I have an early 2003 RWD sedan, and a 2004 AWD sedan. On the AWD the diff exploded so the front axles have been removed, leaving only the stub that holds the bearing in and has the ABS ring. I'm having a really rough time verifying if parts fit these particular models.

I know there's a load of threads about compression rods, and I have spent two nights reading them. I'm still unclear about the compatibility of RWD Sedan and RWD Coupe compression rods. Many manufacturers either specify a part is for a coupe, or don't specify at all. Infiniti's parts department lists the same part for both the RWD sedan and RWD coupe (54469M aka 54469-AC70F).

Here are the questions I could really use some help answering:
Q1) Are the RWD Sedan compression arms actually the same as the RWD Coupe compression arms? If so, does this apply to aftermarket too?
Q2)Some folks have mentioned that the RWD compression arms will fit on the AWD, but it rubs and damages the CV boot. Seeming only the axle stubs remain, is it possible to use the RWD compression arms on the AWD?

I have seen the bushing replacements, but would rather replace the whole compression arm to get the new ball joint too. I came across at least one user saying they were able to use the RWD coupe Compression arms on a RWD sedan. Has anyone else done this successfully?

Thanks!
El Cheapo

 

I went ahead and ordered the coupe compression rods for my 2003 sedan, and I can confirm that they are the same part. They appear and fit exactly the same. I used Detroit Axle brand with part number K621373, which states coupe only, and it fit perfectly on my 2003 RWD Sedan.

I think the confusion originates from Infiniti's parts department having ambiguous wording on compatibility, which is then regurgitated on aftermarket part providers' websites. If I'm not mistaken the part fits 2003-2006 coupes and sedans, and only coupes in 2007. So the shorthand on the websites is 2003-2007, coupe only. This leads one to think the part is only compatible with coupes, but that only applies to the 2007 year. I could be wrong on this, but if it is correct, many parts providers are doing both themselves and sedan owners a disservice by not clarifying compatibility.

Long story short, I have installed coupe compression rods on my 2003 Sedan RWD and they are exactly the same. Even the ball joint and the provided ball joint cones fit perfectly. I did not have to reuse the old cones or use washers to get the ball joint to tighten. I hope this helps the next guy looking for answers.