rear LSD vs. center LSD

Dec 31, 2002 | 10:09 AM

Guest

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rear LSD vs. center LSD

Hello All,
I've posted some questions regarding LSD conversion on another forum.
I like to know if anyone has driven a Legacy without LSD (L model) and one with LSD (GT)? Are there any perceivable differences? Is there a big performance/ handling gain with the LSD? 5 speed BTW camparisons btw, please.

The reason why I'm asking is because I am plannning on getting a Legacy this week. The cost of a new 2003 GT is $26K vs. L Special Ed is $21K. Subaru eliminated the last years GT Limited and now has made it the "standard" GT. Unfortunately, it cost about $2500 more than last years GT with extras like leather, heater seat, etc.... non-performance luxuries...stuff I don't really need or want.

On that note... is it possible to convert an L model center slip differential to a rear limited slip differential ? What's involve in this conversion? Cost? Aftermarket vs. factory?

Sorry for the rather basic questions.... I'm will be a newbie to Subarus.

Thanks in advance for any advice/ help/ info.
Happy New Year!!

Dec 31, 2002 | 12:50 PM

DetailAddict

Former Vendor

iTrader: (52)

Joined: Nov 2002

Posts: 6,912

From: San Jose, CA

Car Info: Evo X

awd has 3 differentials... front, center, and rear... which means, a center diff can not be install as rear diff.

open diff vs lsd - with open diff, the gripping wheel can only go as fast as the slipping wheel. with lsd, the gripping wheel has more power than the slipping wheel.

with that definition, your power distribution comes in with the center viscous lsd.

lsd may or may not be important depending on application. if you are on slippery ground a lot, yes. If you race a lot, yes. if you are in SF Cali doing normal driving, no.