Operation Manual

Gearbox & transmission
62
THE DIFFERENTIAL LOCK
Unlike many four wheel drive vehicles, all
Land Rover vehicles have permanent four
wheel drive. This is achieved by the inclusion
of a lockable differential between the front and
rear drive shafts. With the differential locked,
the drive shafts to front and rear axles are (in
effect) joined together, causing both to rotate
at the same speed. This is a normal feature
with all four wheel drive vehicles and
enhances traction on difficult off-road
surfaces. However, with the differential
unlocked the different running requirements
of the two axles can be accommodated,
thereby enabling Land Rover vehicles to
operate permanently in four wheel drive for
both road AND off-road use.
Selecting diff lock
The diff lock can be engaged or disengaged
either with the vehicle stationary, or when
driving at any road speed. However, with the
vehicle in motion it is ESSENTIAL to be
travelling on firm ground, in a straight line,
and without wheel slip.
WARNING
DO NOT engage the diff lock if one or more
wheels are slipping - this could damage the
transmission. If wheels are slipping, ease
off the accelerator before engaging the diff
lock.
DO NOT engage the diff lock from the
transfer neutral position.
To lock the differential:
Briefly ease the throttle and move the transfer
gear lever to the left - from either ’H’ (high) or
’L’ (low) position (the warning light on the
instrument panel will illuminate).
To unlock the differential:
Move the transfer gear lever to the right - to
either ’H’ (high) or ’L’ (low) position as
required; when the diff lock disengages the
warning light will extinguish.