Hi, I have a new to me 1999 RX 300 and was wondering how I tell if I have the Limited Slip differential. I don't have the original build sheet/window sticker so is there a code in the VIN or on the door label that will tell me for sure if it is limited slip or not?

I'm already planning the trans fluid change and the diff/transfer case oil change. Will I need to add an LS specific additive in the rear diff if it does have LS?

Thanks!

 

The way that I used to check this on vehicles is when I would put a vehicle up on a lift at my uncle's, in neutral if the rear tires rotated the same way (when you rotated one of them), you had a LSD, but if one rotated the opposite way from the other, then you had an open rear end.

Easiest way is just to get an oil that has the LS additive in it and most of the major ones out there do. I recently used Redline 75W90 in our 4Runner for its rear differential, but on my last change in my RX300 I used Royal Purple Maxgear 75W90.

 

Thank you Lexmex. I will try it in the driveway this weekend.

 

Spinning the tires doesn't always work. There are several different LSD out there and not all of them work that way. Not sure what would have come in the RX's, or did they even come with LSD.

 

Yes the LSD was an option, my former RX300 had LSD and was listed on the dealer sticker when I bought the car...in NOV of 1998