If I understand correctly, the 1st gen Sportages through the '97 model year had 26 spline axles in the front and rear. The non-turbo RX-7s (2nd gen/big axle) are also 26 spline, as are the '94-'05 Miatas. I think the turbos had a higher spline count and are not compatible. I have to say that there's a load of conflicting info on the topic. Perhaps we can clear things up for good with this thread...
To add to the confusion, I called a local Kia dealer and had a chat with the parts guy. I was trying to get the part numbers for the front and rear diffs on the '97 model year. I thought that if they are the same, then that would clear things up. But the guy didn't know the difference between an open diff and an LSD. He couldn't even tell by looking at the diagrams. So after 10 minutes of zero-progress, he said I should come over and check out the parts book myself. I will do that if I can get there before the parts dept closes tomorrow or Saturday.
On another note, I remember finding a few posts in the
Front Limited Slip thread. There was a guy from Thailand that said the rear LSD fits in the front diff housing...
"Hello! everybody I'm yuennong from
KIA@weekendhobby.comIt,s so easy to modify front limited slip by
1. find the second hand rear sportage limited slip (or buy new one)
2. remove only the ABS sensor gear
3. put (install) that rear limited slip into front axle differietial case ... then your sportage are ready to rock-n'roll."
If you read through the posts, it sounds like the rear LSD fits without issues, and that they swap out "everything" except the ABS ring (not needed in the front). The thread on Jen's Sporty (link above) also notes that the RX-7 LSD fits the front and rear, though the details are limited. And that's what leads me to believe the only difference between the front and rear diff assemblies is the size of the ring, pinion and the carrier housing (to hold the larger gear). Ah, but its all here-say until we put hands on the parts...
Last bit - I ordered the Mazda circlips today. The dealer said they'll be in by Thursday of next week. And I think I'm going on a shopping spree at Harbor Freight this weekend to get some tools I'll need for the job, but don't have (anymore). <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />
