Identifying LSD vs. open differentials

[drift a 944]

My 86 944 is in dire need of a new transaxle. Currently it is an open diff with an EXTREMELY loud rattling noise, which I think is an internal noise. My predictions is that its about to explode like my last one did. Wether it does or not though, I would still like to upgrade to an LSD.

Anyway, I came across a junkyard which is home to a few junker 944's, as well as a couple transaxles sitting on a shelf.
I highly desire an LSD and would like to know exactly how to identify an LSD versus an open diff.

I would really love to know if there is a part number or code or something on the outside that informs me its an LSD or open. Otherwise here are some ideas ive tried to help narrow down my search with.

I am not certain on when the LSD was an available option and when it was standard, but I do know that most of the 85 and earlier models probably did not have LSD and they mount to the car on either side of the transaxle, whereas the 85.5 and up mounts once in the center... so the center mounted ones have a higher chance of being LSD. Correct me if I am wrong.

I know there is also a difference in the earlier vs. later models as to where the speedometer censor is located, but I dont think that has any effect on wether it has limited slip or not.

I also know that if you grab both axle sides of the transaxle and can turn them opposite ways, then its an open diff. But the problem is some transaxles at this junkyard are still in the car which is sitting on the ground, or some may have been sitting on a shelf for a long time and temporarily wont break loose.

I would really like to know what the best way to identify an LSD is, and I appreciate any help that anyone has to offer.

Thanks,
-Elliott

[Tervuren]

I've wondered the same thing myself.

Here.

http://www.clarks-garage.com/shop-manual/trans-04.htm

[drift a 944]

wow, that is awesome.. thanks a ton!!!!!!!!

[pinetreeporsche]

The Clark's garage link mentions an option code sticker on the car. So where is that--sounds easier for those of us who have complete service records, so are pretty sure the code matches the car.

[drift a 944]

Originally posted by pinetreeporsche
The Clark's garage link mentions an option code sticker on the car. So where is that--sounds easier for those of us who have complete service records, so are pretty sure the code matches the car.

the option code sticker is in the trunk area. I believe it is under the hatch lock mechanism.

My car was damaged in that area when I got it so it had been removed upon repairs.

[Eldorado]

pull the carpet in the hatch, and you'll see it on the back wall.

you can also jack up the rear of the car and spin a wheel manually... I always forget which way is which... but if you turn one wheel, and the other wheel turns the same way... then you (i think) have LSD.... but you know, i cant remember if that's the way, or if the other wheel spins the *other* way then you have LSD... it's on the forum here.. just do a quick search.

[jwade944]

With LSD, both wheels will turn the same way.

[Eldorado]

cool... i remembered for once.. hehe

[drift a 944]

thanks guys.

hopefully an LSD turns up in this junkyard. because if it does, its free.

[DMRK]

?option code sticker?

Also if you have the factory owners manuals there is a copy of that sticker in the maintenance book.

[Tervuren]

Originally posted by DMRK
?option code sticker?

Also if you have the factory owners manuals there is a copy of that sticker in the maintenance book.

But no guarantee of it being a match. I've got a '89 transaxel in my '86.

[CJFusco]

Originally posted by drift a 944
thanks guys.

hopefully an LSD turns up in this junkyard. because if it does, its free.

Free? Sounds like a good deal. You may as well take all of them, pick the one you want, and make a couple thousand bucks on ebay with the rest.

[drift a 944]

hahaha, nah unfortunatly i can only take one. I am just hoping they have an LSD there somewhere.

what do you think the ratio of finding an LSD is compared to an open diff is? I can only imagine myself finding nothing but open diffs there and having to take one of them. Oh well a free open diff is still better than having to pay for one!!!

[87924gt]

Elliott,
Where in Orlando are you looking? I'd be interested in "finding" the yard your talking about also.
Steve Ed

[drift a 944]

Steve, the junkyard is actually in Miami.

I plan on heading down in a couple weeks to pick one up.

the location is top secret PM me if you are still interested

[Eldorado]

it's a dark parking lot with a 944 parked in it... all that you require is a ski mask, a floor jack, and a few hand tools...

[87924gt]

A ski mask in Miami, now that won't look out of place.
Steve Ed