Ceramic Diff + Thrust Balls

[tc2k]

Just wonder what everyone thinks of these if theyve tried them. Do the ceramics tend to slip a bit more than normal balls due to the fact they're harder and are they more likely to shatter?

[OldTimer]

I have been running them for i think it most be around a year now with out any problems, and all the S4's run with them as well, i have never know them to shatter

[SHY]

Do you lubricate these like std. steel balls? Or do you run them dry?

Is it advisable to use fine grit paper on the diff rings? (to get more friction)

[Southwell]

I used Tamiya ceramic lube if i remember correctly.

[SHY]

And they last a lot longer?

Doesen't the diff plates still wear? Or has the problem mainly always been the balls becoming non-circular?

[Southwell]

The plates will always wear as the metal is softer, but they are just consumables imo. The balls should last ages, i get a couple of seasons out of carbide ones, but i replace the plates whenever i do a full rebuild being a big meeting.

[SHY]

Really???

I normally replace the balls for each race. And I replace or sand down the diff rings, put them on a flat surface with grit paper, do circular and X-motions. I think that with some structure on the surface you can run the diff less tight, hence you get a smoother diff. When they are totally polished you must tighten it more, and the diff will feel more notchy.

[bigred5765]

Originally Posted by SHY

Really???

I normally replace the balls for each race. And I replace or sand down the diff rings, put them on a flat surface with grit paper, do circular and X-motions. I think that with some structure on the surface you can run the diff less tight, hence you get a smoother diff. When they are totally polished you must tighten it more, and the diff will feel more notchy.

thats mad, the diff balls are 2-3 time's the price of the diff ring's
The tungston carbid diff balls in are car are over 12 months old and still fine

[Northy]

Jonathans balls are top class!

G

[ben]

yep your DIFF balls are lovely jonathan. My B4 diff is super smoooooth.