Good day to all.. I appreciate any and all who even read this question.. Being new to ATV'ing and very much interested in buying a new ATV for myself REAL! soon, I come across many questions, most of which, salesmen are more than eager to answer. However, in their constant effort to school me, I'm a bit confused in the difference between "Differential Lock" systems, and "Limited Slip torque sensing system" What are the Advantages/Disadvantages of each system? Obviously, different Makes/Models comes with the different system and it may make a difference in my purchase.... Thank to all who share the response.. Bald Paul

 

OK, first off, this is referring to just the front end of the machine. The real axle of all ATV's (with just a couple of exceptions) is always locked.

4x4 ATV's have a some form of limited slip front axle. This puts power to one wheel or the other or a % of power to each. Normally in a limited slip, the power will go to the wheel with the least amount of traction. In effect, your 4x4 is actually in three wheel drive. Some models come with a differential lock feature. This is a switch or a lever that will lock the front dif, making it a true four wheel drive. Dif lock is normally used in slower speed situations as it can be a real bear to steer. As far as traction goes, there is no doubt that an ATV with a dif lock will have more traction thatn one without.

It's up to you and your riding habits as to if you need a dif lock as it's usually available on more expensive machines. Some limited slip bikes can be 'cheated' for more traction just by feathering the front brakes. I've watched all four wheels on my Eiger dig in when in deep mud - no question that both front wheels are turning. It's just that they do have limited power - dig in too much and one will stop. At the same time, I've pulled out 4x4's that do have a dif lock from mudholes that I made it through with ease - your call

There are several different systems out there. Polaris uses a slip sensing system that only engages the front wheels when they detect slip from the back. It's more of an all-wheel drive system than a four wheel drive - some love it, some hate it. Can-Am has a visco lock system, seems to work well in mud but not so smooth for slow rock crawling.

The best thing to do if you find a brand of ATV that you like is to find someowe who owns one - maybe on these pages.

Jaybee

 

I like a differential lock system better than limited slip. It gives you more control and options under difficult conditions. Here's a video of Can Am's visco lock limited slip system under some semi-technical uphill riding conditions. You watch and decide.