02 QX4: Pulls to left when accelerate / pulls to right when decelerating

[sjanderson]

I am having a problem / concern with my QX4. Within the last couple months I have noticed a quick, slight pulling to the left when accelerating and a slight quick pulling to the right when I come off the gas. As long as I'm giving it gas, it keeps straight after the intial pull. Same thing when coming of the gas. What could it be? Shocks, springs, mounts? I added some aftermarket rims about a year ago, could this have started the problem?

[CJD91]

Rear Control arms/control arm bushings

[sjanderson]

Thank you, finally someone answered! I took my truck in to a guy who said I should change out all 10 bushings. Is that really needed? I was able to locate info on the forum that stated just the lower control arm bushings. I am going to change out my shocks as well as it is mostly likely time to do so. The Mech. suggested I go with energy bushings??? I called the company that makes them and was told they have not tried it on the Infiniti's due to all the electronics??? But I did nfind someone in the forum that stated it worked. Should I go with OEM bushings or these energy bushings?

Also maybe a dumb question but... The Mech said the bushings were soft, are they suppose to be soft or softer than average bushings?

Thanks

[CJD91]

I wouldn't be a BAD idea to replace all the bushings, but it's probably not needed. You need to replace the ones in the rear control arm to solve your problem.

I wouldn't worry about using an aftermarket bushing as long as it's good quality. These are simple trucks.

OEM is fine though.

[bmlawless]

This is a strange problem. Mine started doing it today out of the blue. It had never done it before, now it pulls right on acceleration, left during decel. Of course it does it two weeks before I am driving 1800 miles!

[sjanderson]

I found some energy bushings at 4x4parts.com at 37.00 per arm. I 'm going to replace the shocks with the GR2's and l replace the lower control arm bushings this week. I'll post the results by the end of the week or beiginng of next.

By the way, any one any suggestions on getting better gas mileage? I'm getting 14 city / 16 hwy now. Could be those 20" chrome wheel?

Thanks

[CJD91]

The mileage actually doesn't sound too far off. Highway is a little low, but normal for someone with a heavy foot.

[bmlawless]

I get 14.6 in town and 18 on the highway. My highway driving is flat ground, consistent speed and 75mph.

[sjanderson]

Well, I'm changing out my plugs as its about time to do so. Staying with the factory suggested NGK Laser Platinum. $10 friggin' bucks a plug though....

How easy is it to change out rear shocks on this truck? I read somewhere in the forum it was pretty easy to do. Can I jack up one side at a time to change them out or do I have to have the rear end completely off the ground?

[sjanderson]

Okay, so it took an additional day but hey, its all done. Changed plugs, rear shocks and replaced old worn bushings with new, better, energy bushings. Truck runs smooth and straight. As a bonus, I added a new Alpine Amp and Box to keep me moving down the road. Riding good, sounding good.

Thanks to all whom helped me understand and work this out accordingly.

[sjanderson]

Final account:

Parts:2 KYB GR2 - Rear6 NGK Laser Plat. Plugs 4 Energy Bushings Lowe control arm (4x4parts.com)4 Lower control arm bots (4x4parts.com)__________________________________Parts Total: $270.00

Labor: $434.00 (mech. from Nissan dealersip)

Total out the door: $704.00

Bonus: Installed Alpine Amp & Sub to factory system

Alpine - 500W Amp - 210.00Apline Sub - 200.00 (R-type)Bassworx - 10" Single Ported Subwoofer Enclosure - 150.002-Channel Differential Converter for Car - 50.004-Gauge Amplifier Power Installation Kit - 83.00tax: 35.00__________________________________________________________Only paid 410.00 and that is with installed

Driving with no problems and extra tunes - Pricless