JXB Performance Driveshaft Center Support Bearing Carrier Upgrade - VW Mk5 R32, VW Mk6 Golf R, Audi 8P A3

The stock center support bearing carrier holds the driveshaft in place with rubber so thin that only about 20 lbs of force will move it from center to the end of its travel.  While that’s great for making sure no NVH makes it to the cabin, the stock bushing is extremely prone to failure, especially in harsher climates and on higher-powered cars.  Even on the best-kept cars, the stock rubber bushing sags, dry rots, and cracks by the time it’s 10-15 years old.  When the bushing lets go, it leads to excessive vibrations and clunking which can damage the transmission and rear diff.  To make matters worse, the stock carrier is molded onto the center support bearing, leading to costly driveshaft replacement.

The Bushings

Two options are available for the bushings, both of which are many times stiffer than the stock bushings. JXB paid close attention to the NVH levels associated with this upgrade. We’ve engineered custom isolator bushings that separate the carrier from the body of the vehicle and mounting bolts to substantially reduce NVH levels.

The street bushings absorb most of the NVH from the drivetrain. Expect some light NVH at some speeds in the form of a soft hum. With a modified exhaust or windows down you’ll probably never hear it. Most NVH is heard between 20-40 mph. At highway speeds it fades away.

The track bushings are for those who want no-compromise drivetrain performance. These may create a substantial amount of cabin noise throughout the low range, again fading at higher speeds, but not entirely. Not sure which is for you? Try them both, they’re interchangeable!

Fitment/Applications:

• 2008 VW Mk5 R32
• 2012-2013 VW Mk6 Golf R
• 2009-2013 Audi 8P A3 AWD

Installation

Installation doesn’t require removal of the driveshaft. The 2-part design clamps around the OEM bearing. The old carrier must be removed, so a cutting tool is required.