WRX R-160 in 280Z?

[Ejkej]

Hi Guys!

I know that other options were discussed here and I've read the topic on the R-180 installation, but want your opinion on the R-160.

WRX diffs are common and relatively cheap - opposing to the STI ones, and my main goal is not LSD but 3.9, 4,11 gear ratio.

 

The question is - would installing a R-160 be similar to R-180? Can I go the same route? Swapping drive-shaft flange, and fabricating R-160 axles so they fit the stock 280Z flanges?

Are there any cons of that sollution? I know that R-160s are weaker than R-180, but my HP goals are not huge - I will be happy if I achieve 170-180 HP on the wheels.

Is there anything that makes this swap impossible/very difficult?

 

OK, I have found some info on R-160 on zcar:

- should be good for auto-x events

- the temp might be an issue

- hard launching as well - that might be a problem I like to step my foot down hard.

 

Any experience?

 

Thanks!

Edited October 3, 2011 by Ejkej

[johnc]

For street and autocross use an R160 LSD is fine until your power levels get about 200.

[Ejkej]

John, thanks for answering!

[mario_82_ZXT]

If you want those diff ratios, manual ZXs 81-83 have a 3.9 (and if your car is a stock manual it will bolt right in).

 

If yours was an auto, or has an R-180, or don't mind going to an R-180, the Nissan truck front diffs in a 4.11 are pretty easy to find. There was 3 in a yard local to me.

[Ejkej]

I would love to go that route, but unfortunately, S130 (as well as other Dats) parts are very rare in Europe, and shipping costs from US make it too expensive.

 

Thanks.