s2000Junky

I'm trying to decide which approach is best to take with this project. Ive done a diff swap once already but not with an ap2 diff. I've done a little research on S2ki, sounds like removing the flange on the diffs could be a problem since there is a precise amount of "turning torque" that needs to be applied to the diff and I don't even understand what that means fully, so I figured the best idea is to do it on the trans end since its not as crucial and then replace the drive line with the matching ap2.

I'd appreciate any advice/input on the process for those that have actually done the swap. My understanding is there is a lock nut I need to remove to get the flange off, Ive never had luck removing these so any input on this would be much appreciated as well. Do I just need an impact gun and that will be enough to turn the nut past the lock dimple? I don't have air tools but would purchase an electric one if that will work. Thanks much

drhess06259

you can actually use the flange you just need new bolts which are only like 20 bucks from the honda dealer.

s2000Junky

My understanding is the ap2 diff/drive shaft take a larger 10mm bolt and the ap1's take 8mm, hence the bolt holes in the flanges and drive shaft wont mate. So if you could clarify again what exactly I should do?

drhess06259

it's the holes in the flange on the diff it's self that is different the flange on the driveshaft is the same in all years. if you get get the bolts (I think it's 6 bolts) they will fit on your ap1 driveshaft and bolt into the diff. just go to your local honda dealer or hondaautomotiveparts.com and just look up the 04 diff for the part number for the bolts.

s2000Junky

Hmm im confused now haha, I know what your saying but it seems to contradict what i have read, sorry so your saying I don't need an ap2 drive shaft to mate to the ap2 diff and ap1 trans? So the holes on the drive shaft are not bolt size specific? I just need ap2 bolts for the diff side and re use ap1 bolts for the trans side? I don't need to remove any flanges on either trans or diff to mate to my existing ap1 drive line, is this what your telling me?

SC_Highlander

The input flange on the diff mates to the driveshaft. Buy yourself an AP1 input flange and install it on the AP2 diff. It's just held on by the large nut in the center of the flange. With the AP1 flange, your driveshaft will bolt up with the stock AP1 bolts.

drhess06259

yes I have an ap2 diff in my car with ap2 bolts and an ap1 driveshaft. and ap1 axles.

drhess06259

I have also read of ppl getting just grade 8 bolts from there local hardware store and bolting it up that way...

s2000Junky

I'm trying to avoid replacing the diff flange due to the sensitive nature of proper trq on the nut, id rather replace the trans flange since it is less involved or crucial. With that however I am unclear if doing this I will need a an ap2 driveshaft or if I can re use my ap1. I also have never removed lock nuts with any success so if you can share some pointers on how to do this. thanks!

Stratocaster

If the AP1 prop shaft will mate up with the AP2 flange, as drhess06259 stated, I would go that route.

I know the AP2 shaft is differant then the AP1 shaft, but I have never tryed ti install the AP2 bolts in an AP1 shaft. But drhess06259 is correct, they changed from an 8mm bolt to a 10mm bolt. I don't don't remember which end of the shaft (AP1) takes the longer bolt.