Menu

Shop

Garage

Cart

Account

Products to Compare (max of 3)
X
Compare These Parts

Open vs. Limited Slip Differentials

9/19/2016
Add Article To List
Tags: Tech

So just what exactly is the difference between an open or standard differential and a limited-slip? We will get to that, but first a little knowledge. The differential has essentially three jobs. It transfers power from the engine to the wheels. It varies this power so that the wheels may rotate independently (thus the term “differential”). Lastly, the differentials act as the final gear reduction drive system for the drivetrain.

So what is the difference?

With an open/ standard differential, gears called spider gears allow the wheels to vary speeds to negotiate turns without binding up. This setup works great for the majority of passenger vehicles on the road today. If you are running an open differential and you hit a loose patch, the differential will send power to the wheel that is encountering the least resistance. This results in wheel spin on the loose patch side, while the solid contact side barely moves. While the majority of OEM vehicles are equipped with an open style differential, there are options for those of us who might be known to mark our territory with a rubber stripe.

Limited slip differentials operate in a manner opposite an open system. When a limited slip diff senses that a wheel is spinning, it will automatically transmit more power to the wheel that has more traction. These differentials will not divert 100% of the power to one wheel though. Limited slip differentials work well in nearly all vehicles where traction may be occasionally needed. I am sure you have heard the term “PosiTraction” used in place of limited slip, that originally was used by GM years ago and has become a generic term associated with a style of product, much like Kleenex, Band-Aid, and Q-Tip.

Speedway Motors carries a variety of differentials to suit your needs. Limited slip, open, and locking differentials, we should have what you’re looking for. To check out our selection, Click Here. Happy Shopping!

Products Featured in this Article

Related Articles

How Big of Tires Can I Fit - Plus Sizing Guide
by Mark Houlahan - Posted in Tech
3/7/2023
Changing your tire’s profile, be it width, height, or both, can provide increased traction, braking, and handling. Learn more in our guide.
67-72 C10 Rust Repair: Cab Floor & Rocker Panel Replacement
by Joe McCollough - Posted in Tech
3/6/2023
Like many, we found ourselves with a rusty C10 project. Watch as we show how to tackle common 67-72 C10 rust repair, including floor pan replacement, rocker panel replacement, and cab corner repair.
Mopar Flexplate Identification Guide
by Mark Houlahan - Posted in Tech
1/25/2023
Determining the correct flexplate for your V8 Mopar-powered project takes a little understanding of how these engines were balanced. Our Mopar flexplate buyer’s guide will help.
Filling Trim Holes in Car Body: Sheet Metal Welding Tips
by Jefferson Bryant - Posted in Tech
1/20/2023
How to eliminate unwanted to holes in your car's body, trunk, floor, or firewall with easy to use patch plugs from Speedway Motors.
Ford Flexplate Identification Guide
by Mark Houlahan - Posted in Tech
1/13/2023
Ford’s small block and big block engine families have their share of flexplate differences. We’ll show you what to look for in this buyer’s guide.
Cleaning and Caring for Your Car's Paint
by Speedway Tech Team - Posted in Tech
1/13/2023
Maintaining your car's paint finish is essential to keep it looking great. It doesn't have to be hard, and we offer some tips to keep your car's finish in top shape.
Q&A With Our Race Experts: Tuning and Maintenance Tips
by Joe McCollough - Posted in Tech
1/12/2023
We talked to a few of our in-house race experts about ways to make this racing season your best one yet!
LS Engine Flexplate Fitment Guide
by Mark Houlahan - Posted in Videos
1/11/2023
The LS swap is no doubt still going strong, but if you’re planning to run an automatic behind your 4.8, 5.3, or 6.0L LS-powered ride, you’ll need to pay attention to a few items we discuss in this buyer’s guide.
Small Block and Big Block Chevy Engine Flexplate Guide
by Mark Houlahan - Posted in Tech
1/11/2023
Over several generations of small block Chevy (and big block Chevy) engines there have been several changes that dictate what flexplate works with them. We’ll help you determine the correct flexplate for your Chevy engine in this buyer’s guide.
How to Adapt LS Engine to 700R4 or Turbo 350 Transmissions
by Joe McCollough - Posted in Tech
1/6/2023
We show you how to keep that old GM transmission when swapping in an LS engine. Our LS swap adapter kits make it easy!
Error
X
Note
X
Ok