Front Coil Lower Insulator

[alyoung]

I am replacing some suspension parts on my 2001.5 Pathfinder Le, i have almost everything i need so far but i'm having trouble figuring out what the (Polyurethane tube) that goes at the bottom of the front coil spring is and/or where to get it. i'm assuming its needed. is there a DIY fix or is it normally omitted when changing springs? Thank you in advance for any help.

[Hawairish]

It's a length of split-tube that goes around the lowest wrap of the coil spring, insulating it from the lower strut perch to prevent metal-metal contact, and consequently noise. Not critical for operation, but you'll want it in place. P/N is 54034-0W010, available from Nissan. Not a terribly cheap part (~$25 each). But it's generally a re-usable part, so you should determine if you think it really needs replacement. It's visible if you turn the wheel in either direction. Poly/vinyl tube from your local hardware store will probably suffice and is significant cheaper.

[alyoung]

Thanks. Yeah i need them the ones on there or the dry brittle shards that remain are useless. if i were to use tube from the hardware store would you have a guess more or less of the diameter? Again thanks

[Hawairish]

My aftermarket springs that are listed at 16mm, or about 5/8". But since the tube can be split to install on the spring, it's kind of irrelevant. The stock insulator only wraps around maybe 75% of the circumference, but only needs to prevent contact on the bottom and outer edges. I think 2' (1' per spring) of 1/2"ID x 5/8"OD clear vinyl or poly tubing would be a suitable replacement, but don't quote me on it.