11’ FX50 S Rear Diff Bushing

CDNFX50S

CDNFX50S

Member
Car
FX50
Name
Z
Currently in the midst of finding a suitable replacement to my leaking read differential bushing on my 2011 FX50 S

after some research, it seems to be up for debate wether or not similar non 50 S models will fit. And that the 50 S is in its own way.

Possible models that may share the same rear diff bushing include

09’ R35
FX35/37
370Z

pardon my negligence but hoping that someone can chime in.

In regards to the Rear differential type/ model…can anyone provide the mode number for the rear diff. That may allow for a segway for research purposes.

cheers
 
Hi! If you're referring to the bushing that's pressed into the rear subframe where the rear differential stud mounts to, the only options you have is replacing the rear subframe with a new OEM one. Or finding an aftermarket bushing that will work. I replaced mine with a the Whiteline KDT911 kit but that is for an FX35..now I can't say if the bushing sizes are the same dimensions between the FX35 and FX50 but I know for sure that the stud that is on the FX35 is a smaller stud versus the bigger stud on the FX50. The studs can be switched as the threads are identical on the side of the stud that screws into the differential but the other side that goes inside the bushing is bigger on the FX50...and for obvious reasons as the FX50 has more power so they made that bolt thicker...but the bushing's inner metal part where the stud goes through would have to be drilled/machined to match your differential's stud...but once again..you have to see if the bushings are identical in size.

Now doing a quick search for the rear OEM subframe, it looks like it is discontinued in many of the Infiniti parts sides...part number 55400-1CF0D ...but...try calling your local dealership and you can see if someone out there still carries this part...doing a quick search, I see Amayama and Partsouq has them in stock but be prepared to pay for shipping as this is a big part...and they're either shipped from Japan or Dubai..

Another option is to reach out to Febest as they make aftermarket bushing and what not but from reviews they don't last as long so you may need to keep replacing it.

If you try local scrap yards, most of these bushings are toast anyways so there's no point in trying....

I remember spending some time trying to locate an identical OEM bushing but found that most were not for sale and those that were for sale aren't the right size and basically gave up as the only person that could help with this would be someone who works in the Nissan parts warehouse...but even so I doubt they'd find a compatible one. Aside from that differential bushing, there's more bushings that are on the subframe that mount to the truck body and those eventually wear out as well and they are not available either...

If you're truly looking to keep your truck, I'd try to locate the entire subframe and have it replaced...that'll give you many more years of life
 
First and foremost thanks very much for this info.

Your willingness to elaborate on this topic his the “nail on the head”.

I recently purchased this 50 S about a month or so ago. 110k miles on the odometer (when converted from miles to kilometres - as this is a Canadian vehicle).

I also own a QX80, so am somewhat familiar with communicating with head office in regards to parts availability / accessibility; (during the pandemic).

Finding a new sub frame would be ideal. As you mentioned, it seems as if the bushings are difficult to come by. Whiteline is a product that I have used in the past for performance car applications and have been quite impressed by their quality and durability. Furthermore, customizing the part is certainly do-able - but exact fitment is the priority.

I was really hoping that there would be an aftermarket bushing, granted it being susceptible to failure (not only in the 50, but also other models). But I guess due to how unique the 50 is, a solution was never created.


For the time being, I may do a polyurethane injection, just to ensure that the structure of the bushing doesn’t continue to degrade. A band aid solution for now. The remaining bushings on the subframe seem to fine. The torque produced from the rear differential and also this specific bushing has a direct correlation with the torque produced by the diff. So here is to hoping I have some time with the other ones.

Should anything else arise that I cannot find from feedback and info in our forum, I will send you a message.

Again, appreciative of your willingness to be thorough in your reply.
 
anytime! The devil is always in the details. I like to elaborate things to make it very clear. It's good to have options and choose from them. I'll have to admit though when I went from OEM to the whiteline bushing, it was an upgrade. I didn't change the two bushings on the front of the rear diff, just the one in the rear diff...they were fine and didn't see an issue but maybe one day I'll throw those in as well.
 
The FX50 Rear diff bushing is unique to that model, I believe its slightly larger than the v6.
Id be surprised if there is any aftermarket support.
Install a rear diff brace and call it a day.
 
Usually most of critical bushings is just a bit bigger on FX50/QX70s v8. I have figured it out myself when replacing OEM with polyurethane bushing on lower control arms, 1 mm in difference. :)
Try to see if this company can make custom bushing for you, their quality is great. I have ordered numerous bushings for my car from them and for my friends as well, nobody has complained.

You can even define level of hardness of bushings as per your preference.

Order Order polyurethane products for cars with delivery and warranty - manufacturer PoliPro Order polyurethane auto parts: silent blocks, bushings - PolyPro
 
The OEM bushing is constructed with an outer metal tube with the rubber core followed by another smaller metal tube (where the diff stud bolts into).

At the factory they press fit it into the subframe with hydraulics. The easiest and safest way to remove it would be to drop the rear diff, drill holes in the bushing all around so the majority of the rubber core comes out.

Then using a hack saw to cut the thin metal sleeve and removing it. And to be clear, when I say cut the thin metal sleeve, I don't mean the one that is part of the subframe, but the one inside that's metallic looking. It's really thin so a hack saw will be sufficient. Some people use a sawzall..but it's overkill and you risk the chance of cutting into the subframe.

Depending on your subframe condition, you may opt to paint the inside of the bushing but that depends if you want to wait for it to dry. I used 2 part epoxy paint which hardens in a few hours, and assembled the next day. Or you can just press in the new bushing.

Usually there's a grease that comes with the bushing to be lubed before pressing it in. As for tools to press it in, I used a long bolt, washers, a nut and two flat metal plates to create a bridge on the subframe to pull the bushing in. I suggest checking out some Youtube videos just to get a good idea, you don't want to ruin your new bushing or find out you need more stuff to get it done.

If you have access to a lift, this makes it so much easier. I did it with the rear raised on jacks but that diff will have some weight to it so plan to use some hydraulic jack to drop it and roll it out. Oh and a friend or two.
 
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Great explanation, I would prefer dropping subframe. Still didn't do it on mine as just went over 100k kms. Let me know how it goes with the one I sent. ;-)
 
I'd love to replace the four bushing that hold the subframe as well, wondering if there's upgraded replacements for those. I know Infiniti doesn't supply them.
 
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