TORSEN Front Differential in the 2012 Raptor

[BigJ]

From the order guide:

TORSEN® Front Differential
• Standard on the SVT Raptor, the TORSEN (torquesensing)
differential uses a parallel helical gear
system to sense torque differences between the
front axles/wheels and provides maximum torque to
the wheel with the most traction
• The differential continuously manages power
delivery between the front axles/wheels helping to
maximize available traction over a wide variety of
surface conditions
• By providing a better balance of power, not only
between the front wheels but between the front and
the electronic locking differential-controlled rear
wheels as well, overall vehicle acceleration, handling
and traction are significantly improved
• Includes aluminum differential cover

Can you experts do a little translating for us amateurs? Specifically, why do you think Ford went to this diff, vs keeping the open design of the '10/11? If I understand correctly, a TORSEN is TORque SENsing, meaning it won't lock on demand; is that right? Do you think this is a good move on Ford's part? Why/why not? Any other info?

 

[The Tank]

Torsen diffs are awesome. In some racing series a Torsen diff is illegal because it gives you a very noticeable advantage going through and out the corners. This is are very good choice for Ford instead of a full e-locking diff. It does everything for you and doesn't require driver input. This is part of the reason why the BOSS302 and BOSS302 LS are so much faster then the M3. I will need to do research to see which is better for me but I think I will be switching to a TORSEN front diff instead of an e-locker.

 

[NoCaDiver]

Thanks Tank for the brief.

I apparently need to watch the differential video again...from the 1960's.

 

[The Tank]

Thanks Tank for the brief.

I apparently need to watch the differential video again...from the 1960's.

Ford does a good job of explaining it. 2012 is not the first time Ford has sold a SVT with a Torsen diff.

 

[NoCaDiver]

^^ Yeah, I was kinda referring to my differential issues, not knowing if a Torsen is any good or what the benefits are, and the video that was posted on here explaining the differential. Plus I don't Torsen was even out in the 60's. :nana:

 

[BigJ]

Thanks Tank!

Any idea if this would be a drop in for us OG's? Any software concerns?

 

[The Tank]

Thanks Tank!

Any idea if this would be a drop in for us OG's? Any software concerns?

An 8.8 carrier is an 8.8 carrier so it should just drop in. I would suggest waiting until after the 2012s drop to make sure you get a Raptor front diff and not a Mustang rear diff. I don't think there would be a software problems

 

[KaiserM715]

I am pumped that Ford is offering this. It shows more progression to off-road capability. Now all I need is a junkyard '12 Raptor....

 

[treypal]

I have to say that I am not excited about this. More stuff to break, more strain on CVs, etc... I rarely use 4x4 though, so I guess it wouldn't really affect me anyhow.

 

[MagicMtnDan]

Now all I need is a junkyard '12 Raptor....

Won't owners of previous years Raptors be able to add this to our Raptors?