In a message dated 96-09-03 20:49:24 EDT, vwbus@netbiz.net (John Anderson)
writes:

>installation in 1-2 hours without resetting backlash

I'm sure that's in a typical differential, not a Vanagon's

<snip>
>Now the picture shows some stuff I can't fully comprehend, I assume
>this to be some sort of friction clutch mechanism, but not like the
>factory multi-disc clutch unit, nor like modern Torsen or Quaife geared
>units. 

No. There's no clutch, it's engagement is by metal to metal mesh of large
wide "teeth"

<snip>

This type of differential is generally for off-road use.  It normally stays
in the locked postion until you go around a corner, then it unlocks and
allows differential action.  While on the road, the locking & un-locking can
cause serious handling problems if your not very careful.  A lot of
off-roaders use these in vehicles that see very little on-road use.

For much more info on all sorts of locking & limited slip differentials see:
http://www.a1.nl/phomepag/markerink/diffs.htm

Regards,
Jim Davis
87 GL Syncro
88 GL Wolfsburg