Patrol Rear Crossmember Modification

Modifying the Rear Crossmember for a Nissan Patrol

If a Nissan patrol gets lifted more than 4-5 inch’s, then the rear cross member should be cut or the tailshaft will make contact with the cross member causing damage to both.

We will discuss how to cut the cross member using simple tools most workshops have.

Step 1

Raise the vehicle on a hoist to a comfortable working height; the wheels do not need to be removed for this procedure.

Step 2

With the suspension in full drop you can now mark the area in which you need to cut, use either engineers chalk or similar.

(image 1)

Step 3

Remove the tailshaft from the vehicle, to do this you will have to raise the diff slightly so the tailshaft is not resting on the cross member, if you do not have a gearbox jack you may have to lower the car on the ground.

Step 4

Proceed to cut the top of the cross member out using an oxy/acetylene or plasma cutter, be very careful of sparks and heat near the fuel tank and lines.

(image 2)

Step 5

Once the cross member has been cut use a grinder or wire brush to clean up the cut. By using 3-5 mm steel, plate in the cross member that has been cut. Weld the plate fully.

Step 6

This image shows the cross member finished and painted. The cross member must be refitted with the slip yoke facing forwards to allow for extra clearance.

(image 3)