How to check differential locks?

[Duncan Thomson]

Suggestions below are based on my '83 80Q and '85 CQ cars so there may 
be some differences, but most should still apply...

SJ wrote:

>In the past, I recall that when the diff locks were engaged, you could hear
>and feel the tires scrubbing as you went around sharp turns. I dont detect
>that now.
>  
>

Suggests they are not locking...
do you have indicator LEDs that show the status, because these normally 
only light up when the locks engage (pneumatic actuators move into 
engage position)

>I know if you turn one wheel, the other wheel turns in the opposite
>direction. Is this still true for locked differentials?
>  
>

with setting on 1 (centre locked) turning a front wheel should result in 
other front rotating in opposite direction, and one rear wheel rotating 
in each direction...

basically as long as you see the rear wheel on your side move in either 
direction, it has engaged....

>When the diff lock lever engages, does it engage directly? or do the
>internal gears need to move a bit and get into alignment before the lock
>lever drops into position and the diff lock is engaged?
>  
>

lever applies air pressure, will not actually lock until mechanism is 
appropriately aligned and air pressure has built to sufficient level...
air leaks etc means this tends to be a bit slower on older cars...

>Someone mentioned that it takes a bit before the locks engage. I suspect the
>delayed engagement is a vacuum related problem at the actuator.
>
>Do the diff lock levers freeze up with age? Like the rear E-brake lever?
>  
>

yup... general clean out / lube should help... as well as replacing any 
dodgy rubber tubes which may be leaking...

>Is it possible for the diff locks to be partially engaged and produce that
>whine?
>  
>

no...

HTH
Duncan



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