freightliner M2 Plus 2023 Manual page 201

02/03/2017
A. Turning Radius When the DCDL is Engaged
(understeer condition)
B. Turning Radius When the DCDL is Disengaged
Fig. 16.7, Turning Radii
Single Drive Axles with Traction
Equalizer
Some single drive axles are equipped with a traction
equalizer that is a load-sensing, self-actuating
feature. A traction equalizer provides normal
differential action where traction is good. When one
wheel begins to spin faster than the other, clutch
plates in the differential housing automatically
engage, delivering power to both wheels. There is no
operator control with this feature.
NOTICE
Tire sizes on both rear wheels should be the
same on axles equipped with a traction equalizer.
If not, excessive wear may occur in the traction
equalizer.
Interaxle Lock, Tandem Axles
The interaxle lock (axle lock, interaxle differential
lockout) feature causes the drive axle shafts to rotate
together, and is recommended for use under adverse
road conditions where greater traction is needed.
When engaged, the interaxle lock essentially makes
the driveshaft a solid connection between the drive
axles. Power entering the forward axle is transmitted
straight through to the rearmost axle(s). Driveline
torque is now delivered equally and the drive axles,
and wheels, turn together at the same speed. The
interaxle lock increases drivetrain and tire wear and
should be used only when improved traction is
required.
A
B
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A status screen showing engaged locks is found in
the vehicle operations menus on the driver display.
See Fig. 16.5.
Interaxle Lock Switch
The interaxle lock switch, shown in
the driver to lock the drive axles together.
Interaxle Lock Operation
NOTICE
The interaxle lock should not be engaged on a
vehicle with obviously spinning wheels.
Engagement at high speed or power can damage
the axle(s).
NOTE: If the interaxle lock is engaged when the
engine is turned off, the interaxle lock will
disengage.
1. With the engine running, press the upper half of
the interaxle lock switch to engage the interaxle
lock. Do not wait until traction is lost and the tires
are spinning before engaging the interaxle lock.
2.
If the vehicle is moving, briefly let up on the
accelerator until the interaxle lock engages. An
indicator light on the interaxle lock switch
illuminates when the lock is engaged. Depending
on the vehicle configuration, a buzzer may also
sound.
NOTICE
Do not operate the vehicle continuously with the
interaxle locked during extended good road
conditions. To do so could result in damage to
the axle gearing and excessive driveline and tire
wear.
3. Proceed over poor road conditions with caution.
4.
Press the lower half of the interaxle lock switch
to disengage the interaxle lock after leaving poor
road conditions.
5. If the vehicle is moving, briefly let up on the
accelerator to allow the interaxle lock to
disengage, then resume driving at normal speed.
Once the interaxle lock disengages, the indicator
light will go off.
Drive Axles
Fig. 16.6, allows
16.6