MIP TLR 22 Super Diff bi-metal differential kit review (MIP16020)

More speed, more speed! 

With the new Reedy M3 motor and MIP topshaft in place, the 22T 2.0 is pretty much rockin’.  I had a good experience with the bi-metal outdrives in my B6, and I found a good deal on the same package for my TLR, so decided to add it also.

The MIP Super Diff bi-metal kit is a complete differential kit with everything you need except the actual gear.  You keep your original TLR gear and replace everything else.  Those of you with Associated cars will notice that while the differentials are similar, there are slight differences.  The TLR diff rings are wider, heavier, and a little more expensive.  The kit goes for about $41 online.

The MIP diff basically converts your TLR diff into an Associated diff using the same diff rings.  Converting to Associated diff rings will actually save you money in the long run because the rings are substantially cheaper ($2 rings vs. $6 rings)!  Balls are same between the two (14 3/32″ balls), and the thrust is the same.

The diff plates are aluminum and key into steel outdrives that are separately replaceable.  The entire diff saves 9 grams over the kit parts which is pretty substantial.

In my 17.5t buggy, the weight savings was very noticeable and the car was immediately much faster.  But in my 13.5t truck, it’s nowhere near as pronounced.  I would say it’s a no-brainer for stock buggy if you’re not going to go full MIP pucks, but in a relatively heavy truck and a more powerful motor, it makes a difference, but to a much smaller extent.  It feels maybe 5% faster?  It’s much more important to get a strong motor.

All in all, I added a bunch of speed parts to my truck and dropped about a half second and am now only a few tenths off of my B6 17.5t pace.

Nice little kit and I can finally use all the extra Associated diff rings I have laying around.