Limited-slip rear axle differential — if equipped, Driving on slippery surfaces, Limited-slip rear axle differential – Dodge 2010 Dakota User Manual

Page 251: If equipped

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• The ignition key must be ON for a shift to take place

and for the position indicator lights to be operable. If
the key is not ON, then the shift will not take place and
no position indicator lights will be on or flashing.

LIMITED-SLIP REAR AXLE DIFFERENTIAL — IF
EQUIPPED

The limited-slip differential provides additional traction
on snow, ice, mud, sand and gravel. It improves traction
when there is a difference between the characteristics of
the surface under the right and left rear wheels. During
normal driving and cornering, the limited-slip unit is
similar to a conventional differential. But on a slippery
surface, the differential delivers more of the driving effort
to the wheel having the better traction.

WARNING!

On vehicles equipped with a limited-slip differen-
tial, never run the engine with one rear wheel off the
ground. The vehicle may drive through the rear
wheel remaining on the ground and cause you to lose
control of the vehicle.

Care should be taken to avoid sudden accelerations when
both rear wheels are on a slippery surface. This could
cause both rear wheels to spin, and allow the vehicle to
slide sideways on the crowned surface of a road or in a
turn.

DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES

When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a
wedge of water to build up between the tire and road
surface. This is known as hydroplaning and may cause
partial or complete loss of vehicle control and stopping

5

STARTING AND OPERATING

251

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