[DIFF] Pinion and ring gear swap
 

I just introduced myself, so hi ;) I'm new here!

If you are looking for info on all the miata diffs, go here first Beavismotorsport differential guide for Miata MX-5

If you are a diff wizard, please enlighten me. We want that 6 speed with a 3.636:1 torsen diff right? This seems to be the sweet spot when the 5 speed is too weak for your power goals, but other options go a little beyond your budget.

My situation: Currently running a '96 1.8 with the 5-speed to the torsen type-1 (4.30:1) with 1.8 axles and shaft. My question is, what is possible to swap, and what is not?

For example, I have a 3.909:1 open diff on the shelf. Can I swap the pinion and ring gears to the torsen to make it 3.909:1? Eventually I'll swap to a 6-speed, and will probably want the 3.636:1. Looking up an aftermarket set of gears results in 700 dollars a set at MZ-MA02-27-110 - Mazda ring & pinion sets - MiataRoadster - High-performance service...and parts for Mazda Miata Roadsters Now since I live in Europe, All (non-anniversary) NB-FL models should have a 3.636:1 final drive. At least, that is according to the Beavismotorsport diff guide. They don't include the 1.6 NB models though, does anyone have info about those diffs? Finally, would it be possible to scrap the gears from one of those NB-FL open diffs and swap them over to my torsen?

If you read all this, thankyou xD If you can help me with anything at all, I thank you even more! I always type out more shit than I intend to write, sorry! If anything is unclear or incomplete, let me know!

If you are in Europe, can't you just go to the junkyard and get a whole 3.6 rear differential for cheap? Why bother swapping gears?

Hey, Thanks for your reply! I don't think there is such a thing as junkyard torsen diffs. I found that out while getting mine like 3 years ago.. Found a drifter who had one on the shelf. Cost me € 400,- But still works like a charm!

If you mean get a 3.6 open diff, yes I'm planning on doing that, but then swap the gears in my torsen LSD so I can still skid and not lose traction while accelerating all the time. I might not have explained it well enough but my question is, is that possible? Are the gears interchangable between open and torsen diffs?

Thanks

Yes. Gears are interchangeable between all 7" torsen and non torsen diffs

Thankyou :) nice setup yourself. How did you justify getting ebay rods?

Thanks!

i got ebay rods so i dont turn my stock rods into broken bananas.

as far as rods, nothing wrong with maxpeedingrods from ebay, lots and lots of people here use them with no issues. so i saw no need to overpay for brand name one's.

pushing 309whp with zero issues.

Ok, topic question is answered but you got me curious

Damn, never thought I would consider this but you make it seem like the right choice. I was looking at some manley rods for way over 400 euros shipped (not including dumb import taxes), but it seems like I can get the maxpeedingrods for like 230 euros shipped from Germany (which also saves me on taxes). BUT, it would mean ordering from (the european china store/euro ebay) Aliexpress Miata connecting rods which is known for cheap junk (pretty much just like ebay). Really gets me curious and skeptical at the same time. Is this the deal, or should I stay away from this? I can order from some sellers on ebay, but I will probably end up paying close to real brand rods because of my location.

Also the add says "Including Genuine 5/16" ARP 2000 bolts (Note: Extra cost for upgrading to ARP L19 bolts)"

All I can find on that is this:

ARP 2000 “connecting rod” bolt:
Yield strength = 180,000 psi
Tensile strength = 220,000 psi
ARP 2000 rod bolt material has twice the fatigue life of 8740 chrome moly rod bolt material.
Cost = $200.00 per set of 16 at Summit Racing Equipment, or about $13.00 each.
---------
ARP L19 “connecting rod” bolt:
Yield strength = 200,000 psi
Tensile strength = 260,000 psi
ARP L19 rod bolt material is subject to hydrogen embrittlement, and stress corrosion. It also cannot be exposed to any moisture, including sweat and/or condensation.
Cost = $200.00 per set of 16 at Summit Racing Equipment, or about $13.00 each.

Psst, they do certainly have torsen 3.63 diffs over there, fuji as well. I'm running a torsen and imported a few more.

Chinese rods with the ARP2000 bolts are just fine.

They all come from China. Buy them from whoever you trust with your money to help you if there's a problem.