Subaru 2002 Impreza Service Manual page 297

LIMITED SLIP DIFFERENTIAL (LSD)
Differentials
2. WHEN RIGHT AND LEFT WHEELS ROTATE AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS
When a speed difference occurs between the right and left wheels, the differential case and the
left side gear do not rotate at the same speed any more. The speed difference between them cor-
responds to that between both the wheels. Because of the shear force caused in the silicone oil,
a differential torque is then generated, which limits differential action.
For example, if the left wheel spins due to small road resistance, a speed difference occurs be-
tween the right and left wheels. Since there is the V/C between the differential case and left side
gear, a differential torque corresponding to the speed difference is generated in the V/C. This dif-
ferential torque is transferred from the left wheel to the right wheel. As a result, a greater driving
torque is distributed to the right wheel which is rotating at a lower speed.
When the right wheel spins, the differential torque is transferred from the right wheel to the left
wheel. Also in this case, a torque greater by the differential torque than the torque to the spinning
wheel is transmitted to the wheel rotating at the lower speed.
When left wheel spins
NF0100
DI-5