Locking Differential Description and Operation: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The locking differential consists of the following components:

Differential case - 1 or 2 piece
Locking differential spider - 2 piece case only
Pinion gear shaft - 1 piece case only
Differential pinion gear shaft lock bolt - 1 piece case only
2 clutch discs sets
Locking differential side gear
Thrust block
Locking differential clutch disc guides
Differential side gear shim
Locking differential clutch disc thrust washer
Locking differential governor
Latching bracket
Cam plate assembly
Differential pinion gears
Differential pinion gear thrust washers

The optional locking differential (RPO G80) enhances the traction capability of the rear axle by combining the characteristics of a limited-slip differential and the ability of the axle shafts to "lock" together when uneven traction surfaces exist. The differential accomplishes this in 2 ways. First by having a series of clutch plates at each side of the differential case to limit the amount of slippage between each wheel. Second, by using a mechanical locking mechanism to stop the rotation of the right differential side gear, or the left differential side gear on the 10.5 inch axle, in order to transfer the rotating torque of the wheel without traction to the wheel with traction. Each of these functions occur under different conditions.