Editing Z31/vlsdInstall php (section)

=== Assembling the Differential ===

I decided to shim my VLSD while I had it apart. I installed one extra standard ('''0.80mm''') size shim.
Here is a list of the available shim sizes. Each costs about $6.00:

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/VLSDinstall/Shims.png

There are several (about 10) large bolts holding the crown wheel on. To remove these I'd recommend a decent vice and large prybar, or an air gun will work as well.

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/VLSDinstall/ringremoval.png

Once the crownwheel is off, you will see two large Phillips head screws. Remove these and off comes the viscous center.

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/VLSDinstall/Philips.png

Pry the two pieces apart (where you have unscrewed) and you'll end up with this:

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/VLSDinstall/gears.png

Now pull apart and you will see a washer sitting on a flat surface. That's your original preload shim. See below for a rough indication of what it looks like in new form.

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/VLSDinstall/oldshim.png

See below for a rough indication of what it looks like in new form.

https://dev.z31library.com/xenonzcar_archive/z31/images/VLSDinstall/newone.png

The original plan was to double the shim thickness and put more load on the viscous center, 'reviving' it to how an LSD should be. If you're like me, 1 extra shim just isn't enough for drifting (it is great for everyday driving, however). So go on, be a devil and add 2 extra ones if it's mainly for drifting.

* Add 1 new shim to the existing one (total of 2) for a decent, predictable LSD for driving that spins up both wheels with ease—comparable to a brand new viscous diff.
* Add 2 extra preload shims to the existing one (total of 3) for a very solid diff that's very tight but not quite locked (comparable to a Kaaz 1.5 way mechanical LSD).

This splines the two different splined parts of the diff center together so that when you go to insert the diff stubs at the end, they'll actually fit (easiest way to explain it).

Also, pour new diff oil back in before you put the backing plate on. Hopefully the gasket is still good—if not, use some high temp silicone to seal it before you bolt it up so it doesn't leak everywhere.

More info on how that turned out at the end of this write-up.