Thread: D4 rear diff lock

Originally Posted by Graeme

Does the e-diff have the same ratio as your vehicle, ie is your's an 8-speed?

Thanks Graeme.
Yes it is the same ratio, mine is an 8-speed car.

In essence what you are describing has been done by a guy...apparently successfully

DISCO3.CO.UK - View topic - Rear lock diff retrofit for D3 and D4

However what scary me is the electronic side of things. Not only because it will require a hell of a job in terms of time but also because the risks of failure will be high.

I am wondering if the original diff lock (the one on ebay) can be fitted and activated manually with a switch independently from the Terrain response and ETC systems. What you recon?

Nic

The e-diff has a stepper motor that the ecu operates in a forward and revere direction to increase and decrease pressure on clutch plates. Hence a simple on-off switch isn't suitable.

Originally Posted by Graeme

The e-diff has a stepper motor that the ecu operates in a forward and revere direction to increase and decrease pressure on clutch plates. Hence a simple on-off switch isn't suitable.

You mean it doesn't work as a traditional diff lock with a spindle to block? So you either connect it to the ECU or nothing?

And how difficult do you recon it is to connect it? Would you think that it is a reliable solution? Cost effective?

Nic

No it uses clutch packs to share load infinitely between the two axles.

Once you have it installed and operating on your car, i see no reason why it would be any less reliable than if it were factory installed. (Excepting the condition of the installed diff)

I have wanted to do this to my car, though cost (and necessity to some degree) has stopped me. In my opinion it is a better solution that an aftermarket locker like ARB, as it integrates with the traction control.

Whatever you do, please let us know and post plenty of pics

Cheers

Dan

So how does the factory E-Lock work, is there a switch/button to push or is it all automatically done through terrain response system. So you have no option to turn on when you want❓

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Yep all automatic. No user control.

Its the same as the centre diff lock in your D3/4. The computers control all of that for you - i do sometimes find that frustrating, as being able to lock the centre diff manually would save some wheel spinning and brake wear

Cheers

Dan

More importantly, being able to lock the centre diff would allow drive with a broken front or rear CV, which as it stands is only possible in basically a straight line in rock crawl.

Originally Posted by Graeme

More importantly, being able to lock the centre diff would allow drive with a broken front or rear CV, which as it stands is only possible in basically a straight line in rock crawl.

Good point, there is no way around this in an emergency ❓

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