I realize that it might be a little early for this question, but since the '04's are out I figured I'd go ahead and ask. Can you replace an '00 to '03 differential with a new '04 differential? As I understand it, the '04 differential is suppose to be 20% stronger, whatever that means. What parts are the same and what parts are different? If I change the gear set, I would like to strengthen the differential at the same time by updating it to the new '04 configuration. Also, any idea which would be stronger, a comptech reinforced '00 to '03 differential or a '00 to '03 differential with the updated '04 parts? Here is a diagram of the '00 to '03 differential.

 

good question.
i think the 04 comes with a different final drive set as well.

 

Someone needs to get the '04 service manual and copy the blowup diagram for us. I'd like to see if there were any real changes, or just possibly strengthened components (if any).

 

The '04 has a 4.10 ratio, just like the prior models.

 

http://www.vtec.net/articles/view-article?...ticle_id=146907

 

from what i understand, you need to change the flange on the driveshaft to get the ap2 diff to bolt on.....

 

hecash Posted on Feb 13 2007, 12:12 AM
It may work, but its NOT the recommended procedure.

You have no idea what kind of pre-load you're putting on the 2 pinion bearings with that old crush sleeve and without a proper way to measure it.
Too much => the bearings wear out quicker then they should.
Too little => will introduce play between pinion and ring gear during on/off throttle situations and that may ruin a diff.
The crush sleeve between the 2 pinion bearings is for one time use only.
Part # 10 in the picture.
You compress (or crush) it while going for the correct torque & pre-load and then you don't touch it anymore.
Removing the flange (part #1) relieves the pre-load and the only way to set it correctly again is to use a new crush sleeve and take the Torsen (part #3) out of its bearings (part #30).
Basically you're taking you diff apart and you will have to set it up again.

 

actually, i think he's saying it's fine, you just have to do it a certain way or it may mess up things. i myself have an '04 diff on an AP1 car.

 

It works, you just need the ap1 flanges.

I have an 04 diff with 4.56 gears on my 01

 

FOXCONN4 Posted on Feb 14 2007, 09:47 PM
IMO it is a huge No Go for the suggested "just swap flanges" procedure.
Doing it the proper way will take more time and $

rustywave Posted on Feb 14 2007, 10:04 PM
He's right

JDM S2000 Posted on Feb 14 2007, 10:19 PM
To install a 4.56 final drive.... you have to take the diff apart.
Trust me on that one.
https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=395195