How to identify your GU Patrol steering damper mount (pin/pin vs eye/eye)
Nissan Patrol GU models use one of two steering damper mount styles. The replacement damper in your lift kit has to match the one on your vehicle. This guide shows how to tell them apart.
Quick tip: look at how the stud sits at each end. In line with the damper body = pin/pin. Crosswise (at right angles to the damper body) through a round eye = eye/eye.
The two mount styles
Pin/pin mount: up to 02/2000 (Formula 30008)
At each end, a threaded stud continues straight out the end of the damper, in line with the damper body, with a rubber bush either side of the mounting bracket, held by a nut.
Eye/eye mount: 03/2000-on (Formula 30002)
At each end there is a round eye, and the stud/bolt passes crosswise through the eye, at right angles to the damper body.
Where to look
- Park on level ground with the engine off and the handbrake on.
- Look under the front of the vehicle. The steering damper is a long, shock-absorber-style cylinder that runs between the tie rod/drag link and the front axle/diff housing.
- Check both ends of the damper. A stud running straight out the end, in line with the body, means pin/pin. A stud/bolt passing crosswise through a round eye means eye/eye.
Tip: the ends are often covered in road grime. A torch and a quick wipe make them much easier to see.
Check your build plate date
As a guide, Patrol GUs built up to 02/2000 use the pin/pin mount, and those built from 03/2000 use the eye/eye mount. The build date is on the build plate, usually in the engine bay or on the driver's door pillar.
Some vehicles have had their damper changed, so we recommend checking the mount itself as well as the build date.
Still not sure?
No problem. Choose "I'm not sure" when you order, and we'll confirm your mount style with you before dispatch. You can also contact us with a photo of both ends of your steering damper and we'll identify it for you.