Electronic Locking Differential vs. Traction Control?
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Cross-Country
Joined: Nov 2021
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Electronic Locking Differential vs. Traction Control?
I have a 2017 F250 4x2 with both of these, and I'm trying to figure out how they function.
My understanding of the theory involved is that both are similar in function, but kinda opposite? - Traction control uses breaking to redistribute power from a rear wheel with poor traction to the other, and the locking diff keeps them both spinning at the same speed regardless of traction. I mostly keep it on the road, so traction control is always on and the diff is never locked.
However, I do want to know how to use these if I fin myself in a low-traction situation. In what road conditions do you use one, both or neither of these features?
My understanding of the theory involved is that both are similar in function, but kinda opposite? - Traction control uses breaking to redistribute power from a rear wheel with poor traction to the other, and the locking diff keeps them both spinning at the same speed regardless of traction. I mostly keep it on the road, so traction control is always on and the diff is never locked.
However, I do want to know how to use these if I fin myself in a low-traction situation. In what road conditions do you use one, both or neither of these features?
Senior User
Joined: Sep 2016
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You're correct in how each system works. Only use the locking diff on loose ground since it locks the axle shafts together and the ground will have to allow for some slipping. Otherwise you'll bind up the diff and most likely blow it up. I just leave traction control on no matter what the conditions are.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: Itinerant
There are times if I'm coming off of a gravel road (especially uneven or up hill climb) and turning onto a paved road with heavy traffic that I'll turn off traction control so it doesn't reduce power during the turn in front of traffic.
I'll lock the rear axel if 4x4 isn't really needed and just want a little more rear wheel power on a short climb off road.
I'll lock the rear axel if 4x4 isn't really needed and just want a little more rear wheel power on a short climb off road.
Hotshot
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 10,150
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From: Chaz
If you offroad a lot traction control will burn your brakes up quicker.
The traction control on my 2wd Fords was so intrusive at low speeds it would force you to get stuck. Low speeds like 5-10mph would just bring you to a stop in wet grass. Turning it off didnt help much.
The traction control on my 2wd Fords was so intrusive at low speeds it would force you to get stuck. Low speeds like 5-10mph would just bring you to a stop in wet grass. Turning it off didnt help much.
Cargo Master
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 3,256
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From: Pryor, OK
Traction control sences tire slippage from a sensor and trigger wheel attached to the ring gear and then reduces power to the axle. It is solely intended for driving in slippery road condition (rain, snow, ice, etc.). TC relieves stress on drivetrain components.
The e-locker simply locks both axle shafts to the ring gear. With the e-locker disengaged, the differential acts as an open locker. With the e-locker engaged, the differential acts as a posi-locker. You most definitely don't want to engage your e-locker on pavement.
The e-locker simply locks both axle shafts to the ring gear. With the e-locker disengaged, the differential acts as an open locker. With the e-locker engaged, the differential acts as a posi-locker. You most definitely don't want to engage your e-locker on pavement.
Hotshot
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 10,150
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From: Chaz
I had a Tundra with the traction control set up and like mentioned it worked the brakes a lot in mud. Wouldn’t recommend it for a truck that is off road a lot with a good driver
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Mountain Pass
Joined: May 2020
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How about this... traction control can help you from losing control and spinning out off the road (the locking differential generally won't do that), but for whatever reason, if you do spinout off the road, the locking differential will help you get back to the road.
Very generally speaking, traction control is most beneficial on the road and the locking differential is most beneficial off the road.
Very generally speaking, traction control is most beneficial on the road and the locking differential is most beneficial off the road.
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5th Wheeling
Joined: Oct 2021
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Newbie on both traction control & electronic locking diff. My old 05 F250 4x4 just had limited slip on rear. Boat ramps are always problem for me as I get many different conditions with different ramps. I have 22 F250 Lariat 4x4 lock-diff on order. Will I be using this lock-diff
Cargo Master
Joined: Jul 2021
Posts: 2,969
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From: Ridgway, CO
Traction control is useful on road. For most people it can react more quickly than the driver and can be very useful in preventing loss of control. Off highway the locker is better, to an extent anyway as designed. TC will slow you to a stop and get you stuck on say a slick hill. Locker needs to be used with the TC disabled so that the brakes will not intervene and kill your momentum. The problem I have with the factory locker setting is the stupid 20-25 mph auto disengage speed. So off highway for me means disabling the TC, running 4wd and engaging the locker when you need it to maintain speed.
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