C200 vs R200

[Jack Stilts]

Don't mean to threadjack. Just threadborrow

Kind of in the same boat here with the Pathfinder vs the Frontier, just doing some preliminary research for my next platform (a few years out). Currently have an over-built 2002 Xterra that was initially drawn up to be indestructible (armor, lights, tires, etc.), but my goals have changed since then. My Xterra is great, but it's lacking in power, creature comforts, and fuel economy. These three things have become really important to me in the last year.

For my next build, I want it to be simple, subtle, and practical. If I get the Frontier, I'm shooting for the Pro-4X with a 2" suspension lift, maybe bumpers, and a cap / shell. Found out the Pathfinder has more interior room than the 2nd Gen X / Frontier, and that's a big plus for my growing family and dogs. I'd do the same thing to the Pathfinder - a mild lift, maybe some protection, and decent tires.

Can anyone confirm that the R51 with the V8 has the M205? I'd like leaf springs instead of the IRS for better cargo / towing. And this being a mild build, a Titan swap is out of the question

If it does have the rear axle, is it worth the MPG drop vs the V6? Seeing 12/18 for the V8, and that's no better than my current X.

 

[skibum315]

Can anyone confirm that the R51 with the V8 has the M205?

I can, and it does ... though, see below.

I'd like leaf springs instead of the IRS for better cargo / towing.

You'd be better off with the Frontier/Xterra, then ... the R51 Pathy is IRS. It has the R200/R230 independent rear ends for the VQ40 V6 and VK56 V8, respectively. To get the leaf sprung/straight axle rear, you'd need to go with the Xterra/Frontier; or do a full-custom rear SAS. The m205 is the front independent diff.

If it does have the rear axle, is it worth the MPG drop vs the V6? Seeing 12/18 for the V8, and that's no better than my current X.

Sounds about like what I have heard/seen as well ... and about what I get with the VQ40 in my '08 Xterra ... all right around the same it seems, or within a few mpgs anyway.

 

[docwatson]

Seems like most R51 owners use the Airlift air bags if they tow. The advantage to IRS (do those exist?) and air bags is the lack of downward articulation doesn't displace the airbags making for easier use. As skibum said the VK56 equipped Pathfinders have the M205/R230 combo which are both hefty differentials. The downside is the 2.91 gear ratio which can be changed but is just a little tall IMO. Rugged Rocks is working on getting a 3.36 and down ARB locker, making a f/r locked R51 Pathy that much closer.

 

[docwatson]

Update

So to update those interested.

Yesterday I called a Nissan dealership in WA to confirm cross compability of the C200K and R200 carrier (or case - differential as Nissan calls it). Good news, some of the parts are manufactured under identical part numbers which only further solidfies the RD196 for use in the R200.

C200k vs R200
Ring and Pinion: Identical
Axle Shaft Diameter: Identical
Axle Spline Count: Identical
Carrier: Same part number (01/05-09/05 and 07/08-08/09)

With this much similiarity I would be very, very surprised if the C200k ARB doesn't fit the R200. Unless someone else tries it first, I will let you know after I buy a R51 in February of 2016.

 

[skibum315]

Very cool