Preface
WARNING: Make sure to have a fire extinguisher available. The rubber part of the rear main differential bushing and the fluid inside it are flammable.
Freeze the large differential bushing sleeves overnight before installation. This will allow the material to contract and ease the installation process. Also, put some general purpose automotive grease on the subframe to assist with the install.
Follow Z1's instructions up to step 5. Their instructions to utilize a reciprocating saw for removal of the bushing make the process much more difficult. It's almost impossible to make a hole in the bushing big enough for the blade to fit through. Also, it's difficult to make the horizontal cut at the top of the bushing to remove it as clearances are tight. The drill and torch are the safest, easiest and fastest option.
Instructions for Removing the Rear Differential Bushing
![Image]()
- Z1 Motorsports sells a tool to press the OEM bushing out but strongly advises against it as there's a risk of damaging the subframe. The only option the dealership offers is to change the entire subframe. The total cost for parts and labor is just under $4k.
- If you are interested in upgrading your rear differential bushing I strongly advise to purchase Z1's Rear Drivetrain Support Kit and install all the parts at the same time. The parts included are a phenomenal upgrade for the money and give the car a much sportier feel with a negligible increase in NVH. That is the only reason I was hesitant to perform these upgrades and it's simply not the case.
- As stated in Z1's instructions, it is not advisable for a novice to attempt this install.
WARNING: Make sure to have a fire extinguisher available. The rubber part of the rear main differential bushing and the fluid inside it are flammable.
Freeze the large differential bushing sleeves overnight before installation. This will allow the material to contract and ease the installation process. Also, put some general purpose automotive grease on the subframe to assist with the install.
Follow Z1's instructions up to step 5. Their instructions to utilize a reciprocating saw for removal of the bushing make the process much more difficult. It's almost impossible to make a hole in the bushing big enough for the blade to fit through. Also, it's difficult to make the horizontal cut at the top of the bushing to remove it as clearances are tight. The drill and torch are the safest, easiest and fastest option.
Instructions for Removing the Rear Differential Bushing
- Drill completely through the rubber in the main rear differential bushing as many times as possible
- Use the torch to further weaken the rubber in the rear differential bushing until the center is loose
- Use the pry bar to remove the metal center of the differential bushing
- Use the screwdriver and rubber mallet to knock the main rear subframe bushing ring out of the subframe towards the front of the car. The best place to hit it is between the 6 and 8 o'clock cuts you just made
