differential lock

[/ˌdɪfəˈrenʃəl lɑk/]
nounpl: differential locks
bloqueio de diferencial
1. A mechanical device that locks the differential of a vehicle to prevent wheel slip and distribute torque equally to both wheels, commonly used in off-road or heavy-duty vehicles
The truck's differential lock engaged when the driver pressed the button, allowing both rear wheels to spin at the same speed.
O bloqueio de diferencial do caminhão foi ativado quando o motorista pressionou o botão, permitindo que ambas as rodas traseiras girassem na mesma velocidade.
2. A feature that improves traction by preventing the differential from allowing different rotation speeds between wheels on the same axle
The all-terrain vehicle comes equipped with a differential lock for extreme off-road conditions.
O veículo all-terrain vem equipado com bloqueio de diferencial para condições extremas off-road.
Differential locks are particularly important in Brazilian automotive culture, especially for vehicles used in rural areas, off-road applications, and agricultural settings. The technology is extensively discussed in off-road enthusiast communities in both Brazil and North America. In the USA, it's more prevalent in truck culture and off-road vehicle modifications.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
diff locklockeraxle locktraction lock
Antonyms / Antônimos
open differentialfree differential

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
bloqueio de diferencial
Standard term used across Brazil in automotive contexts
São Paulo
bloqueio do diferencial
Slightly more formal variant with definite article
General American
differential lock / diff lock
Common in off-road and automotive enthusiast communities
Portugal
bloqueio do diferencial
European Portuguese terminology, used in technical automotive literature

Related Words

differentialaxletraction controlfour-wheel drivelimited-slip differentiallocking differential

Related Idioms & Phrases

engage the differential lock
disengage the differential lock
lock the diff
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