open differential
English
Noun
open differential (plural open differentials)
- (mechanics) A type of differential gear used in automobile construction, allowing for output shafts to have different angular velocity, while equalizing torque applied to each output shaft. [from 20th c.]
Usage notes
Applied torque being output can be modified by appliances external to the differential, such as with a traction control system.
An unlocked differential (unlocked locking differential) functions as an open differential, until locked.
Synonyms
- OD (abbreviation)
- open diff (shortened form)
Hypernyms
- differential / differential gear
- transmission / transmission gear
Coordinate terms
- locked differential
- locking differential
- limited-slip differential
- unlocked differential
- lunchbox locker
- Aussie locker