I forgot to turn off my Inter-Axle Differential Lock... My question is addressed ONLY to VETERAN Truck Drivers

Question

I am currently driving a brand new 2008 Freightliner Classic. I haul tomatoes from the fields to the canneries.

In order to maintain maximum traction while rolling through the fields with 80,000 lbs of weight... I engage my Inter-Axle Differential Lock Switch. I KNOW that you are not supposed to drive over 25-30 mph with it engaged!

Last night when I pulleed out of the field and onto the highway... I forgot to turn it off (like I normally do) and I got it up to 10th gear at about 62 mph.

I only went about 4 tenths of a mile before I realized it so I immediately disengaged the switch.

My question to you knowledgable truckers/mechanics is this: Did I do any damage to the rear differential?

The truck seems completely normal!

Awaiting your reply! Thank-You!

Answer 1

THERE SHOULD BE NO DAMAGE DONE.  IF THE TRUCK IS RUNNING FINE AND THE SWITCH STILL ENGAGES WITH NO PROBLEM, IT SHOULD BE OKAY.   IF IT STILL BOTHERS YOU AND YOU HAVE THE TIME OR KNOW SOMEONE THAT CAN CHECK FOR YOU HAVE IT DONE JUST TO PUT YOUR MIND AT EASE.  BUT IT REALLY SHOULDN'T BE NECESSARY.

Answer 2

the switch should say do not engage if wheels are spinning this will drop the intermediate drive shaft.the rear axle is the drive axle the axle closer to the cab is the one that is engaged when you flip the lock out switch..so you should be ok i have done this in the past but i drove 2 miles..if you had broke something in the rearend you would have heard a loud pop..