Whats the diff on diff's?

[code3z]

What is the difference between an R200 differential from a 280Z and a R200 differential from a 240SX? The one from the Z has a longer “nose” than the other. Could the guts of the diff be swapped and used with each other?

[Nigel1943]

Simple answer, NO. For one thing all the component parts on a used diff are bedded in to each other and therefore not interchangeale with parts from another used diff. Secondly, the pinion on the two diffs are different lenghts. Thirdly. building a diff is not recommended for the amateur as there numerous fine measurements to adhere to such as pinion depth, backlash to name but two.

[code3z]

Kinda thought that they are not compatable. Just wishfull thinking.

[jmortensen]

The carrier can be swapped.

[ToXIc]

has anyone used a newer SX diff instead of a ZX diff? is the SX diff better stronger... or is it not worth the headache?


ZX diff


SX diff



also what about the subaru diff...

[jmortensen]

Info on using a shortnose diff in here:http://forums.hybridz.org/showthread.php?t=114798

My personal opinion, it's not worth it. When longnose R200's become really hard to find, then maybe it will be. Right now, the hassle with the CVs and the front diff mount make it not worth the effort.

The Subaru diff you have there looks like an R160. That would be a good choice for an autoxer. They can handle a decent amount of power too, and dimensionally they work with the R180 mounts and mustache bar.

[Carl Beck]

Some time ago - I read that the later ZX R180's were built somewhat like the R200's internally, and the 280ZX R180's had four rather than two spider gears.

Strictly looking at the Parts Catalogs - the ZX R180's do seem to have additional parts over the Z R180's, and therefore do seem somewhat the same as the R200's.

Anyone know anything about all this? Are there R180's that came with 4 spyder gears?
(other than the LSD units).

thanks,
Carl B.