Easy lifehacks

How does a mini spool work in a rear end?

How does a mini spool work in a rear end?

Mini spools are designed to be installed in an existing open differential and are used to replace the side gears and spider gears. They also lock both axles in place so that they both put power to the ground with equal torque and traction. Many weekend racers use mini spools as a lower-cost alternative to a full spool.

What is the difference between a mini spool and a locker?

A mini spool just replaces the spider gears and is cheaper than a regular spool. aka it is like a lincoln locker but not hack. Some spools will not lock up immediately and are turning friendly most are not. A locker is either 100% locked or 100% open and you can choose when so turning and street driving is fine.

What is a full spool diff?

A full spool replaces the entire factory differential case with a solid unit and locks both axles together. This is most usually done in fairly powerful drag cars because they only have to travel in straight lines.

Is full spool better than mini spool?

A mini spool is less expensive than a full spool. Since it swaps in place of the spider gears and side gears installation is easier, faster, and cheaper than a full spool.

Can a BorgWarner be used in an IRS Falcon?

While still a BorgWarner, the 80-series — as used in late-model IRS Falcons and Commodores — is a Dana-derived unit and there is no interchangeability with the earlier 75 or 78-series components. If not for the bolt access holes, axles could be redrilled quite easily.

Can a BorgWarner be used with a Nissan diff?

It would be possible to use the VL or Nissan diff (and accompanying disc brakes) but you’d need custom axles to retain a Ford stud pattern, as you’re unable to redrill the axles to different patterns. In limited slip versions of the BorgWarner (right) the differential carrier separates at the pins.

Where does the differential split on a BorgWarner?

In limited slip versions of the BorgWarner (right) the differential carrier separates at the pins. Open (non-LSD) versions (left) split through the middle of the ring-gear mounting flange

Can a BorgWarner be used as a street car?

Although the BorgWarner is often criticised for lacking strength, it’s a regular Samson compared with things like the old Holden banjo. Ultimately it may not be as robust as a nine-inch but plenty of street cars don’t have enough power and aren’t used severely enough to warrant a nine-inch.

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Ruth Doyle