When or if mine fails, I think this is the unit you're using.
Detroit Truetrac (TT)
Based on the worm gear principal and works like clutch type positraction. Does not wear out, not recommended for tall tires over 33".
Detroit Truetracs are similar in design to the Gleason Torsen, only the Truetracs hold up well with reasonably tall tires. They use worm wheel gears that work on the same principle as a worm gear. When the unit is loaded, the worm wheels are forced away from each other and against the case. They develop locking torque by the light friction between the worm wheels and the case. This light friction is multiplied by the ratio of the worm wheel which depends on the size of the worm wheel relative to the size of the side gear. The manufacturer can change the amount of torque biasing or lockup by simply changing the diameter of the gears, or the pitch and spiral of the teeth. A larger difference in the size for the worm wheels and side gears (smaller worm wheels and larger side gears) will increase the lockup force. Increasing the pitch and spiral of the teeth will also increase the lockup forces. Like everything, there is a limit as to how much lockup force is reasonable. Making the unit too "aggressive" will cause tire scrub during everyday driving and will cause the unit to wear out too quickly. All of the feedback that I have received from customers indicates that the unit works very well for mud and snow, while going unnoticed during every day driving. When used in situations like rocky trails where one wheel gets off the ground, the unit will not lock up 100%. Light application of the brakes will help the differential engage more transferring power to the tire that is still on the ground. For extreme situations where the vehicle will have one wheel in the air often a locking differential provides better power transfer to the wheel on the ground.
Similar to a:
Gleason Torsen
Worm gear type no longer made by Gleason, but a few models are build by Zexel Torsen. They are very similar to the Truetrac. (aftermarket)
Eaton Detroit Truetrac FAQ’s
What kind of oil should I use? Can I use synthetic? Do I need friction additive/modifier? A quality petroleum/mineral based oil works best in the Truetrac units. We do not recommend synthetic oil. Friction additive/modifier is not required.
Can I use the stock bearings? In most cases the Detroit Truetrac units work with the factory (stock) bearings. The exceptions are: 10 bolt 8.5\8.6 GM axles, the “Performance” Dana 35 & 44 and GM12 bolt with 35 spline axles. No other “special” setup is required.
What kind of break-in is required? The Truetrac units do not require a break in. The unit’s internals will take a little time (depending on driving conditions) to “seat.” Afterwards there will be a slight improvement in its performance.
When does the Truetrac lock up? The Truetrac is a helical gear limited slip differential and never “locks up”. The Truetrac operates by transferring power from the spinning wheel to the wheel with the most traction. If one tire breaks traction, the amount of rotation (or spin) is controlled. The torque is then sent to the other tire that still has traction.
I use my car on the street and on the strip, will the Truetrac hold up? On the street, the operation of the Truetrac will be transparent. You will not know it is there until you need it. In racing situations the unit will apply torque to both tires and launch straight as an arrow, time after time.
How much horsepower and torque will the Truetrac take? There are many factors to consider when determining if a specific differential will last in your vehicle. Horsepower and torque are important factors. However, the weight of the car, tire height/width, the terrain and suspension are all important things to take into consideration. For example, a setup that uses street tires will live longer because both tires will break loose and spin before any real strain is put on the unit. But as the tire gets wider, the stress on the unit increases because the traction is greater. When in doubt, the best bet is to call us with your specific application and driving conditions.
Can Truetrac be used in the front axles of full time 4 wheel drive jeeps and trucks? Yes, it can. You will find will find Truetrac differentials to be very smooth yet effective in either end of your vehicle.
Can I repair the Truetrac if I need to? The worm gears inside a Trutrac are maintenance free, and do not require regular service. Internal failure usually results in the damage of the worm gear pockets. Therefore, they are not rebuildable.
What is the warranty? The Detroit Truetrac unit is covered for one year from date of purchase against defects in materials and workmanship up to a 38.”