Double Torque Rearend

[miniVan]

Few years back when I had my rear end/axle serviced/repaired, my mechanic told me that my truck (97 Astro) has a "double torque" rear differential and that it had more towing capabilities than the standard rearend. They mentioned that I can tow more than the specified/recomended weight because of this feature. Can someone explain to me abit more how a double torque rear end works compared to a standard one?

[Gary]

It would help a bunch if you told us which van you own.

[Big_kid]

I've never heard of a "double torque" rear end. I'd find another mechanic if he thinks a beefed up differential increases your vehicle's tow rating or what you can tow safely.

There is MUCH more to a tow rating than how torque gets from the driveshaft to the wheels. Braking, traction, braking, suspension, braking, transmission/steering/engine cooling, braking, suspension, steering, braking and suspension all play important parts. Did I mention suspension and braking? To me, they're more important than the differential when it comes to towing.

I found this to be a good read:
http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/problems/equi ... /index.htm