A locking differential, which mechanically binds the left and right axle shafts together. When engaged, it overrides the differential action, ensuring equal power goes to both wheels regardless of traction. Off-road drivers use it to prevent one wheel from spinning uselessly in mud or air, but leaving it engaged on dry pavement causes severe binding and tire scrub.
Heard on the job
Hit the diff lock before we drop into this mud hole so we don't get stuck.
Also heard as
- locker
Related terms
Diff
The gear assembly that allows driven wheels to rotate at different speeds during a turn.
Locking differential
An axle mechanism that mechanically binds the left and right wheels together to spin at identical speeds.
Limited-slip differential
A differential that transfers torque to the wheel with the most traction to prevent wheelspin.