Rear Drive Axle and Differential: Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
Extended use of other than matching size spare tires on a Traction-Lok® axle could result in a permanent reduction of the axle's ability to provide added traction on slippery surfaces. This loss of effectiveness does not affect normal driving and should not be noticeable to the driver.
The pressure between differential clutch packs opposes differential action at all times. When the vehicle turns a corner, the differential clutch pack slips, allowing normal differential action to take place. Under adverse weather conditions, in which 1 or both wheels are on a low traction surface, such as snow, ice or mud, the friction between the clutch plates will transfer a portion of the usable torque to the wheel with the most traction. Thus, the wheel that is on ice or snow will have a tendency to operate with the opposite wheel in a combined driving effort.