Abstract: Method and apparatus for the varying locking rates of a differential gear system has a driven differential cage (1) with two coaxial axle shaft gears (9, 10) retained in cylindrical cavities (7, 8) within the cage. The gears (9, 10) are coupled to each other via groups of compensating gears (11, 12) positioned parallel thereto. Engagement of various compensating gear pairs (11, 12) with both axle shaft gears (9, 10) is sequentially rendered either effective or ineffective, in order to generate a variable, resultant radial and/or tangential force to be applied to the axle shaft gear (9, 10). The force generates a variable frictional force in the support bearings (7, 8) of the axle shaft gears.