Abstract: A differential having variable traction control and permitting preferably infinite planet or side gear braking adjustment during differential operation. In some preferred embodiments, an actuation element is movable during differential operation to exert braking force upon a side or planet gear. The braking force can be exerted directly or indirectly upon a gear surface by a braking element. The amount of braking force is preferably controlled via the actuation element through a range of positions. The actuation element is preferably a lever or similar element movable either to drive a brake element in harder or lighter frictional engagement with a planet or side gear or to drive a planet or side gear in harder or lighter frictional engagement with a brake element. Alternatively, the actuation element can be a set of cables movable to actuate a brake element. In other embodiments, actuation of the brake elements is inherently generated by differential operation.

Abstract: An idler mechanism for maintaining tension on a drive belt of a belt drive system. The idler mechanism includes a pulley mounted to an idler arm for rotation about a rotational axis. The idler arm is attached to mounting apparatus having a resilient and damping element for eliminating vibration and dissipating shock loads on the belt and establishing tension in the belt. In the preferred embodiment the resilient and damping element comprises a torsional bushing having a torsional axis parallel to the pulley rotational axis and a torsional member constructed from a block of resilient elastomeric material which provides both tension and damping.