Hey, I have bought a lsd and need to know if all I have to do is swap out the carrier and leave all the shims the same as they are now. I am keeping the original ring gear and cone gear. can I just swap the ring gear and put the new carrier in or do I have to redo the preloads? Thanks

 

Welcome to ZDriver!

You always want to re-verify that the preload, backlash, and tooth pattern are correct. If this is your first attempt, I suggest you either be guided by a professional mechanic, or just take the carrier and differential housing to a driveline shop and have it professionally installed for ~$100-$200. IMO, unless you have a lot of experience with diff rebuilds (sounds like you don't since you are asking), I suggest not risking a self-install, especially since you probably spent a pretty penny on that LSD carrier.

 

Big thing in the z31 world now days is to used a shimmed VLSD instead of spending $600 on a worn out CLSD that needs to be rebuilt with parts you can't find. I agree though, have someone who has done a few rear ends, take it to a shop or be VERY careful when putting everything together, and yes I would replace all of the bearings, seals and shims with the carrier out.