WHY DO LIMITED-SLIP/POSI DIFFERENTIALS FALL SHORT?
As the name implies, limited-slip/posi differentials limit or reduce wheel slippage, but do not eliminate it. By applying friction with clutches or cones to the side gears inside the differential, unwanted wheel slippage is reduced. The degree of reduced wheel slippage is determined by the amount of friction, or “breakaway torque,” applied to the side gears. While performance varies from one design to another, as little as 15% to 25% of engine torque will be delivered to the higher traction wheel when new and will decline with use. Although better than open differentials, limited-slip/posi differentials do not provide the maximum traction capabilities of locking differentials.
