How to read diff codes?

[Dead91silvia]

Hey guys, I just got a 97 LGT wagon with an auto. I was gonna pick up a rear diff for it. Not sure if its the problem, but I might be able to get one for about $40 from a Forester. I'm told 99's are the same.

What I need to know is, how do I read the diff codes? I need a 4.44 from what I'm told. I just need a stock replacement. Not completely sure if I need it, but its a diff of a trans I need and the trans is $500, diff is $40... Figure I'm only out 40 if its not it... Any help would be great! :grin:

[mike-tracy]

Most Diffs don't have a sticker on em, but if the Forester was a 4eat, it has 4.44FD, if 5mt, then 4.11.

[harrymaneuvers]

My auto 99 legacy sedan 2.2L has a 4.11 final drive diff in it... stock.

[Huffer]

This thread might help:
http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/sho ... p?p=791246 (http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?p=791246)

[chuckthefuk]

"The best way to tell for ratios is to take the diff and make a mark at any point (where the splines rotate) and note carefully its position where the shafts exit the diff. Also mark the the prop shaft joining flange very carefully to give another set point.
Turn the propshaft flange until the drive shaft splines have rotated 360 degrees. Count how many times the prop shaft flange goes through 360 degrees and this will give you the ratio.

Just past 4 revolutions = 4.111 diff, almost 4.5 revolutions = 4.444 diff. just under 4 revolutions = 3.9 ratio.... you get the idea" - "GroupNGC8 @ Scoobynet"

From what I've sourced the majority EJ25 (2.5 liter) 4EAT Outback/LSi/GT from 96-98 will have the 4.44.

If you want to "enjoy" the car a bit more you can source a JDM LSD 4.44 w/ axles and it will be a direct bolt on.

Heres a chart of the available cars from US/JAPAN (5MT/6MT only) that had the 4.44 final drive

http://www.spda-online.ca/modules/tinyc ... tc_28.html (http://www.spda-online.ca/modules/tinycontent/rewrite/tc_28.html)

-Chuck

[Hocrest]

There is a 2 digit code stenciled on the top spline of most diffs.

Most 4.44's have a "TP"
Many 4.11's have a "T2"

Unfortunately, I've seen both of those diff's with a different code on them as well. I used to have a FSM chart with the different code's but I can't find it now.

The other sure way is to pull the rear cover and count the teeth.

[Dead91silvia]

I was hoping it was like Toyota's, they have the final drive gear stamped in one of the VIN plates...

Good info though! Thanks! Chuck, I did find that link when I googled it. Just kinda a PITA to do it in the yard, in the rain...

[TGX4776]

If you need a 4.11 Mine should be coming out soon as I am upgrading to a 4.44 for some reason....... ;)

[Dead91silvia]

I need a 4.44...

[TGX4776]

Bummer. I am talking to a guy who has a 4.44 R160 for sale. I'll pass it on to you if I can't do it.