Limited slip opinions

rs911t · 11-25-2002, 03:55 AM

I have the opportunity to pick up a factory LSD for my '72 911. This particular LSD was actually on the car a a decade ago, but was removed by the PO. I realize installation is not trivial., but I suspect I'll drop the engine in a year or two anyway, so this would be a buy it now, use it later deal.

So, my questions are thus: Is a LSD an update I'd want to make? If so, are they hard to find, such that buying it now is prudent?

He'll sell it for $750.

Greg

jluetjen · jluetjen's Garage

For that price I'd buy it. Most new LSD's are listed in the $1200-$1500 range. I'd just check it to make sure that it is serviceable. Specifically, I'd check to make sure that there are no chips or obvious wear on the ramps. The clutches themselves are wear items which can be replaced. The ramps on the other hand are part of the case.

If you are not going to track the car, it's not clear that the $750 will buy you much for street use. An open diff really is the best compromise (IMHO) for street use.

As far as installation is concerned, it shouldn't be a big deal. You should be able to do it with the engine and transmission in the car. All that you need to do is:

1) Drain the transaxle
2) Remove the inside CVs from the axle flanges.
3) Remove both of the axle flanges from the transaxle. (Throw away the stretch bolts and buy replacements!)
4) Remove the side differential cover to the transaxle.
5) The diff should come right out. You'll need to remove it from the ring-gear on your workbench.
6) Installation is the reverse. Be sure to torque every bolt to spec. Any stretch bolts should be replaced. If you don't want your CV bolts to loosen up, you should replace them and the lock washers also. You should do a search on this BBS for the details of the CV bolts and washers, because there has been considerable discussion regarding the life of the bolts and the lock washers in this application.

dean · 11-25-2002, 04:48 AM

What the last guy said.

I would also add that do you find yourself spinning your tires? If so then you might find the LSD useful. I drive only on the street. My SC has maybe 250 hp. The only time I find that I might need a LSD is when I am going way too fast on the street trying to accelerate out of a corner. So what, I would need one so I could go faster out of that corner? Sure why not. If I had a chance to get one I might do it.

dickster · 11-25-2002, 05:07 AM

i agree.

i have one in my '86. mainly it only sees street use.

but last week it reminded me that it was still there. i went to pull out of a turn just as blown said - but it was wet. for a second one corner lost traction and the car started to slide, but then reassuringly the diff locked and normal service was resumed.

i may go on a skiing trip one of these days so it may come in very handy......

if it ain't gonna break the bank, go for it