2000 model AP1 Diff

[vtec23Q]

hey guys i recently bought an s2k ap1 2000 model and noticed a grinding sound when im travelling at about 50 km/ph only when the roof is up. im guessing its got to do with my diff. i have read many threads with people reporting the same problem and i want to know what the best thing to do to have a stronger diff that wont fail as easy as the OEM diff. your answers will be muchly appreciated. thanks

[sae]

aus2000 is selling a diff in good cond, you might want to give him a pm

[zhong]

Try to replace your diff fluid first before looking to purchase a replacement. But I'd say, it's probably more worthwhile to rebuild your broken one with new bits than buy an unknown condition one. That way, you will know for sure that it won't break as quickly in your time with your S.

[AusS2000]

Thanks Sae.

vtec23Q - If your diff is making a grinding sound it's probably too late. You could try replacing fluid but it sounds like the damage is already done. Still no harm in trying. Will only cost you diff fluid and a bit of time replacing it.

But don't do any clutch drops or harsh driving. If you're hearing a grinding sound something is worn and out of alignment. A little power through the diff will make it worse very quickly.

As to my spare diff, it is not "unknown condition". There are pictures of it open when I had it rebuilt. I then drove on it sedately whilst my original diff was being rebuilt and reinforced and then swapped it out again when complete. It's currently closed up and full of oil but I will happily drain and open for inspection.

http://www.ozhonda.com/forum/showthread.php?152736-S2000-Diff&highlight=s2000+diff

As to stronger diffs, there are some options. You can use a kit from Diff Technics and install a Nissan 300ZX diff. You're talking about $5K for parts. Or you can do what I did and have an S2000 diff rebuilt with stainless collar and end billet endcaps. That's about $4K.

Personally I don't think there is much wrong with the stock diff if it isn't abused. Mine lasted 10 years of FI abuse before telling me it wasn't up to 450hp.

[AusS2000]

Oh, and where are you located vtec23Q?

[zhong]

^^^ Didn't mean to offend you and your diff.. I was just putting it out there that he may not purchase the diff from you? Change your fluid and see if that helps, if not, just do what AusS2000 says! :D

[AusS2000]

Sorry, my response may have been a bit harsh. And your point is valid. When I bought the spare diff I took a risk on it. I didn't know it's history or condition. I was expecting it to be stuffed. So when I pulled it down I was delighted to see that it was in good nick.

[dlai5552]

so, if you diff is starting to go, you can't just simply change the LSD right?
(this is not really my question, more of a question to show my friend something...)

I was reading, it's mainly the whole thing, and general the housing of the diff too.
Anyways, please enlighten :)

[AusS2000]

LSD means Limited Slip Differential and refers to the whole unit. I expect what you mean is the diff center, which in the S2000 is a Torsen or torque sensing (rather than limited slip) unit.

If you have wear issues with the center you won't notice them in a straight line but when turning, so I doubt this is the issue with vtec's diff.

The bit that goes mostly in the S2000 is the crown and pinion:

http://s2000.byteserve.com.au/images/diff/cwp.jpg

But they go because of movement in the housing due to a problem with the sleeve or end caps.

If you catch the problem early your center should be ok. If you have damaged some teeth and bits of metal are floating around the housing it will quickly stuff your center.

[dlai5552]

Hmm, I was actually referring to the LSD as a friend plans to buy one as he says his diff is about to blow. Eg. A spoon lsd

[AusS2000]

Well, you obviously know best. Best of luck to ya.

[AusS2000]

dlai - your inbox is full so I can't reply privately, but don't you think it would be better to discuss publicly? That way you get more opinions from other people and their advice might be useful to others too. Start a new thread.

[vtec23Q]

hey thanks a lot for your answers guys, AusS2000 i am located in bexley and would u please pm me ur number so we can further discuss about the diff? thanks

[AusS2000]

PM'd. And dwbrah an s2kjn are planning to come over Sat afternoon if you feel like popping over then.

[AusS2000]

Just thought I'd better let you know my diff is now sold.