Starting a new project...Subaru STI Differential swap into my Z

[Zedyone_kenobi]

I have replaced everything in the drivetrain except the Diff in my Z. I am going to do this in stages.

First I am going to buy an R180 STI LSD differential. Already bidding on one on Ebay.

Next up is the Wolf Creek output shafts so I can bolt up my half half shafts

Finally after I save up a few more dollars, I will get the CV shafts form Wolf Creek to complete the conversion.

I plan to take as many photos as possible. I may drop the rear suspension to replace the spring top hats.

But we will see how bad the 'while I am at its get'

[Walter Moore]

I had heard that this was possible, and I believe that Madkaw may have a Subaru R180 in his car. I know that they look identical to the Nissan unit.

I wonder who really makes them...

[beermanpete]

Yes, easily done. We have the STi LSD in our 240 using the Beta Motorsport (now sold by Wolf Creek) output shafts. I think the R180 is (and was) made by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

[madkaw]

Nope - the same guys that have been making these diffs for years- Fuji

Stephen, you might check the Subby forums too for guys selling there diffs. I got mine from someone who was parting out an STI.

I wish I could afford the driveshafts myself to finish the transition.

So far, nothing bad to report from doing this swap

[240260280z]

Small size and low weight plus LS is a great racing combo.

[Zedyone_kenobi]

Exactly, I am not really sure I need a LSD, but the going rate for STI LSD's is about 450-550 bucks

Throw in the WCR out put shafts and you are looking at 900 dollars for a pretty bulletproof rear end.

[240260280z]

I have a $700 R190 that can't be resuscitated.... trade ya that says it all. Your path is the right way to go. Keep us posted with pics. btw what Subie's can we raid in the J.Y.?

[Zedyone_kenobi]

It must be an STI rear diff, which is the R180 just like ours, the WRX diff is the R160, and it will not work in 240Z's.

My bid for an STI diff fell through... back on the hunt.

Huzzah!

499 shipped to my door!

2004 STI rear diff, 3.90 ratio, LSD, with 45000 miles on it.

Next up is wolf creek racing out put shafts.

Edited October 29, 2013 by Zedyone_kenobi

[Carl Beck]

Zeddyone - what is the axle ratio you are planing on getting? Why such worry about a strong rear gear and set-up? Is a v8 swap in the future?

FWIW,

Carl Bl

[Zedyone_kenobi]

actually no it is not sir. The real reason is that my diff has leaky seals, and has always had a bit whine. I figured if I had a choice, I would love a LSD and a bit higher gear ratio (like an auto 240Z rear end). The STI rear diff and wolf creek half shafts sort of gives me a newer diff, with an LSD, and a higher gear ratio for a pretty decent price. Rebuilt Z diffs seem to go for about 900 bucks. I figured this is a viable alternative.

I would NEVER put a V8 into my car. I love my datsun spirit L28.

The STI rear diff is a 3.90, so it is not a huge step from my OEM diff. Plus if I ever get a 5 speed in there, it will work beautifully.

[madkaw]

Not huge- but a big step from 354 to 390's

You will like the additional Getty up

[ZXR616]

I've got a 280ZXR. I took an R200 and installed a Phantom Grip unit for LSD. Seems to work fairly decently.

Wonder if the Wolf Creek CV's will work on a ZX....Gotta drop 'em a line and find out!!