What's the Deal with Diffs?

Menlyn Gearbox also specializes in Diffs. But what is actually a Diff and, more important, what does it do? Have a look at underneath video for a short, sweet & simple explanation:

What’s the Deal with Diffs? It's short for ‘Differential’ which has the job of balancing the speed of your car’s drive wheels.

When a car is turning a corner the inside wheels have slightly less distance to travel than the outside wheels. The ‘differential’ as its name suggests, compensates for the difference.

Front Wheel Drive

Now, if you drive a front wheel drive vehicle then this function is handled by the trans axel, however its role is the same.

Rear Wheel Drive

For the more traditional rear wheel drive, the differential is located on the rear axle.

4 Wheel Drive

On 4WD drives and all wheel drive vehicles you’ll have a differential on both front and rear axles and a transfer case that handles the difference of power as required from front to rear.

Maintenance & Service

As differentials have to cope with enormous amounts of torque and strain, they are manufactured as heavy duty components relying on oil to keep them cool and lubricated. Like all oils they do wear out and need replacing from time to time… along with a number of seals which are located at the junction of the universal joint and at the end of each axel.

The good news is, you can have your Diff serviced at Menlyn Gearbox & Diff Centre, and you oil level and seals will be inspected and replaced if needed.

It’s all about putting your safety first by getting on top of things early… saving you headaches – and money.

Contact Menlyn Gearbox & Diff Centre for all things Differential!