If you’re looking to improve the performance and handling of your car, installing an OS Giken R200 limited-slip differential (LSD) could be one of the best upgrades you make. Known for its high performance and quality, the OS Giken R200 is a popular choice for car enthusiasts, especially those who track their cars or enjoy spirited driving. But if you’re new to differential installations or don’t know where to start, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the OS Giken R200 install, making the process easier and more straightforward.
What is an OS Giken R200 Limited-Slip Differential?
Before diving into the installation process, let’s quickly cover what an OS Giken R200 LSD is and why it’s so sought after.
The OS Giken R200 LSD is designed to give your car better traction, especially in high-performance scenarios. It helps distribute power to the wheels more efficiently, preventing wheel spin and allowing for smoother, more controlled driving. This is especially useful when you’re cornering at high speeds or driving on slippery surfaces. In simple terms, it keeps your car glued to the road, improving handling and performance.
Now, let’s talk about how you can install it.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need for the OS Giken R200 install:
- Floor Jack and Jack Stands: For lifting the car and keeping it secure.
- Wrench Set: To remove and tighten bolts.
- Socket Set: Especially deep sockets for the differential cover.
- Torque Wrench: To ensure bolts are torqued to the right specification.
- Gasket Maker or Gasket: To reseal the differential.
- Differential Fluid: You will need new fluid for the LSD.
- Small Pry Bar: Helps in loosening stuck parts.
Once you’ve gathered all your tools, it’s time to get started.
Step-by-Step Guide to OS Giken R200 Install
1. Prepare the Car
The first thing you need to do is safely raise the car. Park your car on a flat surface, engage the handbrake, and place wheel chocks behind the tires. Use the floor jack to lift the car, then secure it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Rear Wheels and Axles
Once the car is secure, remove the rear wheels. You’ll need to remove the axle shafts to get to the differential. This can involve taking off a few bolts and unbolting the axle shafts from the differential. Keep a small tray or container nearby to keep track of all the bolts and nuts.
3. Drain the Differential Fluid
Before you start taking apart the differential, you need to drain the fluid. Use a drain pan to catch the old fluid and make sure you dispose of it properly. This is a messy but necessary step to avoid spills when you open up the differential housing.
4. Remove the Differential Cover
Now that the fluid is drained, it’s time to remove the differential cover. Use your socket set and wrench to undo the bolts that hold the cover in place. You might need a pry bar to gently remove the cover if it’s stuck. Be cautious here, as the cover may be difficult to remove due to old gasket material.
5. Remove the Old Differential
Once the cover is off, you should see the stock differential. To remove it, you’ll need to unbolt the mounting points that hold the differential in place. After everything is loose, carefully slide the old differential out of the housing.
6. Install the OS Giken R200 LSD
Now comes the exciting part: installing the new OS Giken R200 LSD. Carefully slide the LSD into the differential housing. Make sure the alignment is correct, as improper installation could cause issues later. Once the LSD is in place, bolt it down using the hardware that came with the kit. Torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications for a secure fit.
7. Reassemble the Differential
Now that the LSD is installed, it’s time to put everything back together. First, check to make sure everything is secure and aligned properly. Then, place the differential cover back on and tighten the bolts. Make sure you use a gasket maker or a new gasket to avoid any leaks.
8. Refill with New Differential Fluid
After the differential is reassembled, refill it with the appropriate amount and type of differential fluid. Always use the fluid recommended by OS Giken or your vehicle’s manufacturer. Overfilling or underfilling can cause performance issues.
9. Reinstall Axles and Rear Wheels
Once the fluid is filled, reinstall the axle shafts and rear wheels. Tighten the bolts to the correct torque and double-check everything to ensure it’s secure.
10. Test Drive and Check for Leaks
Finally, it’s time to take the car for a test drive! Drive it around slowly to make sure the LSD is functioning properly and check for any unusual sounds or leaks. If everything looks good, you’re done!
Conclusion
The OS Giken R200 install can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, knowledge, and patience, you can complete it with ease. By following these steps carefully, you’ll enjoy better traction, improved handling, and a more enjoyable driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the OS Giken R200 LSD compatible with all cars?
The OS Giken R200 is typically designed for vehicles using the Nissan R200 rear differential, so make sure it’s compatible with your car model before purchasing.
2. Do I need special tools to install the OS Giken R200 LSD?
Yes, some specialty tools like a torque wrench and a pry bar are helpful, but the installation can be done with common hand tools.
3. How often should I change the differential fluid after installing the LSD?
It’s recommended to change the differential fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.
4. Will installing an OS Giken LSD improve my car’s performance on the track?
Yes! The LSD helps distribute power to the wheels more evenly, which improves traction and handling, especially in high-performance driving situations.
5. Can I install the OS Giken R200 LSD by myself?
If you have the right tools and mechanical skills, you can install the LSD yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable, it’s best to seek professional help.
