Differential Lock - MG RX8 Manual

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Differential Lock

To enhance the vehicle driveability and its capability of
getting out of dangers when driving under poor road
conditions, some models are equipped with mechanical
differential locks. The differential lock is located in the rear
axle housing. Under normal road conditions (when the
differential lock is not activated), the power is transmitted
to drive wheels on both sides evenly in a 50:50 ratio;
under poor road conditions (when the differential lock is
activated), slipped wheels on one side will be locked and
100% of the power will be transmitted to the non-slipped
wheels on the other side to relieve the vehicle.
Locking of Differential Lock
When the vehicle drives at low speed (less than 30 km/h),
or runs into poor road conditions (such as icy, snowy and
mud roads or the wheel on one side is suspended above
the ground), the differential lock can sense the difference of
wheel speeds at both sides. When the difference reaches
about 100 rev/min, the differential lock will lock up quickly
and automatically. After it is locked, the engine torque will
be transmitted to effective wheels (non-slipped wheels) to
enable the vehicle to drive out of poor road conditions.
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Starting and Driving
Note: During the locking process, the driver and
passengers may feel a certain impact, which is caused
by characteristics of mechanical movement of the
differential lock. It is normal and will not cause any
damage to the vehicle.
Note: The vehicle may slightly move off track after the
differential lock is locked. As long as the driver holds
the steering wheel and keeps its current position, the
vehicle can be prevented from being off track.
Unlock of Differential Lock
When the vehicle drives out of poor road conditions, turn
the steering wheel towards the slipped side (about 10
degrees) to unlock the differential lock.
Note: When the differential lock is locked and the
vehicle has driven out of poor road conditions, please
ensure that the differential lock is unlocked, otherwise
it may affect your driving safety.
For models equipped with differential lock, the followings
should be noticed when driving: