Diff problem really need some help

Well some of you may know I am look for a front diff for 1999 4.6 petrol range rover. I found one on e-bay. (95 pounds) I ask the question the diff for sale would it fit my range rover. Below is the answer that came back.

THIS IS THE ANSWER FROM E-BAY

The simple answer is I don’t know. The 4.6 could have 4 pin diffs. You would need to take the diff out and see if it looks the same, or has 2 or 4 pins for planet gears. Hope that helps,

Is it possible some one could explain if this would be ok? I really don’t know what this means.

Also my rear diff collapse about 6 months ago and now my front one has gone. I have 20” wheels on would this be a cause of the problem. Ho I better mention my range rover has done about 140k miles. I have no complaints about all the things I have had to have done to the range rover. Its been a fantastic motor and will be keeping it as longs as I can.

4 pin is stronger version it has 4 internal planet gears where as the 2 pin only has 2 internal planet gears and is therefor weaker. You could probably ask a main stealer what type you have from their build records but I really wouldnt know otherwise. I can only assume that they are 24 spline and would suggest that if you are blowing them up 4 pin would be an advisable upgrade if they are originally 2 pin (unless they are completley different units) the old ones classic RR were interchangeable. 4 pin are stronger but obviously cost more. As for why you are blowing them up no idea do you do any off roading? If so are you on road tyres? Are you always spinning your wheels? I dunno hope this was some help but I doubt it lol Jai

Having 20" wheels wont make any difference unless you have seriously oversized tyres fitted to them. Diffs on the p38 do suffer a little more than most and will require at least one replacement throughout the life of the motor. I'd say at 140k you're just about due the said replacement. My front was done in jan at 72k and now the rear is starting to moan. Thank your lucky stars.

Could it be a seized viscous coupling putting more strain on the axles?
I must stress is a suggestion for someone with more RR knowledge, I may be talking rubbish!

Davec said:

Could it be a seized viscous coupling putting more strain on the axles?
I must stress is a suggestion for someone with more RR knowledge, I may be talking rubbish!

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Easy to check that. Just jack up one front wheel, you should be able to turn it with some resistance if you can't the viscous coupling is seized.