Teach You How To Use The Differential Lock

Before understanding this issue, we need to know two concepts: what is differential and what is differential lock

|Agricultural Machinery Science Popularization | What is Differential

When turning a tractor, due to the different turning radii of the inner and outer wheels, the turning radius of the outer wheel should be greater than that of the inner wheel. This requires the outer wheel to rotate at a higher speed than the inner wheel during turning. So the basic function of the differential is to meet the requirement of different wheel speeds on both sides of the tractor when turning, to ensure smooth turning.
Due to the differential allowing the wheels to rotate at different speeds, this device has a completely counterproductive effect on slippery roads such as mud. As a result, when one wheel slips, all power is consumed by the rapidly rotating slipping wheel, causing other wheels to lose power and making it difficult to get out of the predicament.

|Agricultural Machinery Science Popularization | What is Differential Lock

In layman's terms, the differential is used to create a speed difference between the inner and outer wheels of a tractor when turning, otherwise it would be difficult for the machine to turn. However, the differential can be counterproductive on muddy roads. The differential lock plays a completely opposite role to the differential. In order for power to be transmitted to the stationary wheel normally, there must be a differential lock, which can rigidly connect the two half shafts to form a whole, so that both sides of the wheels can receive the same power, allowing the machine to get out of trouble. This is the function of the differential lock.

|Agricultural Machinery Science Popularization | Usage of Differential Lock

If the tractor encounters a stuck vehicle or unilateral drive slipping during operation, and the tractor cannot move, the differential lock can be engaged according to the following steps to rigidly connect the left and right drive shafts and drive out of the slipping area at the same speed.

1. Press the clutch pedal and shift the gear lever to low gear.

2. Turn the throttle control lever to the maximum fuel supply position.

3. Step on the differential lock control lever with your right foot.

4. Release the clutch pedal smoothly to start the tractor smoothly.

5. After driving out of the slippery area, release the differential lock pedal and the differential lock will automatically disengage.