Rear-End

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Rear-End Synopsis

A differential is a mechanical device which allows a flexible division of drive between wheels to allow cornering. A limited slip differential (LSD) is a device which automatically reduces the loss of drive which can result from spinning wheels on one side of an axle. Spinning wheels are most likely to result from cornering while on the gas, pulling away from a stand still or accelerating in a car with lots of power. Differentials work by allowing a flexible distribution of drive between the wheels on an axle, which allows for the different rates of rotation while cornering. However this flexibility is also the differential's weakness, as it will always allow drive to 'escape' via the easiest route. So if you are turning a corner while hard on the gas in a powerful car, you can find that the inside wheel starts spinning (due to the weight transfer leading to less grip), and you lose the ability to put power down on the road via the outside wheel. This isn't good, especially if you're trying to put in a good time on the track, and this is why the limited slip differential (LSD) was invented.