LSD throwdown: Cusco RS vs. OS GIKEN

[Dcocci]

I'd like some feedback on both from people who are tracking these diffs. In particular installation (were there any extra parts needed IE-side shafts), and lock up characteristics. I like how the RS is adjustable, and the MOTO IQ article is very helpful, however they talk about lockup being a little harsh for street tires even after they tuned it. I've heard nothing but great things about the OS giken, and that its smooth as silk on the track. As they are pretty similar in price, I figured I'd ask here first before throwing down boku bucks. Also if you have any other suggestions for a clutch type LSD that performs well on track. I can deal with noise, bad street manners, etc. as I don't drive the car much on the street.Thanks!

[Rangerz]

I can speak to the Nismo GT Pro LSD. I considered the 2 you have listed as well but, ended up going with the Nismo set up mainly due to overall cost and what comes with this kit that you have to spend extra for. I can tell you first hand as I did the install myself last weekend that it is a drop in fit. Everything was in spec and utilizing the included instructions and FSM I had no issues at all.

As for drivability I can only say that with figure 8's done and 100 miles or so of highway driving it is very quite. I have it set at 80% and with VDC on turning slow tight corners activates it a little.

I will be tracking it this Sat and Sunday on new BFG R1 285/18 square which should be a good set up.

I can give some further feedback on this LSD after this weekend if you want to hear more.

[Dcocci]

Originally Posted by Rangerz

I can speak to the Nismo GT Pro LSD. I considered the 2 you have listed as well but, ended up going with the Nismo set up mainly due to overall cost and what comes with this kit that you have to spend extra for. I can tell you first hand as I did the install myself last weekend that it is a drop in fit. Everything was in spec and utilizing the included instructions and FSM I had no issues at all.

As for drivability I can only say that with figure 8's done and 100 miles or so of highway driving it is very quite. I have it set at 80% and with VDC on turning slow tight corners activates it a little.

I will be tracking it this Sat and Sunday on new BFG R1 285/18 square which should be a good set up.

I can give some further feedback on this LSD after this weekend if you want to hear more.

That would be great to hear some feedback from you, as I'm also running a 285 square street tire setup (rs3's). I'm wondering if install would be any different for my base diff. Is the GT pro tunable?

[Rangerz]

Yes adjustable 60 , 80, or 100% on the initial torque.

[MAMotorsports]

I have used the Cusco RS, OS-Giken, and the Carbonetic. (Among many others, but this is Z chassis)

Cusco ----- Not worth what you pay for it, clunky, never really felt "right", not very predicable. Seemed to be really susceptible to heat on longer track stints(Tried different fluids)


OS-Giken ---- AWESOME, the BEST one for street use that also sees track, quiet on the street, great lock up, predictable, and VERY tune-able to suit the driver( I like them close to a 1.5 way with less lock up on decel) Only downfall is its the most expensive, but if you have the money its worth it.


Carbonetic(Sadly no longer available) -- I used there 2 way in a drift car, took a large amount of abuse for YEARS with no issues, always predictable and nice to drive with. It was loud and clunky so I would not say it was the greatest for street use.



All these cars saw Street use, drift, drag, road course for long sessions.


PM me if you have any specific questions or post up here!

-Daelen

[Dcocci]

Originally Posted by MAMotorsports

I have used the Cusco RS, OS-Giken, and the Carbonetic. (Among many others, but this is Z chassis)

Cusco ----- Not worth what you pay for it, clunky, never really felt "right", not very predicable. Seemed to be really susceptible to heat on longer track stints(Tried different fluids)


OS-Giken ---- AWESOME, the BEST one for street use that also sees track, quiet on the street, great lock up, predictable, and VERY tune-able to suit the driver( I like them close to a 1.5 way with less lock up on decel) Only downfall is its the most expensive, but if you have the money its worth it.


Carbonetic(Sadly no longer available) -- I used there 2 way in a drift car, took a large amount of abuse for YEARS with no issues, always predictable and nice to drive with. It was loud and clunky so I would not say it was the greatest for street use.



All these cars saw Street use, drift, drag, road course for long sessions.


PM me if you have any specific questions or post up here!

-Daelen

ahhhhh perfect! Thank You for the useful information. After talking to a few people it seems the OS Giken is the way to go. I may need both side shafts when upgrading, but whatever I think it'll be worth it. Thanks again for sharing your first hand experience.

[JARblue]

I have seen some interesting reviews on the WaveTrac diff and would suggest that you check it out

[Rangerz]

Originally Posted by Rangerz

I can speak to the Nismo GT Pro LSD. I considered the 2 you have listed as well but, ended up going with the Nismo set up mainly due to overall cost and what comes with this kit that you have to spend extra for. I can tell you first hand as I did the install myself last weekend that it is a drop in fit. Everything was in spec and utilizing the included instructions and FSM I had no issues at all.

As for drivability I can only say that with figure 8's done and 100 miles or so of highway driving it is very quite. I have it set at 80% and with VDC on turning slow tight corners activates it a little.

I will be tracking it this Sat and Sunday on new BFG R1 285/18 square which should be a good set up.

I can give some further feedback on this LSD after this weekend if you want to hear more.

Wanted to follow up with my observations after tracking with the LSD this past weekend.

1st: Having a proper LSD is a night and day difference putting power to the ground on corner exit. Much more precise feeling like you are connected to the car and instantly know what your throttle input is doing to the car dynamics.

2nd: High speed breaking, I have the 1.5 way set at 80% and didn't have any negative feeling the car wanted to lock up on down shifts or hard breaking zones...very stable.

3rd: My cooler works great nothing over 230 deg during 8 20 min sessions.

I mentioned that I went with this due to price. I bought mine through buyee.jp for $900 us + $75 admin fee + 250 Shipping = $1225 I may have had another small fee but, the total was not over $1300.

This is sold as a kit with new seals, bearings, ring gear bolts, and stub axles. You also get 2 qts of Nismo gear oil. You pay the extra cost of all these items with the other LSD's.

The big negative is the wait. I waited almost 2 months before I got it. Once they received and shipped, it was at my door in 4 days.

Install was pretty easy, just follow the included directions. I measured backlash and side bearing clearance on the stock one before I dis-assembled. side clearance was in spec backlash was .007 which is .001 over spec. With the new LSD installed I came out at .006 backlash and had a picture perfect pinion gear to ring gear mesh pattern. Fit was spot on

Anyway there you are hope that helps

[Dcocci]

Fantastic feedback. I will definitely be checking out that website. 1300 is a steal for that LSD. I've seen them for waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay more than that