Driver Controlled Differential Lock (Dcdl); Operation Tips; Locking The Dcdl - PREVOST X3-45 VIP 2015 Owner's Manual

5-24 Other Features
CAUTION
Vehicles following ABS-equipped vehicles may
not be able to brake as fast on slippery roads.
Whenever possible, warn other drivers by
depressing the brake pedal lightly several
times before braking.
In addition to the ABS function, advanced
models of Bendix
Automatic Traction Control (ATC) feature.
Bendix ATC can improve vehicle traction during
acceleration, and
accelerating through
Engine Torque Limiting (ETL) where the ECU
communicates with the engine's controller and/or
Differential Braking (DB) where individual
wheel brake applications are used to improve
vehicle traction.
Advanced models of Bendix controllers also
provide ABS-based stability features referred to

as ESC Electronic Stability Control.
The Bendix ESC system is an ABS-based
stability system that enhances vehicle stability by
both reducing engine throttle and by applying
vehicle braking based
dynamics. Accordingly, the ESC system is
available only on specific approved vehicle
platforms after vehicle
development efforts and validation testing. Only
certain limited variations of an approved vehicle
platform are permitted without further validation
of the ESC system application.
DANGER
In the case where a vehicle equipped with the
ESC system pulls a trailer, the latter must be
equipped with ABS.
ESC stability system consists of Yaw Control
(YC) and Roll Stability Program (RSP) features.
CAUTION
Even with ESC-equipped vehicles, the driver
remains responsible for ensuring vehicle
stability during operation.
DRIVER CONTROLLED
DIFFERENTIAL LOCK (DCDL)
By actuating the electric switch, the driver can
lock or unlock differential action.
controllers provide
lateral stability while
curves. ATC utilizes
on actual vehicle
application and
The purpose of the DCDL is to provide
maximum
unfavorable road or highway surfaces. When the
DCDL is actuated, a clutch collar completely
locks the differential case, gearing, and axle
shafts together. This feature maximizes traction
to both wheels. The lock position will also protect
against spinout damage to the differential. The
DCDL should not be actuated when favorable
road conditions exist.
an

OPERATION TIPS

1. The DCDL can be locked or unlocked if the
vehicle is standing still or moving at a
constant low speed when the wheels are not
spinning, slipping, or losing traction.
2. When the DCDL is locked, operate the
vehicle at low speeds. DCDL will not engage
and will disengage in speed higher than 5
MPH (8 km/h).
3. When the DCDL is locked, the vehicle's
turning radius will increase. This condition is
called "understeer." The driver must use
caution, good judgment and drive at low
speeds when operating the vehicle with the
DCDL locked.
4. Always unlock the DCDL as soon as the
need for maximum traction has passed and
the vehicle is traveling on a good road or
highway.
5. Do not lock the DCDL when the wheels are
slipping or losing traction, or damage to the
axle can result.
6. Do not lock the DCDL when the vehicle is
traveling down steep grades, or potential
loss of vehicle stability could occur.

LOCKING THE DCDL

When encountering poor road or highway
conditions where maximum traction is needed,
follow the recommended procedures:
1. Without the wheels spinning, slipping or
losing traction, flip the DCDL control switch
to the "LOCK" position while maintaining a
constant vehicle speed.
2. Let up momentarily on the accelerator to
relieve torque on the gearing, allowing the
DCDL to lock.
3. When the DCDL is fully locked, the vehicle
will have an "understeer" condition when
making turns. Proceed cautiously over poor
road or highway conditions.
vehicle traction and control on