Fords with Locking Differential Near Scottsdale, AZ

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Ford Vehicles with Locking Differential

When it comes to tackling rough terrains during adventuring, Ford vehicles have an excellent reputation for their durability and performance capabilities. 

Their iconic slogan of "Built Ford Tough®" encapsulates the brand's commitment to producing vehicles that can withstand even the harshest of conditions. Through the years, Ford vehicles have also evolved to offer numerous features designed to enhance off-roading experiences for their owners, one of which is the locking differential. This crucial part of the driveline provides serious traction in the toughest situations and makes Arizona adventures even more fun.  

Let's dig in more on this often misunderstood component. 

What Does Locking the Differential Do?

Locking the differential is a crucial feature for off-roaders to enjoy a variety of terrains with the most power, precision, and control over their four-wheel drive system. Locking differentials should not be confused with limited slip differentials, also known as LSDs or positraction, which are used by road cars to gain traction while carving corners. 

In a standard, open differential, power is distributed unevenly among two wheels, making one wheel spin freely while the other struggles to gain traction. By locking the differential, power is evenly distributed to both wheels by spinning them at the same time, providing maximum traction. Even if one wheel loses traction, the other wheel still has the power to maintain forward momentum. Locking the differential comes in handy when navigating through terrains such as deep mud, steep inclines, or uneven surfaces. 

All in all, a locking, limited slip differential makes off-roading a safer and more thrilling adventure.

Do Fords Have Locking Differentials?

When it comes to locking differentials, Ford offers various options for their off-roading vehicles including electronic front-locking differentials on the front axle and electronic rear-locking differentials on the rear axle. All-wheel drive models also offer automatic locking differentials. 

Electronic front-locking and rear-locking differentials lock their respective wheels together, equally distributing power to both sides. They're particularly useful in situations where one wheel loses traction when driving over rocks, slippery surfaces, or steep inclines. Electronic locking differentials, also known as "E-Lockers," maintain the vehicle's momentum and prevent wheel spin, overcoming difficult obstacles.

Keep in mind, locking differentials on some Ford models are selectable, meaning they can be activated as needed while others offer automatic lockers or automatic locking differentials that work seamlessly in the background. 

How Do Locking Differentials Work?

Locking diffs are devices that distribute power equally between both wheels on an axle. 

Even power is critical in situations where one tire has lost traction while the other wheel receives limited power. A locking differential fixes this issue by connecting the two wheels together with a common axle shaft, forcing them to rotate at the same speed, regardless of whether the other wheel has traction or not. This feature is engaged through a button or switch inside the vehicle or can be activated automatically on some models. 

Electronic locking differentials use sensors, actuators, and a control module to engage or disengage the locking mechanism. This switch is located within the differential housing, which is between the two wheels on an axle. There are many working components that enable the differential to lock the wheels together when engaged such as the differential case, side gears, spider gears, and clutch packs/dog teeth.

A differential case holds the internal components of the differential, including the ring gear, pinions, and clutch packs. The side gears are then connected to the axle and mesh with the differential's spider gears, which are located inside the differential case and connect the side gears. Spider gears are what allow the wheels to rotate at different speeds during normal driving conditions. and the clutch packs or dog teeth are what physically lock the side gears together and prevent them from rotating independently.

Knowing the mechanics of a locking differential also helps make sense of why the lockers should not be engaged during regular on-road driving, as different tire speeds are important for making safe and steady turns. 

Which Ford Cars Have a Locking Differential?

First pioneered in the aftermarket by brands like ARB and Eaton, OEM selectable lockers are now available on a variety of Ford models.

Ford F-150

• 2023
• 2022

Available trims: Limited, Platinum, King Ranch®, Raptor®

Ford Bronco

• 2023
• 2022

Available trims: Raptor®, Badlands®, Wildtrak®, First Edition, Everglades™

Ford Bronco Sport

• 2023
• 2022

Available trims: Black Diamond®, Badlands®, Wildtrak®, First Edition

Ford Ranger

• 2023
• 2022

Available trims: XL, XLT, Lariat

Ford F-150 Lightning

• 2023
• 2022

Available trims: Pro, XLT, Lariat, Platinum

Ford Expedition

• 2023
• 2023

Available trims: Platinum, King Ranch®, Limited, Timberline®

Pros and Cons of Locking Differentials

Before we dive into the pros and cons of locking differentials, it's important to understand that although there are plenty of significant benefits in off-road situations, there are potential drawbacks to consider as well. 

What Is the Benefit of a Locking Differential?

The main benefit of a locking differential is the ability to maximize traction in various off-road conditions. 

Getting stuck in wet sand, deep mud, or other terrains becomes less of an obstacle and more a part of the overall experience of off-roading. With enhanced off-road capabilities, drivers minimize the chance of a wheel losing power and reduce the risk of getting stuck.

When driving on uneven surfaces, a locked differential means that you get the benefit of enhanced stability, preventing the vehicle from tilting to one side when driving on slopes and hills.

Whether you're in the deserts of Arizona or the swamps of Louisiana, you can choose your own path-quite literally. 

What Are the Disadvantages of Locking Differentials?

While locking differentials provide a thrilling off-road adventure, there are a few disadvantages to consider.

High-traction surfaces, such as pavement or dry ground, causes resistance when making turns as each tire has a distributed equal amount of power. This can lead to accelerated tire wear (especially during turns). To address this issue, drivers would need regular maintenance and tire rotations, which only add to the total cost.

Although locking differentials are great for off-roading, they're not so great for the drivetrain components. The increased torque transmitted to the wheels can overload the drivetrain, which strains the axles, joints, and other components. Regularly inspecting your vehicle and performing necessary maintenance would identify issues, but again, would come at the cost of time and money.

Be sure to note that along with these additional costs you may incur, vehicles with locking differentials already come at a higher price point. Adding a locking differential to a standard open differential vehicle will also cost you a pretty penny, so it's best to buy it right from the factory the way you want it. 

How Is Locking Differential Helpful in Scottsdale, Arizona?

A locking differential may not be essential for everyday driving but in Scottsdale, it can provide valuable benefits when driving in the sandy desert terrains of the Sonoran Desert as the improved traction reduces the risk of getting stuck in loose sand. The mountainous areas surrounding Scottsdale are filled with steep inclines and rocky trails, and having the stability and control of the locking differential gives off-road enthusiasts the peace of mind they demand. 

Even in the midst of heavy traffic, whether it be from peak driving hours or the occasional flash flood, a locking differential will help maintain control and traction on the road, keeping all drivers on the road safe.

Find a Ford with a Locking Differential Near Scottsdale, Arizona

AutoNation Ford Scottsdale is your adventure destination in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona. 

Whether you're planning an exciting desert adventure or looking to add more traction and control in your daily life, a locking differential on your Ford vehicle can make all the difference. From the strength of an F-150 to the versatile Ford Bronco, you have plenty of options to make your trip to the dealership worthwhile. 

Discover your next vehicle and visit AutoNation Ford Scottsdale before heading out on the trail. 

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