Simple enough question, but let me just clarify what I "think" I already know......
Viscous LSD (like those found in Sierras and 200SX) are not affected by oil vicosity, as the viscous unit is sealed and seperate from the normal diff oil.
Plated/mechanical LSD (like those found in BMWs and Capris) are affected by oil viscosity, not sure why or how, but I've been informed in the past from various sources that thick oil = faster locking.
The reason for the post is because I posted something on Driftworks regarding putting thicker oil in a 1-way diff to make it lock better. A few people questioned my advice, but when I asked why it doesn't affect it, no one could give me an answer.
I've searched the internet for a couple of hours last night and couldn't find any answers. The only thing I did find was a small section on howstuffworks.com saying......
.....Now if oil affects friction, then surely the thickness of the oil would affect the LSDs operation?
To support what I though I knew
my current E34 535 has a standard 1-way LSD, the previous owner (my mate Dave) replaced the diff oil with Miller 75w140 lsd oil, he said it improved the diffs operation. Is he wrong? was it a placebo? am I wrong in the head? does oil viscosity affect LSD operation? is the moon made out of cheese?
Thanks Robin ;D
Viscous LSD (like those found in Sierras and 200SX) are not affected by oil vicosity, as the viscous unit is sealed and seperate from the normal diff oil.
Plated/mechanical LSD (like those found in BMWs and Capris) are affected by oil viscosity, not sure why or how, but I've been informed in the past from various sources that thick oil = faster locking.
The reason for the post is because I posted something on Driftworks regarding putting thicker oil in a 1-way diff to make it lock better. A few people questioned my advice, but when I asked why it doesn't affect it, no one could give me an answer.
I've searched the internet for a couple of hours last night and couldn't find any answers. The only thing I did find was a small section on howstuffworks.com saying......
The stiffness of the springs combined with the friction of the clutch determine how much torque it takes to overpower it.
.....Now if oil affects friction, then surely the thickness of the oil would affect the LSDs operation?
To support what I though I knew
my current E34 535 has a standard 1-way LSD, the previous owner (my mate Dave) replaced the diff oil with Miller 75w140 lsd oil, he said it improved the diffs operation. Is he wrong? was it a placebo? am I wrong in the head? does oil viscosity affect LSD operation? is the moon made out of cheese?Thanks Robin ;D
