base model to vlsd install
 

Hi guys this is my first post on this forum. I recently bought an 09 base. I've had 2 350's and a g35s sedan all 6mt. I purchased an lsd out of a new nismo model because he tracks his car and bought an aftermarket.

I've searched a little on this forum and wanted to know about the process of installing a factory vlsd on a base model.

My reseach thus far indicates that I will need to buy a stub shaft assembly. Is there anything else that I would need to purchase?

Is this swap difficult?

Thanks in advance!

You do need a "longer?" shaft but diff work can be tricky getting it perfect. I think you need correct shims and such to get it just right. Some have gone to experts for their aftermarket installs and have had to go back a few times. So I guess its hit or miss. Seems easier to buy the whole pumpkin.

well looks like I made a solid mistake in buying it, damn...

You have to do your homework on parts such as these. But what are your serious goals for the car? Then go from there.

yea i guess there is a nismo lsd, and there are lsds that come in the nismo model car which are not nismo lsds... paid 300 for it. Atleast it has less than 1000 miles on it.

My goal is to be able to limit only one wheel spinning when hard on the throttle especially when initiating a small drift or powerslide. Maybe I can still redeem this stupid purchase if I could install this myself. Now I need to dig deep and find out exactly all the parts that I would need to do this install myself.

Wait what? How can a nismo LSD not have a nismo LSD? I don't think the LSD in the nismo is any different than the sport LSD or an LSD you'd buy from nissan.

So the nismo vehicle has the same vsld as other 370s with lsd. However from what im seeing there is an aftermarket nismo lsd that is also available but does not come standard on the nismo vehicle.

Nismo GT Pro Clutch Type Limited Slip Differential

I posted a reply but it had a link in it so it needs to be approved

If you google 370z nismo lsd. You will find a nismo pro 1.5 way. I assumed that was the same as what came in a nismo and after I made a purchase I found that it was not.

I think with enough research I will be able to install this myself. I need to find the part numbers and look for local used parts before I look online. I know the standard lsd is not great but I have had it in my last 3 cars and I do notice the difference in slippage in comparison.

Time to make the best of the mistake! haha

VLSD isn't the best choice for drifting because:

1. The viscous fluid has to heat up before the diff locks up (which takes time, and timing in drifting is key)

2. VLSD's wear out over time and worn out VLSD's act like an open diff

NISMO LSD is different from the VLSD that comes stock with 370z sport package and Nismo z. It is a mechanical clutch type

Get an OS Giken LSD. They have the most clutch plates and are the best in the industry

So if I'm reading everything right you bought an LSD from a nismo edition 370z. This is absolutely different than nismo's 1.5 way LSD that is sold as an aftermarket accessory and does not come standard in any of their vehicles.

The LSD that comes in the nismo edition is the same viscous LSD that comes in the sport version 370z. They will not give you full lock and you will have limited performance gains over your current open LSD. If you are looking for a locking differential I would find a reputable after market version or buy the one you originally wanted which is the real nismo version locking diff.

As it stands, not worth the trouble of swapping over to the VLSD.

interesting. post more findings if you do.

heating up to far also makes them act as an open diff and quite scary as it can open and close without warning.

my choices are get maybe $50 for the dif and be out 250 and then start over with another aftermarket or try to make something happen. Not my best day today. I will let you know If I am able to get this guy installed or if I find it doesnt have a tangable benifit for the cost and effort.

Sometimes it best to cut your losses early as installation for a diff is usually in the $400-500 range (unless you do it yourself). Best to do that step when you actually have what you want rather than what you have at the moment. Just my opinion, your situation may drive you in other directions.

If you can find a cheap low milage VLSD go for it. They are just fine for street use and are the least harsh and daily driver friendly LSDs out there for the money. They don't suddenly go from locked to unlocked backed to locked again like some cheap locking diffs can. A VSLD won't be good for a track since it will heat up and as it does it will slowly become more and more like an open diff till it completely overheats when will not be any different than your current open diff.
Also after 30-50k miles the fluid, not the gear oil, breaks down and will not do its job. This fluid is not user serviceable and a replacement will be needed of the vlsd.