Item name | Spare part number | Description |
1 | - | Right front axle shaft |
2 | - | Front differential assembly |
3 | - | Front drive shaft |
4 | - | Left front axle shaft |
The front differential changes the torque transmission angle by 90°and distributes the moment between the front wheels through the axle shafts.
The front differentials for V6 and V8 petrol models have the same gear ratios. Gear ratios in models with a TdV6 engine differ depending on which gearbox is installed: automatic or manual.
The front differential is mounted on the left side of the chassis.
The principle of operation of the differential
Front and rear differentials have the same principle of operation. The rotational movement of the cardan shaft is transmitted through the primary flange to the pinion shaft and pinion gear. The angular location of the drive gear in relation to the driven gear ensures the transmission of rotational motion at an angle of 90°.
Further, the rotational movement is transmitted to the driven gear, which, in turn, sets the cup in motion. The shaft attached to the cup rotates at the same speed as the cup. The planetary gears mounted on the shaft also rotate with the cup. The planetary gears in turn transmit rotational motion to the right and left sun gears, which turn the drive shafts.
When the vehicle is moving in a straight line, the torques transmitted by the differential to each sun gear are the same. In this state, both drive shafts rotate at the same speed. The planetary gears do not rotate and securely fix the sun gears to the cup.
When the car turns, the outer wheel rotates at a higher speed and travels longer than the inner wheel. The differential determines the difference in torque between the sun gears. The planetary gears begin to rotate on their axles, allowing the outer wheel to turn faster than the inner one.
Service
The differential uses Castrol SAF-XO oil. This oil contains unique additives that improve differential performance. Do not use any other oil in the front differential.
Repairable front differential parts
- Axle seals
- Needle roller bearings assy
- Chassis sleeve/reinforcement
- Grease.
Comments on this article