[s-cars] Re: Subie WRX AWD (NAC)

[William Noland]

Not to mention, that WRX models have a viscous limited-slip rear
differential. Your basic cooking Impreza does not. As to the automatic
version of the WRX, the engineering is interesting, but why bother?  :-)

Bill
UrS4 mit 5-speed manual
WMB M Roadster mit 5-speed manual
Subie WRX Wagon mit 5-speed manual
Honda VFR800 Interceptor mit 6-speed manual
Honda Hawk GT 650 mit 5-speed manual
Yamaha 180 Scooter mit auto-clutch (taking up garage space)
Do we detect a trend here?  :-)

>"In vehicles with the 5-speed manual transmission, the All-Wheel Drive uses=
> a viscous coupling in a center differential inside the transaxle case. The=
> viscous coupling contains a series of opposing discs attached to the front=
> and rear output shafts, surrounded by a silicone fluid. In normal operatio=
>n, power is distributed equally between the front and rear wheels (50/50 po=
>wer split). Slippage at the front or rear wheels causes a rotational differ=
>ence between the front and rear discs in the viscous unit, which then shear=
>s the fluid.
>
>The shearing action heats the fluid, causing it to thicken. As the fluid th=
>ickens, power transfers from the slipping wheels to the wheels with the bes=
>t traction. When the slippage ceases, all the discs turn at the same speed,=
> restoring the 50/50 power split. The process is quick and imperceptible to=
> the driver and passengers.
>
>The continuous All-Wheel Driving System is simple, compact, and virtually i=
>nvisible during operation. Its traction adds a significant margin of safety=
> on slippery or unpaved roads, and enhances dry-road handling. "
>