Hi group,

I got a question on the real-time torque transfer mechanism. I know
that torque is gradually transfered to the rear axle (up to a 50-50
setting) as soon as a 3% differential spin is detected between the
two axles. The rate of torque transfer varies according to the spin
differential. So far so good.

The question is whether it is harmful for the real time drive
mechanism to use the handbrake at a tight bend while off-roading, to
momentarily lock the rear wheels and thrust the rear end of the car
around to position the car better for accelerating in the new
direction.

It is reasonable to assume that by locking the rear wheels the spin
differential arises and the torque transfer mechanism kicks in. Is it
also correct to assume that this action is harmful only to the point
that you accidentally power up the wheels while still pulling the
handbrake? Because the real-time torque transfer mechanism may have
engaged the real axle, but as long as no torque is applied there is
no problem.

Any suggestions?

Hari Seldon
Foundation, Terminus

From my playing with this thought on ice I noticed that the front tires will
lock up as well... making this technique kinda scary... or not what you
expected. I have done it on dirt as well and it just seems to slow the
vehicle a lot faster to a complete stop.

It was easier to see that all four tires locked up on ice though due to the
scratches in the ice from the four studded tires.