Re: Torsen 201

[QSHIPQ@aol.com]

In a message dated 10/26/99 2:43:30 PM Central Daylight Time, 
rmarkar@swbell.net writes:

> I am confused, is the Torsen a switch that is only capable of being in one
>  of two states, or is it continuously variable in its ability to distribute
>  torque?  Because it has always seemed to me that if it is continuously
>  variable in splitting torque, then the U-O-U scenario could not possibly
>  exist.
>   
>  Randall C. Markarian
>  
Why not?  If the torsen distributes torque to the rear due to slip angle 
differences between axles, then needs to distribute torque due to traction 
differences between the two axles, one or the other rules.  885140 indicates 
that traction arguments supercede slip angle ones.  So, slip angle gives you 
O, traction gives you U, slip angle or traction then gives you O, ad 
infinitum.

The exact problem is that the torsen continuously varies torque.  The real 
question is under what conditions does that varying torque dictate a U or O 
in terms of chassis dynamics.  That's a whole bunch of variables to control.

There are two inputs to the device, with the same output.  The problem 
becomes when one input (traction) supercedes the other (relative slip 
angles).  Any 'correction' by the driver while this happens, changes the 
variables again.

HTH

Scott Justusson