Differential Lock, Drive Axles
The driver-controlled differential lock feature (side-to-
side wheel lock, traction control, or traction equalizer)
is available on vehicles with single- or tandem-drive
axles.
The differential lock provides maximum traction for
slippery conditions by forcing the wheels on each
drive axle governed by the switch to rotate together.
When the differential lock is engaged, the clutch col-
lar completely locks the differential case, gearing,
and axle shafts together, maximizing the traction of
both wheels.
Differential Lock Switch
See Fig. 15.1 for the differential lock switch on a ve-
hicle with a single drive axle.
For a vehicle with tandem axles, there are several
differential lock options available:
•
one switch to control the differential lock on
only one of the drive axles (this switch will
show only one dot on one drive axle, varying
slightly from the switch shown in
Fig. 15.2).
•
one switch to control the differential locks on
both drive axles (Fig. 15.2).
•
two switches, each of which controls the differ-
ential lock on one drive axle.
When the differential lock switch is pressed, three
responses are possible:
•
Normal Response: The LED in the switch
blinks until the differential lock is engaged. At
this point, the LED illuminates steadily. In nor-
mal operation, the wheels may lock so quickly
that the blinking of the LED is barely notice-
able.
If engagement of the differential lock mecha-
nism is not possible for any reason (ignition is
turned off, vehicle is moving faster than 25
mph, etc.), the LED will stop blinking and turn
off.
•
Slow Response: If engagement of the differen-
tial lock mechanism is slowed for any reason
(vehicle moving too fast, low air pressure, etc.),
the LED will continue to blink until the wheels
are able to lock. As in the normal response,
the LED illuminates steadily once the wheels
have locked.
•
Abnormal Response: If the LED blinks for more
than 30 seconds, the lock mechanism may not
be fully engaged/disengaged. Bring the vehicle
to an authorized Freightliner service facility for
testing.
Differential Lock Operation
NOTE: On some vehicles, the differential lock
system is connected through the low speed
range of the transmission. If this system is used,
the transmission must be in the low speed
range for the wheels to fully lock. In addition,
shifting out of low speed range will also disen-
gage the differential lock.
WARNING
Locking the wheels when the vehicle is traveling
down steep grades or when the wheels are slip-
ping could damage the differential and/or lead to
loss of vehicle control, causing personal injury
and property damage.
10/26/2001
f610596
Fig. 15.1, Differential Lock on Single Drive Axle
f610797
02/17/2006
Fig. 15.2, Differential Lock on Both Axles
Drive Axles
15.1
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