Hi, seen many videos regarding the installation of the LSD (Limited Slip Differential) on different cars and of course our own R56S and id like an opinion over this mod. It looks like a helpfull mod of having an LSD but i have read and seen broadcastings that claim that having a LSD on bumpy roads is not a easy thing to cope with cause the car can become very jerky in handling. What do you think any personal views on this? Why have it and why not?
I put a Quaife in, and find it very daily driver friendly. Very unobtrusive, but helps especially in wet and white stuff, and when taking corners with power. It reverts to open when there is NO traction on one wheel, but with a light foot, I find it helpful in those circumstances. I've never noticed any jerking or wandering or pulling even on uneven roads.
Depending on the year r56:you have, you MIGHT have an LSD function activated electronically which uses the brake on one side and the open diff to simulated a real LSD. While not as good as the real thing, no drawbacks other than a tiny bit if extra brake wear....maybe slightly long times on a track, but fine for any road driver.
It looks helpful to you in what way? What is your motivation for considering this expensive mod? Are you having issues with a wheel spinning on one side?
The electronic Limited Slip feature can be programmed on to earlier second generation cars. I've read that dealers charge around $150.
For 99% of non track folks this should be enough...all pluss, no negatives like the op is worried about.
I've drive both in an R53. The LSD pulls a tighter line in a corner. I've not heard the people who have them complain about them. I want one eventually.
On the back roads and on the road to enlightenment LSD's usefulness is determined by set and setting. Gonzo told me directly in a dream, so it's gotta be true
I do not believe any LSD available for any FWD car has the bad habits you are concerned about. The bad habits are confined to some of the 4X4 differentials. With a mechanical LSD you will notice the turn tightening up when you get on the throttle. If you autocross you will notice a big difference because you can put down power out of slow corners. The electric diff MINI used on the R-56 JCW will help get the power down out of slow corners. Handling is subjective. Only you can decide what is good or bad. There are only general rules that apply to most people. We all sense different things, and have different perceptions of what we want the car to feel like. None of us control the car the same.
I had a Quaife installed on a 2011 R56 and I have to say there is nothing bad IMHO about the decision to do so. While i notice zero difference in handling on a normal commute, there is an incredible difference in my ability to power out of a turn at an autocross and is most notable and makes me smile ear to ear when on roads like the Dragon. It is one of the best mods I've done to date.