![[Datsun 1200 encyclopedia]](/wiki/upload/wiki.png)
See also: Rear Axle Swaps
Swapping the diff center is easy, quick and inexpensive. If your 1200 has the stock H145 or H165 (Japan) rear axle assembly, the diff head (pumpkin) unbolts and a different one can be put in -- without need special tools or procedures.
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Overview
The Gear Carrier Assembly (pumpkin or "center section" or "diff head"), including Ring and Pinion gears bolted in, are often available from wrecking yards. For example, I purchased 3.54 ratio H615 for $95, and it will go right into a 1200 ute housing. This is less than the cost an expert will charge to install a different ring & pinion (CWP) set into your rear axle assembly.
Easily swapped for racing weekends
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Steps
- Jack up the car
- Remove prop shaft
- Remove axles -- pull them out about 2 inches just so they clear the center sectiom
- Unbolt diff center
- Fit new gasket, and bolt diff center in
- Bolt axles back in
- install prop shaft
- Lower car off jacks
- Re-fill the diff
- Bleed rear brakes
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