2.78:1 LSD Diff suggestions

[Blocker]

I'm seeking some input from you all for my early HJ van. I need to source a 2.78:1 LSD if I go original factory.
However in today's modern world is this diff suitable for metro and highway cruising?

I'm running a mild 253 and trimatic.

Cheers.

[HK1837]

It is probably the best one for your application, the trimatic will take care of the tall ratio. You may have to source one from a HQ or HJ Statesman to get the gears. I think the hemisphere is the same as a 2.6 which you'll get from WB or Commodore.

[Blocker]

I read an earlier post from Ozbox and yourself stating that the 2.78 is quiet noisy. Since I do not have the original diff and axle, what other options are available for a 253 w. trimatic?

[Sandaro]

I think 2.78 is great for highway/open country work. Really anywhere but the drags. I wonder why they are regarded as noisy? Is it inherent in the gear match?

Other options for you Blocker would be 3.08, 3.36, 3.55, and the 3.08 still suited to highway style and more readily available for sale in ute/panelvan housing than 2.78.

[HK1837]

They were regarded as noisy for a Statesman, in a van it'd make no difference especially with the tailgate up.
Other option is a 2.6:1. Or get mounts welded on a VN- VSIII 3.08 diff and get the stud pattern changed to HQ. Requires a tailshaft mod too but will give you rear discs. HZ drums may fit this diff too after a stud pattern change, can't recall exactly.

[Blocker]

Thanks for the input.
I'd be doing more metro driving than country, so more traffic stop/start driving.

[HK1837]

Won't matter with a trimatic. 2.78 or 2.6 are cheaper and easier to find an LSD.

[wbute]

You could go 3:08 if it's a 253 and around town. Is the 253 standard or quadrant and a cam etc?

[Blocker]

Quadrajet with a mild cam.
Is that what you were asking?

[wbute]

Yeah just wondering how much power it was likely to be making. An auto is going to rob it of a lot of its acceleration. A lower diff might be good. Just a thought.