Powersports Reduction & Differential Gear

A differential is a mechanical assembly that splits the torque between two drive wheels of your quad or side-by-side. Every time you make a turn, the inside and outside wheels rotate at a different speed and travel different distance. The non-driven wheels rotate independently and do not require additional devices to regulate their speed. The differential is installed on one or two drive axles to allow for the distribution of rotational power coming from one source between drive wheels. Without that assembly, it would be very difficult to make a turn because the vehicle’s outside wheels would slip on the ground while rotating at the same speed as their inside counterparts.

In models with part-time four-wheel-drive, there is a differential lock mechanism that allows for even distribution of torque between the left and right or rear and front wheels. The lock can be activated by a simple flip of a switch. Such a limited-time 4x4 mode can be used in a tough off-road situation to escape from mud or sand pits. With the differential locked, left and right wheels turn at the same speed, which makes it much harder to steer the machine. That is why drivers try to switch off the lock as soon as they get to more or less solid ground.

Some manufacturers of UTVs and ATVs offer a user-friendly, full-time four-wheel drive setup. It allows the driver to use a 4x4 mode constantly without experiencing any difficulties in controlling the vehicle. Alternatively, it is possible to choose a two-wheel drive mode. Thanks to a viscous coupling or special electro-mechanical overrunning clutch that detects when some of the wheels lose traction, the four-wheel drive is engaged automatically. As soon as traction is regained, the coupling releases the lock for easier steering without the need for any driver’s input. The electro-mechanical coupling has a huge advantage over its viscous counterpart in its ability to start transferring torque even before the driver notices that the wheels start spinning.

All mechanical assemblies with moving parts made of metal require high-quality grease or oil for lubrication, cooling, and protection from excessive wear and damage. In manual transmissions and differentials, heavy-duty gear oil is used ensuring the smooth and trouble-free operation of the assembly. Your differential can suffer from serious damage in case of oil leak or contamination. With time, gear oil loses its protective properties, so it is highly recommended to change it according to the maintenance schedule. There are several telling signs of a bad differential. In case of a leak caused by worn out or damaged gasket, you may notice a howling noise in your drivetrain.

The gears in your differential may start slipping and grinding as a result of a low oil level. If you notice a burning smell from your differential area and see usually reddish wet stains on its housing, it means that an old gasket can no longer hold the gear oil inside causing leaks. When it is time to do some maintenance or repairs, you can always visit our online store to find all that you may need for your project. We work with only reputable manufacturers of premium powersports differentials and components, including durable and reliable reduction gears, sprockets, and spool lockers.