Rear differential Coupling Component testing

[CobraJet390]

Is there and easy way to test the Coupling Component? I'm guessing its a 12VDC solenoid. If so, could you simply hook up 12V directly to the input and see if it locks the rear end to the driveshaft?

If this turns out to be the case I was thinking of putting a switched 12V line to the coupling component so I could have a manual, on-demand AWD when needed. Does this sound possible?

 

[joe-diy]

Did you ever do this?

 

[N7turbo]

I hope not. Mazda will tell you it will overheat and risk damage. They aren't that robust from what I hear.

 

[sinistriel@]

The couplings are strong and the solenoid is an amperage command from a module up to 3 amps. The issue becomes that the coupling also acts like a center diff. If you were to lock it solid you lose that functionality and you'll break the tcase/rear diff itself driving like that.