2.0 lsd into 1.8 5MT?

Technical Area Engine, Transmission, Exhaust etc
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  1. My model of MX-5 is: 2009 1.8 NC
  2. I’m based near: Norfolk
  3. I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: Swapping a 2.0 lsd into a 1.8

Hi all, this is my first post as a member!

Please let me know if this topic is somewhere else on the forum, I couldn’t find a matching thread.

As the title says, I’m wondering how easy or feasible it would be to get a limited slip diff from the 2.0L into my 5 speed 1.8L, to replace the open diff. Mainly interested for potentially getting the car better suited to the occasional track day but also maybe some wet road fun…

I know there are aftermarket options as well, would be interested if any of the more affordable options are better than the oem lsd? Also if anyone knows any difference in final drive between the 2.0 lsd and the 1.8 open, I’m guessing there will be some because of the extra gear?

Thanks!

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Looking at this table - you need the LSD from a 2.0 SE with 5 speed box to match the 1.8 final drive ratio.
The 2.0 sport diff with 6 speed gearbox would be too high a ratio for the 1.8

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I have a 1.8 and also consider this. The hassle of fitting and the speculative pricing has put me off so far. Just saying….:+1:

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Cheers, didn’t realise the 2.0 came with a 5spd and lsd tbh, don’t suppose anyone knows where I can find the process for swapping the 5spd lsd in?
Thanks

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Yeah Beryl I agree the cost will probably not make it worth it, but I think it’ll be cheaper than finding a 2.0 at the mileage as mine…

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TBH - I would just look for a complete rear diff from a 2.0SE and replace your current one.

Swapping diffs between housings will mean lots of shimming to get correct gear alignment.

Example - REAR DIFF MAZDA MX-5 MK3 (NC) 2005 TO 2015 1999 MANUAL Differential | eBay

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