Abstract: A method of operating a machine having a lockable differential includes monitoring a first operating parameter indicative of wheel slip, and monitoring a second operating parameter different from the first parameter, the method further including controlling locking and unlocking of the differential responsive to the second operating parameter. A machine is provided having an electronic controller including software control logic for controlling locking and unlocking of a differential, the electronic controller being configured to lock the differential where the machine is in an operating mode where wheel slip is likely, such as a digging/dozing mode. Satisfaction of criteria for locking may be recognition by the controller of a predetermined pattern of sensor inputs corresponding with a likely wheel slip condition, or actual slip detection.

Abstract: A method of operating a machine having a lockable differential includes monitoring a first operating parameter indicative of wheel slip, and monitoring a second operating parameter different from the first parameter, the method further including controlling locking and unlocking of the differential responsive to the second operating parameter. A machine is provided having an electronic controller including software control logic for controlling locking and unlocking of a differential, the electronic controller being configured to lock the differential where the machine is in an operating mode where wheel slip is likely, such as a digging/dozing mode. Satisfaction of criteria for locking may be recognition by the controller of a predetermined pattern of sensor inputs corresponding with a likely wheel slip condition, or actual slip detection.

Abstract: A vehicle includes at least one wheel, a parking brake associated with the at least one wheel and a service brake associated with the at least one wheel, and a braking control system. The braking control system interprets operator on/off commands to the parking brake. The service brakes are actuated instead of or in addition to the parking brake when a parking brake application is ordered and the vehicle speed falls outside a preferred vehicle speed range. If the vehicle is stopped and the parking brake is engaged, the parking brake is not disengaged responsive to an operator command until the service brake condition is within a preferred ready range.

Abstract: A vehicle includes at least one wheel, a parking brake associated with the at least one wheel and a service brake associated with the at least one wheel, and a braking control system. The braking control system interprets operator on/off commands to the parking brake. The service brakes are actuated instead of or in addition to the parking brake when a parking brake application is ordered and the vehicle speed falls outside a preferred vehicle speed range. If the vehicle is stopped and the parking brake is engaged, the parking brake is not disengaged responsive to an operator command until the service brake condition is within a preferred ready range.

Abstract: An articulated work machine has a front frame and a rear frame connected for pivotal movement therebetween for steering the machine by an articulation joint. Each of the front and rear frames has two driven wheels, spaced laterally, each having a brake associated therewith. As the machine articulates during steering, one or more of the wheels may lose traction and slip. An electronic traction control system receives measured wheel speed signals and an articulation angle signal, calculates a desired wheel speed responsive to the wheel speed and articulation angle signals, and selectively applies the brakes until the measured wheel speed is equal to the desired wheel speed.