Details on AWD power distribution

[scottigee]

Anybody have details on how power is distributed in the AWD? Specifically on the 1G GSX ... all my searches result in GST/GSX debates...I want numbers!

What's the F/R split range? (I would guess 100/0 - 60/40 but I don't know)
Which differentials (Front/Center/Rear?) are limitted slip and are they viscous or clutch?
I've heard some people say they "lose their AWD advantage" at highway speeds...what mechanical elements of the DSM AWD drivetrain would make this so?

And a qualitative question - how are the GSX's distinctly better than FWDs in the turns? Tell me what you know about L/R power transfer.

Thanks guys!

 

[jesepes]

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

Enjoy!

 

[suicidal2af]

Anybody have details on how power is distributed in the AWD? Specifically on the 1G GSX ... all my searches result in GST/GSX debates...I want numbers!

What's the F/R split range? (I would guess 100/0 - 60/40 but I don't know)
Which differentials (Front/Center/Rear?) are limitted slip and are they viscous or clutch?
I've heard some people say they "lose their AWD advantage" at highway speeds...what mechanical elements of the DSM AWD drivetrain would make this so?

And a qualitative question - how are the GSX's distinctly better than FWDs in the turns? Tell me what you know about L/R power transfer.

Thanks guys!

1) 50/50 F/R split.
2) Center is LSD, rear was optional on most years. Both viscous type.
3) AWD has a larger amount of drivetrain loss AOTBE, a fwd will be faster from a roll.

4) It's not L/R power transfer. Splitting the power over 4 wheels applies less load on the steering tires, meaning they need greater slip angles to break loose. This lets you corner faster.

 

[Defiant]

http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=161419
http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=86527

There's some quibbling amongst engineers about tire slip due to weight distribution and some other bizarre "realities" they like to plaster numbers and odd mathematical symbols at, but out here in reality where we don't fall through the space between molecules, it's just 50/50.

Drive and AWD compared to an FWD. It'll ruin you for either 2WD for the rest of your days.

The AWD is the only reason I put up with DSMs.

 

[daveyfx]

The AWD is the only reason I put up with DSMs.

That and they're so damn reliable!

 

[scottigee]

Hey this is fantasic info - thanks guys.

Jesepes - was what you posted DSM-specific or was that just a generic AWDrivetrain description that happens to fit the DSM system? It's a nice little chunk of info.

I've driven a 3000 VR-4, and S4, and a few Subarus and I can tell you I'm already sold on a good AWD system. It's not just an issue from a stop; I"m most impressed at the squatting properties in corners, and of course the lack of understeer.
I just wanted to make sure the DSM system was legit, and it seems to be. I know there are some out there (like Honda CR-V's and Elements) that are basically FWD with minimal rear wheel assistance should the fronts start to slip. Obviously that's not what I want.

Thanks again

 

[Gigaah]

I can't say for sure but that looks straight out of the Mitsubishi Manual.

 

[jesepes]

I found this information on another forum related to DSM's, but I don't know for SURE that it's DSM specific. Someone with a factory maintenance manual should be able to verify that what I posted is actually from the manual or not.

 

[Defiant]

It is. The one in my link was an information leaflet for the dealers.

 

[GeneralChaos]

but by the sounds of the last paragraph on 21-10 from a launch itll be more like 60/40...unless you got the center diff spool or something similar to lock it but then on turns its probably like driving a truck in 4WD