Honda CR-Z Wavetrac LSD Installation

Honda CR-Z Wavetrac LSD Installation. Wavetrac announced that they had a limited slip differential available for the CR-Z so we immediately got one in. We’ve had huge success with Wavetrac LSD’s over the years, and many clients state that this is one of the best modifications that they’ve done!

To best understand how the Wavetrac® is truly different from the other gear differentials on the market, you first have to understand the primary problem that the Wavetrac® solves. Zero axle-load is a condition that occurs during normal driving, but creates the most noticeable problems when driving in extreme conditions. Zero or near-zero axle-load is the condition that exists when there is ‘no-load’ applied through the drivetrain, when one drive wheel is nearly or completely lifted (often in aggressive cornering). It also occurs during the transition from engine driving a vehicle to engine braking and back, even with both drive wheels firmly on the ground.

The innovative, patent-pending, Wavetrac® device in the center of the diff responds during these exact conditions when zero or near-zero axle-load occurs. At or near zero axle-load, the axles (and therefore each side gear in the diff) start to turn at different speeds. This speed differential causes the Wavetrac® device to step into action: Precisely engineered wave profiles are placed on one side gear and its mating preload hub. As the two side gears rotate relative to each other, each wave surface climbs the other, causing them to move apart. Very quickly, this creates enough internal load within the Wavetrac® to STOP the zero axle-load condition. The zero axle-load condition is halted, and the drive torque is applied to the wheel on the ground (the gripping wheel)… keeping the power down. Some gear differentials rely solely on preload springs to combat loss of drive. The drawback is that you can’t add enough preload to prevent loss of drive without creating tremendous handling and wear problems at the same time. So, to avoid these problems, the preload from ordinary spring packs must be reduced to a level that renders them ineffective at preventing loss of drive.

The Wavetrac® is the only differential that can automatically add more load internally when it’s required. In the case where both wheels are on the ground during zero axle load, such as during a transition to deceleration, the Wavetrac® device is able to prepare the drivetrain for when the zero torque condition stops, eliminating the delay seen with ordinary gear diffs. What this means for you as a driver is that power is delivered to the gripping wheels for more time and in a more constant manner – making you faster and improving stability. The Wavetrac® truly is different – and its innovative features can make a real difference in your car’s performance. Here are more features that make Wavetrac® even better: The new Wavetrac® Differential brings current gear technology to the market. Internally, its gear tooth forms are optimized for strength and improved oil film retention over competitive designs. The gear package is smaller, reducing overall mass, yet is more durable since particular attention was paid to the tooth strength – optimized for high torque conditions. Attention was also paid to the side gear/axle interface, putting as much material thickness as possible in this critical area – most important when power levels get high. If you appreciate quality, you’ll appreciate Wavetrac®. You can see it, feel it. The Wavetrac® is not just good on paper. They’re build them to last: • High strength 9310 steel gears • Case hardened, billet or forged steel housings • ARP® fasteners throughout.

Here’s the CR-Z transmission prior to disassembly:

The transmission cases is split to expose the internal gears and standard open differential.

Here’s the legendary Wavtrac limited spli differential just removed from it’s box:

The Wavetrac installs in exactly the same way as the OEM differential, so we follow Honda’s instructions.

The transmission is reassembled and she’s good to go!

Outome: Our fist impressions are that the improvement in grip is quite astonishing! We were able to apply full throttle from a standstill with full steering lock, in the wet, and not experience any slip which is truly remarkable.