I know that the later freelander has larger bearings due to failures in the early models. I just wondered how bad an early diff would be in a kit car / what causes the failures / would these be any less in a light car. If I fitted new bearings in the earlier diff how long do you think they'd last or is that a waste of time and I should only go for the newer diff. The early diff seems quite common and reasonable money

Thanks Andy

my opinion is that in a light car it isnt going to feel the same torque as in the freelander. Combine with limited miles, and i think they will last fine.

You shouldnt have any problems at all as far as i am aware. As I understand it, it was a problem with the viscous coupling seizing putting extra load on the bearings that caused them to fail. Shouldnt be an issue at all in a kitcar so long as the diff is fine to start with

[Edited on 14/1/08 by Paul TigerB6]

I am just sourcing a freelander diff for my zx10r project. I know very little about kit cars but having been around Land Rovers for 14 years and since freelanders introduction I can say that the early diffs were shocking !!! If you don't mind rebuilding one get an early one. I have the model no of the l;ater type and the cars it should come from. Drop me a u2u and i'll forward the details for you.

Regards

Bob

The small bearing Freelander diff uses bigger diff carrier bearings than a Ford English axle. It actually uses the larger bearings a Tran-x LSD for the English diff use.

They are the same as VW Golf 1.8 gti or Escort RS Turbo.

The main problem with the diff was caused by the rest of the transmission and wheels.

It is ideal for a light kit car unless huge BHP is present.

IMHO it is best to look upon it as an Independent equivalent of the Ford English diff.

Masivv difference between big heavy car + diesel = loads of torq, & small light car with petrol eng wether its bec or cec

Some interesting reading on why the earlier diff's failed. I think the only consideration as to which Freelander diff you fit is whether you want to fit a Quaiffe ATB at some stage as it only fits one version apparently.

Ashcroft Transmissions

Thanks for the replys. Anyone know of any freelander diff's for sale?

Thanks Andy