Hey all, before starting a flame war or something of the sort, I'd like to say that I have searched for answers on my questions and there were some interesting ones, but didn't really help me in terms of understanding and fixing the issues.
Background of vehicle
-Base 1996 S14 with 120,000 miles on KA24DE 5 speed fun.
-Clutch is toast very soon as is the transmission mount. Will replace all mounts and clutch at the same time when funds are available.
-Subframe bushings were replaced with a new Whiteline set. Differential bushings are new Energy Suspension. All other bushings are stock (20 years old) as far as I know.
-New stock sized tires/wheels were put on 6 months ago and re-balanced since then. Wheels are in pristine condition minus road grime.
1. I have swapped to a J30 VLSD and a 1 piece Driveshaft Shop steel driveshaft to accommodate the new diff length. Fitment is beautiful. Shifting is precise and the little nylon bushing was just replaced 1.5 months ago. It seems like every time I get to about 40 mph, a vibration noise occurs; almost like a buzzing noise but only with very slight throttle pressure for speed control. This occurred with both driveshaft/differential combos stock/newer stuff. It happens in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Any ideas on why that vibration happens?
2. I am losing oil. I know I have a leak. Valve cover was resealed and cannot see any drips there. Oil pan has last gasket/RTV (not sure which) if pan has ever been dropped. The pan has a thin layer of oil coating it, but no visible areas specifically where it may be from. Obviously oil drips down so it possible my front crank seal is bad? If the rear main seal is bad, I'd see oil at the joint of the bell-housing to engine block correct? Its not a horrible amount of loss but just annoying. Also seem to be burning oil as its dark after I replaced oil very recently. Valve seals? I think I read they kinda suck on KA's.
3. Water leaks. I have water leaks from the side mirror rubber trim. Does anyone know what that piece is actually called or know the part numbers for both sides? I will be getting new weatherstripping for the windows when I replace those pieces as well. If anyone wants a picture of that piece for a "better" reference, I'll include it.
You can fit a non ABS driveshaft with a J30 diff. its tight as hell, but it should fit.
Thank you to everyone that helps point me in the right direction to the ultimate answers!