The Nissan GT-R VR38DETT: Unlocking Track-Grade Handling

The Nissan GT-R R35 with its VR38DETT engine is already a formidable machine, but its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, while excellent from the factory, leaves room for improvement when the goal is consistent lap times. The stock suspension is a compromise between ride comfort, daily usability, and performance. On a racetrack, the soft bushings, moderate spring rates, and non-adjustable dampers become limiting factors. Upgrading with performance coilovers, precision bushings, and upgraded stabilizers transforms the R35 into a genuine track tool. This article details the complete handling package—coilovers, bushings, and stabilizers—for the GT-R VR38DETT, along with supporting modifications and setup advice for serious track use.

Why a Dedicated Handling Package for Track Use?

Track driving demands precise control, predictable weight transfer, and maximum tire contact. The stock GT-R suspension does well in many areas, but it suffers from excessive body roll, deflection in the compliance bushings, and under-damped rebound, which can lead to unsettling weight shifts during high-speed corner entry. A tailored handling package addresses these issues by:

  • Reducing body roll through stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, keeping the tires flat on the pavement.
  • Eliminating deflection with solid or polyurethane bushings, preserving precise geometry under load.
  • Allowing fine-tuning of damping and ride height to suit specific tracks and driving styles.
  • Improving steering feedback and driver confidence, enabling faster, repeatable laps.

Upgrading with Coilovers: The Heart of the Handling Package

Coilovers replace the factory struts and springs with a single unit that is height-adjustable and often features adjustable damping. For the GT-R VR38DETT, choosing the right coilover system is critical because the car’s heavy curb weight (~3,800 lbs) and massive power output place high demands on the suspension.

Key Considerations When Selecting Coilovers

  • Spring rates: Track-focused rates usually range from 12 kg/mm front / 14 kg/mm rear up to 16 kg/mm front / 18 kg/mm rear for dedicated track setups. Higher rates reduce body roll and improve response but require proper damping.
  • Damping adjustability: Look for independent compression and rebound adjustment (e.g., KW Variant 3, Ohlins Road & Track). This allows tailoring the suspension to track grip levels and curbing.
  • Ride height adjustment: Separate spring preload and shock body height adjustment (aka true coilover design) prevent losing damper travel when lowering. This is essential for maintaining clearance on bumpy tracks.
  • Build quality and damper technology: Monotube high-pressure gas dampers dissipate heat better than twin-tube designs, crucial for sustained track sessions.

Top Coilover Options for the GT-R R35

  • KW Suspension Variant 3 – A premium choice with stainless steel construction, independent bump and rebound adjustment, and carefully tuned valving for the GT-R. See details on KW's official site.
  • BC Racing BR Series – A more budget-friendly option with 32‑way adjustable damping, height adjustability, and race-proven monotube design. Works well for part-time track cars.
  • Ohlins Road & Track (DFV) – Known for their Dual Flow Valve system, these provide excellent ride quality on the street with race-like performance on track. Ideal for owners who drive to the track.
  • Nitron R3 – A high-end UK brand offering custom spring rates and extensive adjustability, including remote reservoirs for added oil capacity.

Regardless of brand, ensure the coilovers come with top mounts (camber plates) for the front and rear, as these allow alignment adjustments critical for track work.

Performance Bushings: Eliminating Compliance Slop

Factory bushings are made of soft rubber to isolate noise and vibration. Under track loads, this compliance allows the suspension arms to deflect, altering toe, camber, and caster angles mid-corner. Upgrading to polyurethane, spherical bearings, or billet aluminum bushings locks in the suspension geometry, providing consistent handling and improved steering precision.

Key Locations for Bushing Upgrades

  • Front lower control arms (LCA): Compliance at the front LCA bushings leads to unwanted camber loss and vague steering feel. Polyurethane or track‑oriented spherical bearings dramatically improve turn‑in.
  • Rear subframe bushings: The GT-R’s rear subframe can shift under power, causing instability. Solid aluminum or stiff polyurethane subframe bushings (e.g., Whiteline, Hardrace) eliminate this movement, improving traction under acceleration.
  • Rear upper control arms (toe arms): Stock rubber bushings allow toe change under load, which can cause unpredictable handling. Adjustable toe arms with spherical ends allow precise alignment settings and firm location.
  • Rear lower control arms and knuckle bushings: These control camber and track width. Upgraded bushings keep the rear wheels planted during corner exit.
  • Whiteline – Offers comprehensive kits including steering rack bushings, anti-roll bar bushings, and subframe inserts. Their synthetic elastomer is a great balance of stiffness and NVH. Browse Whiteline bushing options.
  • Energy Suspension – Produce high-quality polyurethane bushings for the front and rear, available in various colors. Typically a more affordable option than full spherical.
  • Hardrace – Known for their complete front and rear bushing kits, including control arm, sway bar, and subframe bushings. Provides a near‑solid feel without the cost of full spherical.
  • Spherical bearings (e.g., SPL Parts, Volkswagen Racing) – For the ultimate in precision, some racers replace all rubber and poly with Teflon‑lined spherical bearings. These transmit the most feedback and require maintenance.
Tip: When installing bushing upgrades, consider using a hydraulic press and a shop manual to avoid damaging the control arms. For street/track cars, polyurethane is often the best compromise—spherical bearings can be harsh for daily driving.

Stabilizers (Sway Bars) and Associated Components

Upgraded stabilizers are one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce body roll and improve cornering balance. The GT-R R35 uses a front stabilizer bar connected to the lower control arms and a rear bar attached to the rear knuckle. Larger diameter bars (or hollow bars with greater wall thickness) increase roll resistance, but must be matched with proper spring rates.

Adjustable vs. Fixed Stabilizers

Adjustable sway bars (e.g., Whiteline adjustable bars) provide multiple mounting holes for the end links, allowing the driver to fine‑tune the balance between understeer and oversteer. Fixed bars are simpler but less flexible. For track use, adjustable bars are strongly recommended.

Stock plastic end links and rubber bushings fail under high loads. Upgrade to heavy‑duty forged aluminum or spherical end links along with polyurethane sway bar bushings. This eliminates slop and ensures the stabilizer acts instantly.

Top Stabilizer Options for the GT-R VR38DETT

  • Whiteline Adjustable Sway Bars – Available as a front/rear pair with multiple adjustment positions and high‑quality forging. View Whiteline GT-R sway bars.
  • HKS Sway Bar Set – Lightweight hollow construction with three‑stage adjustability front and rear. Designed specifically for the R35 chassis.
  • Tanabe Sustec Stabilizers – Durable solid bars with a high‑strength finish. Slightly stiffer than stock but still streetable.
  • Swift Sway Bars – Noted for their precise fit and progressive rate design (some models). Used by many professional teams.

Complementary Upgrades for a Complete Track Package

Beyond the core three components, consider these modifications to fully unlock the GT-R’s track potential:

Adjustable Camber Arms and Toe Rods

Coilovers lower the chassis, often causing excessive negative camber that cannot be corrected with factory adjusters. Adjustable front upper control arms and rear camber/toe arms allow you to set alignment for optimal tire wear and cornering grip. Brands like SPL Parts, GodSpeed, and Megan Racing offer quality arms.

Strut Tower Braces and Chassis Reinforcement

While the GT-R’s chassis is stiff, adding front and rear strut braces reduces flex, especially when running high grip tires. The Cusco or Carbing strut braces are popular choices.

Corner Weighting and Professional Alignment

After installing coilovers, bushings, and arms, have the car corner‑weighted on precision scales. A proper corner balance ensures each tire carries its share of weight, maximizing grip. Typical track alignment specs for the R35 are around -2.0° to -2.5° front camber, -1.5° to -1.8° rear camber, and slight toe‑out front / toe‑in rear.

Tire and Wheel Considerations

Upgraded suspension demands high‑performance tires. Use 200‑TW or slick tires (e.g., Yokohama Advan A052, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2) for track days. Wider wheels (10.5″ front, 11″ rear) allow fitment of 295/30R19 or 305/30R19 tires, increasing contact patch.

Installation and Tuning Best Practices

  • Professional installation recommended – Suspension modifications affect safety. A certified shop familiar with the GT-R should perform the work.
  • Allow time for settling – Coilovers may settle slightly after initial miles. Recheck ride height and alignment after 200 street miles.
  • Document settings – Record your damping clicks, ride height, and alignment numbers. Makes it easier to revert or tune later.
  • Test at low speeds first – Before a track day, test the car on an empty road. Feel for odd noises, excessive stiffness, or imbalance.

Maintenance for Longevity

Track use accelerates wear on suspension components. Follow these maintenance tips:

  • Inspect bushings and spherical bearings every 5,000 miles or after 5 track days. Look for cracking, excessive play, or corrosion.
  • Clean and grease polyurethane bushings with silicone‑based grease to prevent squeaking.
  • Check damper oil leaks – If a coilover weeps fluid, rebuild it immediately.
  • Re‑torque all fasteners after the first few sessions – heat and vibration can loosen bolts.

Final Thoughts: Building Your GT-R’s Ultimate Track Setup

Investing in a quality handling package—coilovers, upgraded bushings, and stabilizers—transforms the GT-R VR38DETT from a competent grand tourer into a precise, track‑dominating machine. The combination of adjustable damping, zero‑deflection geometry, and controlled body roll gives the driver the confidence to push harder into corners and accelerate earlier on exit. Remember that the best results come from a thoughtful, integrated approach: choose components that work together, invest in professional alignment, and continually adjust based on track feedback. With this package, your R35 will reward you with faster lap times and a more connected driving experience.