Patrol 4×4 – Nissan Patrol Forum

Diff Locks There are two types of 4x4 diff locks- manual and full time. Manual Diff Lock A number of different manufacturers make this type of lock which is actuated manually by switch whenever extra traction is required. The beauty of the manual system is that it can be switched off when slippery side slopes want to send the back of the 4×4 sliding off the track. Full Time Diff Lock Again a number of manufacturers make full time difflocks. With these there is absolutely no driver intervention required to lock them, as these units are engaged and working all the time. However, to unlock a full time unit to turn corners a slight change in driving technique is required. Simply back off the accelerator when first entering a corner and the locker will start to ratchet and allow differential action around the corner. As the vehicle straightens up the locker once again resumes its locked position. One problem with the full time unit is when a vehicle is on a slippery side slope. It cannot be unlocked and could force the rear of the vehicle to slide off the track because both wheels are driving.