Due to the unfortunate delay of the PE exhaust system, I need something to tide me over until March or April. Thus, I was considering (and had been for a while) a Cusco LSD for my Z. I had planned to put it off for a while but figure I may as well get it now. The problem is I know next to nothing about LSDs except the job they perform (distribute power to the drive wheels) and why an open differential sucks.

I'm wondering how much driveability would be affected with a clutch-type LSD, how much an install would cost, and whether this is a worthy mod--

 

You'll see a considerable improvement over the open diff on the base model. I didn't see what model you have. anywho, even with the viscous LSD you should have more grip when you start adding more HP, lighter rims, etc. A clutch-type would be a little bit more extreme and more of a mechanical feel for street driving. Have fun with it!!!

 

I suppose this would void the drivetrain warranty, but my understanding is that they are obligated to repair anything with the drivetrain unless that failure was traced back to the aftermarket part.

 

That is the way it is. Assuming that each individual state doesnt have it's own laws on the matter. However keep in mind that warranty adjusters work for Nissan, and will therefore go to any means possible to avoid paying for major repair work. Not to say that Nissan would deliberately avoid their warranty, but it is a business and I wouldn't count on being covered if you do any major drivetrain mods.

 

Daytona

We are using a Cusco LSD type RS in our race car & it works very well on the track, but they dont allow much slip & i personaly would not use one on a road car. OK on the move but very tight and noisy at slow speed EG parking

 

This was my main concern. I was leaning toward the Type MZ, or a unit from KAAZ; perhaps these are less aggressive?

 

Anyone familiar with "The Quaife automatic torque biasing (ATB) differential ..."? They were available for the 300Z and many other cars. A friend is about to put one on his Dodge Stealth. Wondering how it compares with LSD, viscous / clutch...

 

dose anyone know if the cusco diff is the same one for the base model and the other 350's. or is there something different between the two like the axle's or anything else.

 

Thanks for the reply VQ. I know diferentials aren't as glamorus as turbos and superchargers and I don't want to steal the thread but thought the Quaife may be available for the 350 soon and provide a viable alternative to the Cusco. And I'm just qurious. Their company line sounds pretty good but it was all could find, i.e. no articles, reviews, etc. ...

http://www.quaifeamerica.com/

 

Well, I went to Kaaz and asked for their insight, and here's what they said:

Hi Chris,
Thanks for your email. We do have lsd unit for the 350Z available now. They are offered in 2-way version only. 350Z units has a completely new design compared to our traditional lsd units. It is adjustable to many different locking rates to meet your driving need. The unit is very practical from street use to full on racing application. The new design is 67% more aggressive than the old design so for your usage we recommend the locking rate reduced to about 50 ~ 60% locking. For additional information, please email us again or call us at 1-888-522-KAAZ(5229).
Best Regards,
Ray / Kaaz USA

Apparently, 1-, 1.5-, and 2-way is less relevant to practicality as the lockup. So I think I shall be going with Kaaz, since I don't believe Cusco offers an adjustable clutch pack arrangement.

 

Well, ordered the Kaaz unit. Price wasn't so bad, $850. Anyway, it's a 2-way. I'll prolly set it to a 50% lockup. Should be here in a few days, I guess. Problem now is finding a trustworthy place to install. Any suggestions??

Oh, here's more info I gleaned from Kaaz-

 

What delay? I'm getting a shipment in two weeks. As for he LSD yes it is well worth the upgrade especially if you drift the car or track the car. The Kaaz is selectable in how much lock you get which is excellent. The Cusco is also excellent and if you want something REALLY exotic, I have carbon fiber ATS units available that offer whisper silent operation and smooth transition.

 

Hey Daytona-

I'm looking forward to a review! The price on that unit really seems reasonable too.

 

Do I understand you correctly when you say you have a shipment of the PE exhaust for the 350Z coming in? Jeremy of Street Sports said they were delayed until March or April for a U.S. Z fitment. Are any of them spoken for? If not, then I'd like one-

 

They are going fast but not all spoken for. We have no word on the titanium model yet. Should be soon.

 

Dan,

Luckily, the Chris you emailed today and Daytona are one in the same. Thanks for saving me an exhaust; I'm sending out the cashier's check tomorrow morning--

 

Thanks Chris! You'll be one of the first with that beauty.

 

One thing with the Kaaz is that you have to change the diff oil religiously. Clutch type diffs generate a lot of heat due to their friction design and they can break down fluid very quickly. A diff cooler would be recommended also.

Don't forget that you have to rebuild them every 50,000 miles.

 

YOu have to change dif fluid the same as regularly wich is every 15K. As for rebuilding I have YET to see a Kaaz unit need a rebuild even on some cars with 80,000 miles on them. They eventually will need a rebuild but not likely in the time you own the car.

 

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