Quaife ATB Differential for MINI (Gen 3)

The Automatic Torque Biasing (ATB) Helical LSD differential is Quaife's unique design, and is an after-market differential that provides smooth, constant traction for racing or slippery road conditions. This differential has the added benefit of no adverse effect on the steering of a front wheel drive vehicle. Quaife ATB differentials have been used in a wide array of applications, from Formula 1 cars to emergency and public utility vehicles, where all weather mobility is essential, and where the product must perform in the most demanding of conditions.

The differential progressively locks as torque increases; there are no plates or clutches to wear out, unlike the more conventional limited-slip designs. The Quaife differential is particularly effective in combating the effects of FWD torque steer and under steer.

As engine power outputs through modification increase ever further, the ability to use this extra performance becomes more important. Wheelspin may look spectacular, but such loss of traction from either a standing start or exiting a bend wastes time, whether driving on the road, circuit, rally stage or drag strip. Fortunately, QUAIFE's patented Automatic Torque Biasing (ATB) Helical Limited Slip Differential (LSD) is an effective, well-proven, low-cost solution.

As a direct replacement for the standard, factory-fitted ‘open' differential, QUAIFE's unit can transform the performance of any MINI. Unlike a conventional plate-type limited slip unit, QUAIFE's item relies on gears rather than clutch plates for its operation. That means it’s much smoother in operation, as it never locks harshly with a set pre-load of wheel slip across the driven axle. Rather, it automatically biases the torque away from the spinning wheel across the axle, to a constantly varying degree.

How does it work?

Sets of floating helical gear pinions mesh to provide the normal-speed differential action. In the event of wheel slip, torque bias is generated by the axial and radial thrusts of the pinions in their pockets. The resultant friction forces enable the differential to transmit a greater proportion of the torque to the appropriate wheel. The effect is progressive and at no stage does the differential lock solid, hence the inherent safety and user-friendliness of the QUAIFE ATB Helical LSD unit.

To the driver, especially of a front-wheel drive car like the MINI, the results are significant performance improvements; superior, controllable traction without the harsh steering wheel snatch or torque steer that have long been associated with performance differentials.

The QUAIFE differential is quiet in operation, requires no special maintenance or rebuilds, is long lasting, and retains the standard method of lubrication, making for an easy, pain-free upgrade. Proven in rallying, racing and on the road, this differential offers safe, reliable, winning performance - everything you would expect from a QUAIFE product.

Limited Life time warranty
Quaife Engineering also offer their ATB Helical LSD differential with a limited lifetime warranty as a demonstration of the quality of the product.

We strongly recommend purchasing new bearings to be installed at time of fitting to simplify the installation procedure.

Why and when should I fit a Quaife differential to my generation 3 MINI?

Fitting a Quaife differential at any stage of modification will improve drivability, cornering, power application and performance under heavy braking. Under heavy braking the differential works in reverse and transfers torque away from the locking wheel which delays the application of the ABS system and improving deceleration allowing you to brake later than you could when running the standard differenetial.

Required Additional Items/Services - Gearbox oil, driveshaft seals, driveshaft nuts, diff bearings

Lohen Recommends - Combining this with a clutch and/or flywheel job. While the subframe is down, why not fit Powerflex front wishbone rear bushes and sharpen up the handling of your MINI?