an open differential until one tire is spin
