What is the function of the Differential Lock

[fbson395]

Hi, Since I'm new with my tractor. What is the function of the differential Lock? When would one use it? No such thing as a stupid question, Is their? I'll Listen!

 

[Runner]

The purpose of the differential is to allow the wheels to turn at different speeds so it's easier to turn and doesn't tear up the grass. However, wien you are on a slick surface, that same feature will allow one wheel to spin, thus turning your tractor (or truck or whatever) into a one- wheel drive vehicle (assuming you aren't in 4 wheel drive at the time).

The diff. lock does just what it says: Locks the differentail gears so that both wheels are forced to turn at once (for better traction). I'm pretty sure my manual says that you shouldn't be using it when you are trying to turn because it is hard on the components (and your grass).

Hope this helps.

 

[johndeerejohn]

Differential lock puts equal power to both tires (typically rear tires on tractors) a differential lets one wheel turn at a faster or slower speed than the opposite side making turning easier. the draw back to this is that it puts power to the tire with the least amount of traction. by locking the differential you get equal power, equal speed to both wheels basically doubling traction. i hope this helps clear things up for you.

 

[Gale Hawkins]

Keep in mind you can only go straight as long as it is locked. Test it and see how easy it of it to unlock automatically. Older tractors that have not seen any use of the differential lock may require upward force on the pedal to regain control of the tractor.

It is a great feature. Just do not use it when your are 2 foot from a 20' drop off.

Seriously you will think you are on a tracked dozer with NO steering controls.

 

[fbson395]

Thank You Both for the information. This will help to know what it's for.

 

[DanD78]

Do not engage the differental lock if your wheels are spinning. Stop all wheel movement then engage the lock. I am sure there will be those that will argue this but thinnk about it. Trying to lock gears together that are turning two different speeds. It can't be good. Some tractors you have to tap a brake to un lock the gears.

Dan

 

[MikeInMaine]

All good information posted above.

Also, if your tractor has 4-wheel drive, on a very slippery surface, due to the differential, your tractor can effectively become a 3-wheel drive tractor. The diff. lock will help engage that other rear wheel that has stopped spinning.

 

[dex3361]

Keep in mind that sometimes the gears may not be meshing (one gear tooth sitting directly on top of the gear it needs to mesh with). If this is the case do not force it just put a little pressure on the lever and start easing forward and you will fell the gears drop into mesh. The last thing you want to do is be under full power spinning the wheels and engage the diff lock this could cause damage.:thumbsup:

 

[RalphVa]

I've gotten out of trouble many times by pressing on the differential lock bar. It makes both rear tires go together. Only engage when stopped. It auto disengages when you get unstuck and stop.

Ralph

 

[TripleR]

Tractors are going to vary, so some simply will not engage while at a full stop. I stop and try it and if it won't engage, I move slowly with pressure on the lock until it engages. On a couple I have had to turn the steering wheel from side to side a little.