RE: torsen tech

["Dave Eaton" <Dave.Eaton@clear.net.nz>]

actually the torsen is both.  in the 1st instance, it varies torque
continuously until it reaches a pre-determined limit called the bias ratio.
at this point it becomes a fixed torque proportioning device allowing axle
speeds to vary, while the torque split remains at the bias ratio.

in other words, it operates as a locked diff (generation 1 quattro) would
until the bias ratio and then as an open diff distributing torque at the
bias ratio.

so, in cornering the u-o-u argument is highly unlikely be design of the
device.

if patchy ice or other low cf conditions exist (i.e. variable front/rear),
the torsen can and will shift torque every which way, but we're not talking
about that with the mythical spider bite.

hth,
dave
'95 rs2
'90 ur-q
'89 mb 2.3-16
-----Original Message-----

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
>