Locking Differential v. Non-Locking????

[aemaxin]

I own an AE 5spd and it has been hell trying to find transmission parts for decent prices where I am.... I researched and saw that this is the only year that has the "locking differential" in both the 5spd and automatic, and that is the problem. What are the benefits? Can I swap to a non-locking if I wanted to? Can I swap for the '02-'03 6spd?

SHIFT_none

[maxnix]

a locking differential has many benefits on a front drive car also.

Did you call

http://www.infinitipartsusa.com

to get a quote?

[mikeblucas]

Hello. I am not sure by your comment, "that is the problem", in referance to your locking differential. To what advantage is a non-locking differential any better than a locking? That perticular Maxima line only had the two options of LSD (Limited Slip Differential) or Standard (Open Differential). Limited Slip differentials have always been of the better design when it is in referance to traction and safty. They also had a minimal tie in with early on VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) systems. Unless you have a product flaw within your transmission, we have not had too many issues or complaints with the LSD differentials with in the five or six speed transmissions. My name is Michael Lucas and I am happy to assist you any further. Thank You...

[aemaxin]

What I meant by "that is the problem" was because of my car having the locking diff, it was harder for me to find a replacement transmission and when I do, they are so much more expensive than the others. From the research I have seen, the LSD wasn't put in until the 5.5 gen and that would have been the switch from the locking differential.