Torsen Test Redux w/ 88 80q

[bludodger at att.net]

By the way listers, please think of this problem
(question) like one of those dreaded hypothetical
science (physics) problems where the front wheels have
no friction at all, zero because the ice is "perfect
ice". So what would the car do under these circumstances?
--
Blu
'88 80q--175,000mi.
>
> > '88 80q- both front wheels on sheet of pure ice (read-no
> > friction). Both rear wheels on dry ground. Rear Diff.
> > unlocked. Car started up and put in gear and accelerator
> > pressed. What should happen in theory? Does the car move
> > forward? Do the front wheels just spin on ice? What
> > happens when rear diff. is engaged (locked)?
>
> the car will move.  the center diff will make sure that some torque gets
> to the end of the car with traction.
>
> in reality you'll find that so long as a tire or two has some grip
> unless you floor it you'll hardly notice that there is any slippery
> stuff (unless you are turning, as well).  Remember, it's pretty hard to
> have "no friction" at all, though sometimes it seems like it!
>
> --
> Huw Powell
>
> http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi/
>
> http://www.humanthoughts.org/