Return to Help Index
Traction Concepts LSD Conversion, Installation and Tech Support
Do I Need to Modify or Machine Anything to Install a Traction Concepts LSD Conversion Kit?
 

Installation Considerations for Traction Concepts Limited Slip Conversions

All Traction Concepts Limited Slip Conversion Kits are custom-engineered to fit your specific OEM differential. Unlike other look-alike products, our kits are specifically designed and tested to ensure maximum performance and reliability. Due to potential variations in differential gear castings, fitment may require slight adjustments. [Learn more about this here]

Before beginning the installation, make sure the differential is removed and placed on the bench, and that you have your Traction Concepts LSD kit ready. This ensures proper assessment of clearance tolerances and guarantees accurate fitment.

In some cases, the gear face that mates with our LSD Disc Plates may need to be resurfaced. This step is part of our research and development to ensure smooth engagement and long-lasting performance. Resurfacing is only needed if the gear face is uneven, which is determined during installation. [More on this here]

Key Installation Tips:

  • Precise fitment is critical for achieving optimal traction and handling. Ensure you order your LSD Conversion Kit based on the year, make, transmission, and differential code of your vehicle.

  • During installation, it’s a good idea to inspect all components to ensure they are in optimal condition. This helps avoid problems and ensures you get the full benefit of your Traction Concepts LSD Conversion Kit.

Need help with installation or have more questions? We’re here to assist you—contact us anytime!

Do I need to use a special oil lubricant, additive, or friction modifier to use the Traction Concepts Limited Slip Conversion?
 

No. You do not need/and should not use a special oil lubricant, limited-slip additive, or friction modifier when using Traction Concepts Limited Slip Differential (LSD) Conversions. Adding friction modifiers can reduce the functionality of a disc-type limited-slip differential by making the faces too slippery. This counteracts the friction necessary for our Traction Concepts Limited Slip Conversion to work properly, leading to a loss of the primary function it was designed for. You can continue to use a high-grade synthetic oil recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer or the one you’ve been using for optimal performance.

If you're engaged in endurance racing, we suggest changing the oil after approximately 20-24 hours of hard use to ensure your LSD remains in peak condition.

Does using Traction Concepts products produce whining or clunking noises?
 

Traction Concepts products are designed to operate quietly and smoothly, ensuring a noise-free driving experience. Unlike some aftermarket options that can generate whining or clunking sounds—often due to improper installation, gear mesh issues, or incompatible lubricants—our Limited Slip Differentials (LSDs) are engineered for optimal performance without unwanted noise.

Whining noises in differentials are typically associated with improper gear setup or worn components, while clunking sounds can result from backlash settings or damaged parts

With Traction Concepts products, you can expect a smooth engagement that enhances traction without the chatter or vibrations that can be found in other LSD replacements on the market.

However, if you choose to upgrade the clutch at the same time, it’s important to note that this can lead to clutch chatter, especially if the new clutch is not properly matched to the LSD or if it has not been adequately broken in. Clutch chatter is a common issue when the clutch disc surfaces are not fully compatible or when there's insufficient lubrication



To maintain the performance and longevity of your differential, we recommend using high-quality synthetic lubricants as specified. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring that your Traction Concepts LSD continues to perform at its best without any noise issues.

For more details on maintaining your differential and ensuring optimal performance, feel free to reach out or check out our Blog News page!

How does the Traction Concepts LSD Conversion function after being installed in the differential?
 

After the installation of a Traction Concepts Limited Slip Differential (LSD) Conversion, the system significantly enhances your vehicle's traction and handling. Here’s how it functions:

  1. Torque Management: The LSD actively manages torque distribution between the wheels. When one wheel begins to spin faster due to a loss of traction, the LSD engages to transfer torque to the wheel with better grip. This action helps prevent wheel spin and maintains control during acceleration and cornering

  2. Improved Stability: Unlike open differentials that allow for complete wheel independence, an LSD minimizes the speed difference between the left and right wheels. This provides better stability, particularly in turns or on slippery surfaces, allowing for smoother handling and improved cornering performance

    Drivers often notice a marked improvement in the car's responsiveness, especially during spirited driving or off-road conditions.

  3. Types of Engagement: The operation of the LSD can vary based on its design. For instance, a one-way LSD engages primarily during acceleration, while a two-way LSD can also engage during deceleration, providing a more versatile performance in various driving scenarios. Traction Concepts performs more like a one-way.

  4. Maintenance Considerations: To keep the LSD performing optimally, regular maintenance is essential. It is recommended to change the lubricant, especially after intense use, such as endurance racing. This helps to ensure that the internal components remain lubricated and that the differential operates effectively

In summary, the Traction Concepts LSD Conversion transforms your vehicle's differential into a more responsive and performance-oriented system, ensuring better traction and stability under various driving conditions. For more detailed insights on the workings of limited slip differentials, you can explore additional resources

What is a Limited Slip Differential and How Does It Help My Car?
 
Traction Concepts LSD Conversion: What Is a Limited Slip Differential and How Does It Help My Car?
If you’ve ever accelerated hard out of a corner, launched your car from a stop, or driven in rain and felt one wheel spin uselessly while the other does nothing, you’ve experienced the limits of an open differential. That’s exactly where a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) steps in—and why so many drivers upgrade to a Traction Concepts LSD Conversion to transform the way their car puts power to the ground.
Whether you’re a weekend canyon runner, a daily commuter, or a track-day enthusiast, understanding LSD technology is one of the smartest ways to improve your car’s performance, safety, and driving feel.

What Is a Limited Slip Differential?
A Limited Slip Differential is a drivetrain upgrade that improves how your car distributes power between the left and right wheels.
A standard open differential sends power to the wheel with the least traction. That means if one wheel slips—on gravel, wet pavement, or during aggressive cornering—your car loses usable power.
A Limited Slip Differential solves this by limiting how much the wheels can rotate at different speeds. Instead of letting one wheel spin freely, an LSD transfers torque to the wheel with more grip, giving you better acceleration, stability, and control.

How an LSD Helps Your Car
Upgrading to an LSD—especially a Traction Concepts LSD Conversion—delivers immediate, noticeable improvements:
1. Better Traction in All Conditions
Whether you’re launching from a stoplight or powering out of a turn, an LSD keeps both wheels engaged.
Less wheel spin, More usable power, Stronger, more confident acceleration.
2. Improved Cornering and Stability
During cornering, weight shifts and traction changes rapidly. An LSD helps keep the car balanced by distributing torque more effectively.
This means:
More predictable handling, reduced understeer or oversteer, and faster, smoother corner exits.
3. Enhanced Performance Without Major Modifications
A Traction Concepts LSD Conversion installs inside your existing factory open differential carrier—no need for a full differential replacement.
You get:
A major performance upgrade without the high cost of a full LSD replacement units sold on the market with the same or better limited-slip performance, and without altering your car’s drivability.
4. Increased Safety on Wet or Uneven Roads
An LSD isn’t just for performance drivers. It’s also a safety upgrade for any regular daily driving car, suv, or mini truck.
On rain, gravel, or uneven pavement, an LSD helps maintain traction and stability, reducing the chance of wheel slip.
Why Choose a Traction Concepts LSD Conversion?
Traction Concepts specializes in precision‑engineered LSD conversion kits designed to fit a wide range of vehicles—from imports to domestics, FWD to RWD.
Drivers choose Traction Concepts because:
Each of the LSD Conversion Kits are custom engineered for the specific OEM differential with durability and performance.
Installation is straightforward for any qualified mechanic, basic tools and knowledge of the disassembly and reassembly of transmissions, and differentials are performed.
They offer a cost‑effective alternative to full LSD replacements.
The upgrade dramatically improves traction and driving feel.
Whether you’re building a track car or simply want more confidence on the road, a Traction Concepts LSD Conversion is one of the highest‑value upgrades you can make.
Basic Understanding of LSD Technology (Quick Breakdown)
Here’s the simple version:
Open Differential: Sends power to the wheel with the least traction.
Limited Slip Differential: Limits slip and sends power to the wheel with more traction.
Traction Concepts LSD Conversion: Installs into your existing differential to create LSD‑like performance without replacing the entire unit.
The result is a car that accelerates harder, corners better, and feels more planted in every driving situation.
Ready to Transform Your Driving Experience?
If you’re looking for a performance upgrade that delivers real‑world results, a Traction Concepts LSD Conversion is one of the smartest investments you can make. Adding a limited-slip to your modifications list/vehicle spec list, adds value to the car.
Better traction. Better control. Better performance.
All from a simple, proven upgrade that enhances your car’s capabilities every time you drive.

Will the Traction Concepts LSD Kit damage my differential or transmission?
 

Will the Traction Concepts LSD Kit damage my differential or transmission?

No. When installed properly, our LSD Conversion Kit will not harm your differential or transmission. It's designed to work with OEM components and has been proven reliable across countless builds.

🛠️ Important Tip:
Inspect your differential before installation. Look for worn gear teeth, cracked parts, or scuffed pins. Any rough or uneven mating surfaces should be smoothed out to ensure proper function and traction gains.

⚠️ Please Note:
Our LSD Conversion kits enhance traction — it does not repair or extend the life of already worn or defective differential parts. We are not responsible for failure due to pre-existing damage, manufacturer defects, or poor maintenance.

Are there any parts that wear and need to be replaced over time?
 

No, Traction Concepts products are designed for exceptional durability and typically outlast the life of the differential and its components. Our Limited Slip Conversions are built to withstand years of use without significant wear.

However, if you notice a change in performance over time, please reach out to us. We are the first and only manufacturer of limited slip LSD Conversions with upgrade tuning capabilities, offering a unique advantage to our customers. This feature allows you to maintain optimal performance even after extensive use, ensuring your LSD conversion continues to meet your driving needs.