HEAVY DUTY X-PIN DIFFERENTIAL
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Description
The X-pin differential has been designed for a significant increase in strength over the standard unit. The X-pin copes with more power, and with the addition of the two extra planet gears comes a much smoother drive.
We highly recommend these for all performance applications, as the standard single-pin differential can fail quite quickly with any enthusiastic use.
The design includes two special steel molybdenum coated X-pins with four planet gears and two thrust washers for the outputs shafts. You can either re-use your original output shafts, or we can supply new ones.
For early Minis with Hardy Spicer output shafts, these components are quite hard to find in good used condition and are no longer made, so we suggest to use the later pot joint output shafts and a set of MED Hardy Spicer adapters.
If you're looking to increase traction off the line, the X-pin is still an open diff, so we would look instead towards the MED ATB differential for fast road and trackday usage, or the NXG limited-slip differential for full competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main advantage of a X-Pin differential?
Increased strength. The classic Mini's single differential pin is prone to premature wear, especially when power and grip levels are increased, and the car is driven enthusiastically. For peace of mind, we would highly recommend installing a X-pin on any fast road gearbox rebuild.
Is this a straight swap for a standard Mini differential?
Yes, but some light assembly work is required. There's a video above to show how to assemble the differential. It will suit all classic Mini transmissions.
Do I need anything else to change the differential?
We'd recommend also purchasing a pair of new diff bearings, part number MED-3800-DB, and a set of ARP crownwheel bolts will offer additional peace of mind - part number MED-3502-QB. We also keep new output shafts, part number MED-3703-PJ, if your originals are worn or missing.
Is a classic Mini X-pin diff the same as an LSD?
No, as the X-pin is not designed to increase traction off the line in the same way as a limited-slip differential, only improve longevity. If you are looking to increase traction for a fast road car, take a look at the helical gear auto bias differential, part number MED-3610-HD. For full competition Minis, the clutch plate NXG is a more effective limited-slip differential, part number MED-3600-NXC.
Have you ever used one of these in a racing Mini?
Absolutely, yes, we've used them for decades in competition Minis where the regulations do not allow for a limited-slip differential, such as Mini Se7en. In the many years before Mini Miglia race cars adopted a helical gear auto bias differential, most competitors used one of these to good effect. They work in all applications from standard 850 Minis to full circuit racing cars.
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