It’s no secret that all vehicles have extensive internal parts. They help your car function properly and prevent road mishaps. In this instance, the transfer case and differentials are important parts of vehicles. Check out this comprehensive guide to understand their differences.

What Is a Transfer Case?

A transfer case is a mechanical part that receives power from the vehicle’s transmission and sends it to the front and rear axles. The transfer case and transmission work in unison to control the power sent to the differentials, and they’re found in two-wheel andfour-wheel drive vehicles.

All transfer cases have the same goal, but variants are ideal for heavy-duty and off-road use. The different types of transfer cases include chain-driven, gear-driven, married, and divorced units.

What Is a Differential?

The differential is a complex component in vehicles. It is a case of gears that sit between the front or rear axles of the vehicle and controls the power released from the engine and transmission to each wheel. When you drive, the differential makes adjustments to control the speed of each wheel.

Differentials are critical for turning corners because one wheel must rotate faster than the others to help maintain velocity. Essentially, this component is critical for safety and the vehicle’s longevity.

The Breakdown of Differences

The transfer case and differential are critical vehicle parts. Here are the differences and distinct functions between the two components:

• Transfer cases are only for four-wheel drive vehicles, while differentials are essential for two-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles.
• You connect the transfer case after transmission installation and the differential after the final drive.
• Transfer cases require manual and automatic control to shift drive modes. Differentials don’t require manual or automatic control.
• In two-wheel drive mode, you can operate a vehicle without a transfer case. However, you can’t drive a car without a differential.

Set your vehicle on the road for success with the right parts. Transparts Warehouse is the go-to place for wholesale transmission parts. Need a new transfer case? No problem. Check out our selection of transfer case parts and other great products!