3D illustration of an open differential used to differentiate the speed of tires on a vehicle when making a turn

Differential Basics

Differential Basics reviews the common components used in a differential, the operating principles of the differential, and the various types of differentials used in a rear and front axle differential. Ready to take the next step? Explore the course details and see everything we’ve packed into this program!

Learning Hours: 2.5

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Course Description

Differential Basics reviews the common components used in a differential, the operating principles of the differential, and the various types of differentials used in a rear and front axle differential. Presented in THORS’s graphically rich and interactive learning format, this course will help employees identify each component of the differential and how it fits into the entire vehicle.

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Who will benefit from this Differentials course?

Quality, manufacturing, engineering, designing, testing, purchasing, and sales functions at organizations that require an understanding of the basic terminology of differential components, operating principles of differentials, and the types of differentials used in the automotive industry.

Course Classification

This manufacturing course by THORS eLearning Solutions covers identification of key terms and understanding of key concepts.

*THORS uses the Bloom’s Taxonomy Methodology for our course development.

Certificate Awarded for Differential Basics

Example of certificate awarded upon successful completion of the course.

*upon successful completion

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Learning Objectives

  1. Identify the rear axle components.
  2. Define the purpose of each differential component.
  3. Explain the different driveline configurations.
  4. Understand the various differential operating principles.
  5. Summarize the various types of differentials.
  6. Describe the difference between an axle differential and transmission differential.

3D illustration showing the shaft, pinions, side gear, and outer case of a differential

Differential Basics

Table of Contents

  1. Rear Axle Components
    1. Companion Flange
    2. Ring Gear and Hypoid Pinion Set
      1. Ring Gear
      2. Hypoid Pinion
      3. Types of Gear Sets
        1. Spiral Bevel Gear Set
        2. Hypoid Gear Set
    3. Differential Assembly
      1. Differential Case
      2. Differential Pinion Shaft
      3. Differential Pinions
      4. Differential Side Gears
      5. Thrust Washers
      6. Springs
        1. S-Springs
        2. Belleville Springs
        3. Coil Springs
      7. Clutch Packs
      8. Bearings
    4. Axle Shaft
  2. Differential Principles
    1. Driveline Configurations
      1. RWD
      2. FWD
      3. 4WD
      4. AWD
    2. Differential Operating Variables
      1. Power
      2. Torque
      3. Delta Speed
      4. Drive Ratio
      5. Surface Friction Coefficient
      6. Tractive Force
      7. Preload
      8. Bias Ratio
    3. Differential Kinematics
  3. Types of Differentials
    1. Open Differential
    2. Limited-Slip Differential
      1. Active Differential
        1. Hydraulic Limited-Slip Differential
    3. Locking Differential
      1. Mechanical Locking Differential
      2. Electronic Locking Differential
    4. Torque Vectoring Differential
    5. Transmission Differential

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