I have an slp torsen take-off unit and I need to know which way the thrust plate goes into the differential. Does it matter?

Yes I know this thread is 10 million years old but I need to know the same thing (clearly I searched this!)

Which way does the thrust plate in a torsen install? The slot in it is angled so it clearly has a right and wrong way to be installed but I can't tell which...it fits both ways

The thrust plate is the loose piece in this pic that keeps the side gears apart

IIRC, it can only go one way and still have the bolt retain it.

RBob.

I understand that it only fits one way lengthwise, such that the bolt retains it through the hole in the loop part that extends from the casting, but I think it can be flipped across its shorter dimension and still install either way. This would affect whether the angled slot is angled into or away from the direction of rotation of the diff.

Doesn't matter. Both wide grooves are radial from the axle centreline and uncurved.

Whereas a vented brake rotor with curved vanes is a left or right piece based on airflow, one with straight uncurved vanes goes on either side.

Similarly, the splash lubricated differential is not going to receive further lubrication, nor will installed strength vary with the retainer paddle facing either side.

Ah. Thank you. That is the complete answer. I can rest easy now. This thread is now complete after 9 years!!