How does a power divider work on a semi?
The power divider is a driver-controlled, air-actuated traction device that when operated in the unlocked position allows for speed differences between the forward and rear tandem drive shafts while providing equal pulling power from each axle of the tandem.
How fast can you drive with power divider?
There is no speed or handling restrictions for vehicle operation with the IAD lock engaged, but for best axle performance and minimum tire wear ALWAYS unlock the IAD lock when favorable road conditions return. When the DCDL is locked, the vehicle must be operated at 25 mph or less.
What is a cross lock diff?
Rear axle wheel differential locks, or cross locks as they are sometimes referred to, are also driver-controlled and operated by the carrier-mounted air-actuated shift unit. When the diff lock is engaged, it positively locks the wheel differential to provide improved traction under adverse road conditions.
Which is the drive axle on a semi truck?
If your referring to the dual drive on most semi trucks. The rear axle is there more for it’s load carrying than the traction. The dual axle drive is in fact a carry over from the military spec trucks of the 40s.
How do you lock a differential?
To lock the differential, you turn on a switch manually, and the two output pistons, which would normally be controlling the two wheels separately, are locked together so however fast one wheel goes, the other wheel rotates at the same speed.
When would you use a power divider?
Power Divider Function This differential can be locked and unlocked by the driver in situations when there is little or no traction for the drive wheels. When engaged, the power divider delivers more power to the wheels that have grip and less or none to those that are slipping.
Which trucks have locking differentials?
However, some modern 4WDs, such as the Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner (TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims only), Ford F-series and Ranger trucks, GMC Sierra AT4, Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, Dodge RAM 1500, among others, have a rear diff lock.
What is a differential lock on a semi truck?
The simple answer is a differential lock (or diff lock) locks both wheels on the same axle in order for the wheels to spin at the same rpm. A power divider (also known as an Inter-Axle Differential or IAD) is a separate differential box that locks the first and second differentials in a tandem truck into place.
When should I lock my differential?
First, a diff lock should not be engaged for on road driving, unless weather conditions such as snow or ice mean that extra traction is required. Use your locking differential when you want to go off road, for driving on difficult terrain, such as dirt, gravel, mud or snow.
Where is the power divider on a semi truck?
The power divider is a separate differential box located between the already existing two differential boxes at the rear end of the truck. This differential can be locked and unlocked by the driver in situations when there is little or no traction for the drive wheels.
How are wheels powered when power divider is off?
A axle differential allows the wheels to turn at different speeds while still having power to both of them, the power divider is an inter-axle differential to allow the front and rear drive axles to operate at different speeds (like if your rear drive tires have more wear than you fronts). In order for it to work, both both sides need traction.
Why does a tractor trailer have a power divider?
The semi or tractor-trailer truck engine and drivetrain are complicated mechanical systems designed to create the most pulling power. The power divider is common on large trucks and aims to provide better traction for the driver in certain situations.
What’s the difference between a differential lock and a power divider?
What is the Difference Between a Differential Lock and a Power Divider? The simple answer is a differential lock (or diff lock) locks both wheels on the same axle in order for the wheels to spin at the same rpm.