We all know that the current U.S. version splits power 50/50 to the front and rear via the viscous coupled center differential. I've been applying excessive throttle amounts to intentionally break the tires free on the snow and ice lately (I live in Colorado) and it got me thinking. Exactly how does the front open-type differential and rear mechanical limited-slip diff figure out which tire (left or right) gets power, when, and what percentage?

Anybody have insight here?

 

How does the sun set? Hows a rainbow made? How does the posi-trak rear end on a plymouth work?

It just does.



Sorry, couldn't resist. (for those that don't know what I'm talking about, go rent joe dirt)

 

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/differential.htm

 

it doesnt know

when all 4 tires are grabbing, then its 50/50

but since the front dif isnt limited slip, then most or all the power going to the front wheels is gonna go to 1 spinning wheel

but since the rear diff is limited-slip, if one the the back wheel start spinning, the diff is gonna try to send power to the other rear wheel