Wavetrac Differential for DQ250 02E AWD
Simply put - Wavetrac is the only gear diff on the market that does not lose all drive when one axle is unloaded. Axles become unloaded in aggressive driving, track cornering, extremely slick surfaces, etc. It happens more than most people realise.
We won’t go into torque bias ratios or the concept of how torque biasing diffs work at this point. Let’s get to how the Wavetrac affects performance:
For example, you have a conventional gear diff (OEM, Quaife, MF, OBX, Truetrac, Torsen, etc.), you're on a race track for a track day and during cornering your inside wheel bumps over the curbing. This is normal for track driving. The issue is that for the brief moments your inside tire becomes unloaded when bouncing over curbs, your other wheel is not getting drive - is not putting power down. Gear diffs need load on both axles in order to function. The result on a track (or during aggressive driving) is that there are many times when a normal gear diff supplies only intermittent power to the gripping wheel.
Now, same track with Wavetrac: the patented cam device in the Wavetrac prevents loss of drive when that inside wheel is unloaded. The device is able to generate a load inside the diff (to replace the lost load as it happens) that can then be biased to the gripping wheel - in the end making more consistent power delivery through a corner. That makes the car more predictable, and faster overall.
Other benefits:
- Patented Carbon Fibre Bias Plate for the pinions. All other gear type LSDs run the pinions on the housing, meaning the friction from 0 miles is different to 100 miles, thus effectiveness is reduced over the life of the diff. With the Wavetrac performance is consistent with the Carbon Fibre bias plates!
- Patented Wave Profile eliminates the effect of a near to and zero load condition drive ability issues found in all other gear type ATB LSDs.
- ARP Bolts used throughout for superior faster reliability.
- 9310 steel gears run in billet or forged steel bodies.
- Lifetime, transferable warranty
- Manufactured & Designed in the USA
1. Installation and Fitment Issues
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Incorrect Parking Ring Fitment: One of the most common issues occurs when the incorrect parking ring size (20T or 25T) is used. The DQ250 AWD uses different versions of the differential housing depending on the transmission variant. If the wrong ring size is selected, the LSD will not fit properly.
2. Increased Noise (Initial Break-In Period)
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Noise During Initial Use: After installing a Wavetrac LSD, some owners may experience clicking or clunking sounds, especially during low-speed maneuvers or when transitioning from throttle to coast.
3. Overheating and Lubrication Issues
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Insufficient Lubrication: Like any differential, the Wavetrac LSD relies on high-quality gear oil for smooth operation. Inadequate lubrication can cause overheating, which may lead to premature wear.
4. Performance Limitations in Extreme Conditions
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Suboptimal Performance in Low Traction Conditions: While the Wavetrac LSD is effective in most normal driving conditions, in extreme low-traction environments (e.g., ice, snow, or loose gravel), it may not be as effective as a more aggressive clutch-type LSD.
5. Premature Wear from Aggressive Use
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Track and Racing Conditions: The Wavetrac LSD is designed for street and mild performance driving. Aggressive use in racing or harsh driving conditions (such as drag racing or endurance racing) may result in increased wear due to the increased forces on the differential.
6. Misalignment or Excessive Play
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Alignment Issues During Installation: If the differential is not aligned correctly during installation, it can cause uneven torque distribution and make the vehicle feel unstable, especially during aggressive cornering.