Hello everyone,

This is my first post here. It’s good to see so many people posting on these forums. It’s very helpful, especially for new owners.

Ok to the point, two months ago I got a 350z 2005 Basic trim. I didn’t even know what the features of the basic trim and I ended up keeping the car until today.
There are many differences between different trims and one of them is the differential.
Correct me if I’m wrong, my basic model has the open differential, which means I have no buttons of neither Traction Control or VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) which is NO FUN AT ALL!

My questions are :
1) Is it worthy to replace the open differential with an LSD?

2) Even if I do this, what’s the deal with the buttons after all? After the replacement, Am I going to add any of these buttons?

3) What is the cost of this replacement? (Labor & parts) location South Georgia, US

4) Should I just sell the basic model and try to get another one? (I’d rather to avoid that if it’s necessary) I have already put some money on the car.

If any of you all have any experience for both open and LSD differentials, or anybody who has done already the replacement, and how they react in terms of driving, please go ahead and give me some advise.
I would be more than glad to see some input on that matter.

Thanks in advance.!

A new owner 👋🏽

 

If you want TCS and VDC, then it would be best to sell your base and get a different Z with those features.

If you don't care about TCS or VDC, then swap out your open diff with an LSD and be merry.

What is the particular reason you want a limited slip diff?

 

What is the difference of having LSD differential with the buttons, and without???
That’s what I’m trying to understand.
If I do the swap to LSD without the traction control or VDC, what are the risks? Are there any?
Because if it’s a matter of just the swap, there is no reason of me selling it.

The real reason if me getting the LSD differential it’s to have more fun with the car.
I have driven a 350Z with the VDC on and LSD differential, and all I can say is that we are talking about two completely different cars.!
The experience and the feeling of having the LSD differential with the option of either traction control or VDC is wayyyyy to different.

 

Having driven and raced the Z33 for almost two decades, I'll contribute my experience to this discussion. Keeping in mind that the VLSD in the OEM models is designed to limit some wheelspin in conjunction with TCS or VDC. Both TCS and VDC use the ABS system to monitor wheelspin and will cutback power (TCS) or limit yaw (VDC) to keep a spin from developing. Either way, VLSD isn't nearly as effective in controlling wheelspin as the NISMO, Quaife or Wavetrac LSDs are. Currently, I use a NISMO multi-disc mechanical LSD in the SCCA T3-spec Z, but must disable the VDC system as it interferes with racing.

So, to answer the OP's question, there's no strong rationale for having TCS or VDC with an aftermarket LSD. Personally, I continue to use the VLSD in my '03 track model because it's the cheapest and easiest solution for a street driven car in Colorado. If cost were no object, I'd love to have a real LSD in my car, and would suggest the OP read the multiple threads about different LSDs on this site to get a better idea of what options are out there. The only real risks I see with driving a base Z without any electronic nannies is you must be careful not to get throttle happy and always launch the car by mashing the gas. In slippery conditions, the car can accelerate unexpectedtly and you may need quick hands to catch it. Squeeze the power on and you'll never go wrong- LSD or not.

 

What do you intend on doing with the car that would make it more "fun"?

 

Do you have some photos to share with us of your car ?

 

to answer the OP's specific question: TCS, VDC, has nothing to do with the rear differential. those are computer-controlled systems. The rear diff is just hardware. with speed sensors.

since you want to keep your base model, I recommend getting a used G35 differential. That's a cheap way to replace your open diff with VLSD And also get a snappier rear gear. I think G35 got 3.69? versus 3.55? I can't recall exactly. it's just a good way to upgrade your open diff and get a little bonus.
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