Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/105105
BUYER'S GUIDE AN INSIDE LOOK AT DIFFERENTIAL UPGRADES TO ENHANCE OFF-PAVEMENT PERFORMANCE FOR OLD PICKUPS AND THOSE WITH MODERN ELECTRONIC TRACTION CONTROLS By Mike Magda A l lmost every new f ll i pickup full-size i k comes equipped with an electronic traction control that is part of the vehicle's ABS and stability control system. The same network of sensors, computers, valves and solenoids that keep the brakes from locking up under panic stops can also detect if a drive wheel is spinning faster than the other wheels, which indicates a loss of traction. The system quickly reacts by applying 48 PROPICKUP Buyer's Guide 2012 h brake h i i h l hi h the b k on the spinning wheel, which transfers torque across the axle to the tire with greater traction when in two-wheeldrive or, if needed, to the opposite axle when in four-wheel-drive. The computer can also reduce engine power until all the drive wheels share the workload evenly. Electronic traction control is effective in the majority of routine driving situations, especially on ice or snow-packed roads. The sophisticated programming that makes split-second adjustments to control the tires is well beyond the driving capability of most drivers. Besides helping achieve maximum grip for braking and acceleration, brake controls can also help the driver maintain the desired course in a turn (electronic stability control) and reduce trailer yaw (trailer sway control). Despite all their wonderful attributes in day-to-day driving, electronic traction controls have shortcomings in more severe applications such as off-highway use. So most automakers still offer optional mechanical traction aids, such as a limited-slip differential (LSD) or a locking differential. The Toyota Tundra is the only full-size pickup that does not offer a mechanical LSD or locker, but