open differential

English

Noun

open differential (plural open differentials)

1. (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