2000MOJAVE, a limited-slip differential is designed to bias torque to the wheel with traction (as in, "Posi-Traction" differentials). An open differential has no mechanism for torque biasing. If a limited-slip differential malfunctions, it may act as an open differential, with all torque wasted in the spinning wheel.

A limited-slip differential contains a clutch pack, cones, or ratcheting mechanism to transfer torque from the spinning wheel to the one with traction. An open differential contains no such mechanism.

I haven't looked, but I imagine one could unleash his search engine on this topic and find lots of information on the subject.

Diogenes

 

 

Thanks for everyones input. If I understand everyone correctly, I'm not giving anything up by going with the Kodiak. It sound like the limited slip (or whatever Yamaha calls theirs) is the same as the other machines. Took a look at the forum for Hondas today, man, those guys talkin about the Rubi's Hondamatic tranny scared the hell out of me , talking about replacement cost, etc. My minds made up, and the winner is 2001 Kodiak 4x4. Doing the home equity thing, just got word today everything will be ready Wednesday to pick up check and go shopping. I can hardly wait!!! Thanks again for everyones help.

 

Thanks for your response--when I first started reading about ATVs and their LS axles, I thought they were similar to the automotive axles as you mentioned. I had a Positraction in a Camaro and I special ordered the LS in my truck. I know how they work in the automotive world--get power to the wheel with most traction. A car or truck without this is basically a one wheel drive. But somehow the definition of a limited slip seems to be different in the ATV world. It seems to me that some atvs call any type of differential a limited slip.

 

You won't be sorry with your decision! Ride On!!

 

Buying that Kodiak 4x4 is a purchase you won't regret. Had mine one year now and no complaints. I see you are from Motown WV also and was wondering where you ride?

 

I appreciate your civil response and constructive discussion also, Fpilot.

Indeed, ATV limited-slip differentials appear to perform not unlike open differentials; that is, little, if any, torque is transferred from a spinning wheel to a wheel with traction.

However, inside the pumpkin, ATV limited-slip differentials contain clutch packs (in most cases), just like your Posi-Traction diff (the Traxter is an exception, with a special progressively-restricting differential).

I do not know why ATV limited-slip differentials don't limit slip better than they do. They are obviously designed to bias torque to the wheel with traction, their general ineffectiveness remains a mystery to me.

Further, I agree with your comment, many use the term "limited-slip" to refer to ANY ATV differential, especially to a differential performing like an open differential (this population may include the bulk of ATV differentials).

Diogenes

 

Good decision on the Kodiak, you won't regret it. I've had no probs other than a rear brake pad at 700 hard miles and it now has 1000 miles. No slippage with water up to seat but the clamps on air intake needed tightening once. It's been such a good bike, I just scored a 95 Kodiak in excellent shape w/1700 original miles. I bought it for resale but may hang on to it since I got a good deal. I went to WVU and I'd say there is some good riding up there. I had a good hunting spot at Coopers Rock where I saw deer every time I went.

 

Your right about the limited slip front end of the Grizzly, and the Kodiak. It does have a clutch pack limited slip front differential, but it might as well be open. It is highly ineffective and operates much the same as an open differential. Try jacking up one front wheel on a Kodiak an turning it by hand. There is so little clutch engagement that it might as well be open. Dirty Howie makes a locker for both. I'm getting one for my Grizzly here very shortly. I will loose some steering ease, but I won't be saying "damn, I could have made it if the other front tire were grabbing traction". Its a trade off, but personally, I'd rather have the added traction then the steering ease.

Rick