Aftermarket 300zx diff alternatives

Turns out my diff might be stuffed - had leader gears installed 8 months ago and it's been progressively getting louder ever since. The mechanic I had check it out is not sure if it's the part or a bad install yet, but said the play in the carrier seems excessive and it'd probably need replacing as well. He told me to start shopping around for one just in case and recommended Eaton TrueTracs, though he said he wasn't sure they did an 300zx version. I'm now fairly sure they don't so am looking for other brands, as the OEM is probably as expensive as aftermarket.

There seem four companies that make them: Quaife, Tomei, Cusco and OBX. I have a R230V (TT) diff and an auto transmission.

First, why does it matter on whether you have an auto or manual on the diff you get? As some manufacturers specify this.

Second, am i right in that only Quaife make one that I might be able to use, seeing as the other manufacturers only make diffs for the R200V (NA) or if they have a TT version they specify manual only?

Any advice appreciated, worst case I'll go second hand OEM but thought I may as well get a new one for only a little more :/

 

I think you have been unlucky, and to try another standard diff first - the TT diff is massive and tough. From what I remember, the auto and manual TT diff are the same.

 

Nismo make a diff too I think

 

Thanks, I'll try to find theirs too.

 

I would, except even second hand I'm looking at around 400-500 going off a quick ebay search. I was thinking if I'm having the stupid thing taken out and the center replaced I may as well spend another $500 and get something new.

If the transmission doesnt make a difference great, that makes things alot easier. Given OEM makes no distinction, I'm not sure why some aftermarket companies do

 

They do. I've got a Nismo 2 way in my zed. For the R200 though.

 

I thought TT and auto are diff ratios but TT diff is very strong even 2nd hand almost bullett proof until you pull it apart and dont get the preloads right on reinstall

 

TT and N/A are different ratios.

All TT diffs are same ratio

 

The only alternative for the TT diff is Quaife, if you can find one.

 

That was the conclusion I was coming to. Do you know why you can't use the others? What do the stock TT and quaife diff have in common? I know quaife is helical cut, didn't think stock was?

 

Stock is viscous. Quaife is a torsen.

And we are talking LSD's here, not the gears.

 

Quaife is a torsen diff and NOT the only alternative

also 2 way (friction clutch discs) diffs
Tomei tech trax
kaaz
http://www.z1motorsports.com/product_info.php?products_id=2547

http://www.aus300zx.com/forum/showthread.php?t=315469&highlight=quaife