Can the Inter-Axle Differential Lock Turn?

[McAriana]

The inter-axle differential lock can turn. The function of the differential lock: It is designed to enhance the vehicle's off-road capability on poor road surfaces. When one driving axle spins freely, it can quickly lock the differential, turning the two driving axles into a rigid connection. Differential locks can be categorized based on their locking mechanisms into: Forced locking type, high-friction self-locking type, jaw clutch type, Torsen type, and viscous coupling type. The inter-axle differential lock refers to locking the differential between two axles, which is normally not engaged. The inter-axle differential allows the middle and rear axles to rotate at different speeds, primarily suitable for uneven terrains such as mines, foamed roads, construction sites, etc.

[LaEloise]

As an off-road enthusiast, I can tell you that engaging the inter-axle differential lock while turning is extremely dangerous. This device forces both wheels to rotate synchronously, making the vehicle move straight like tank tracks. However, when turning on paved roads, the inner wheel needs to rotate slower than the outer wheel. With the lock engaged, it forcibly grinds against the ground, making the steering wheel abnormally heavy and causing tires to screech loudly. Last year, I witnessed someone turning on a mountain road with the differential lock engaged, resulting in a broken axle shaft. Remember to only use it briefly for straight-line recovery, unlock it immediately after successful recovery, and always confirm the indicator light is off before turning.

[ArthurAnn]

After driving trucks for twenty years, the differential lock is the feature I use with the utmost caution. When that thing is engaged, the entire drivetrain becomes a rigid structure. It might barely work for low-speed turns on gravel roads, but it's absolutely a no-go on asphalt. Last week at a service area, I saw a young guy making turns in the parking lot with the differential lock engaged—not only were his tires screeching and smoking, but the transmission was also making alarming clunking noises. Always pay close attention to the dashboard warning lights during normal driving; there’s a clear indicator when the differential lock is activated. If you see it, find a safe spot to stop and disengage it. A quick glance at the dashboard before turning on highways can save you tens of thousands in repair costs.

[AlexisAnn]

Having repaired over a thousand 4WD vehicles, I've frequently encountered issues caused by improper use of differential locks. When engaged, the differential forcibly locks, synchronizing the rotation speeds of both wheels. Turning under this condition creates mechanical interference, leading to accelerated tire wear at best, or gear breakage at worst. One owner forgot to disengage the lock while turning in the city, resulting in a cracked differential housing during maintenance. The correct procedure is to engage the lock only for straight-line recovery when stuck, and disengage immediately afterward. Always ensure the differential is unlocked before making turns.

[ColinLee]

From an automotive engineering perspective, differential locks are designed for special operating conditions. When engaged, the drivetrain eliminates speed differences between wheels, proving highly effective for extricating vehicles from snowy or icy surfaces. However, turning requires speed differentials between inner and outer wheels - locking on paved roads during turns creates parasitic power phenomena. Last year's test track data showed differential lock engagement during dry-surface turns caused a 40% sudden increase in driveshaft torque, severely threatening component lifespan. Therefore, the lock must always be disengaged before turning.