Differential Question

[theyoungbuc]

Hi, I have an 86 regal limited with olds 307 and 200 4r trans. I was wondering if it has on open or limited slip differential or how to tell which it would be.

Thanks,
Nate

 

[RustRocket]

Jack the rear axle off of the ground, put the trans in neutral and spin the drive wheel (right rear), if the opposite wheel turns the opposite direction, that's open. Or, an easier way would be to only raise the drive wheel, and attempt to spin it. If it spins, open. If you can't spin it at all or if it's very, very difficult then it's limited slip. Also, to find out your rear gear ratio( if you don't already know), you can raise the entire axle, spin the drive wheel, and count the number of rotations of the drive shaft. It should give a rough, but not totally accurate measure of ratio. Hope that helps

 

[RustRocket]

You may also have this tag on the differential like my car: "USE LIMITED SLIP DIFF LUBE ONLY" This could mean it's limited slip, but I believe the tag does not always mean it is limited slip

 

[Bonnewagon]

There should be a stamped code on the front of the pass side axle housing. I'm sure it's all rusty but some wire brushing should reveal it. Then you can post it and find out what the ratio is as well as if it's open or a posi.