I hope I'm posting this in the right place. If not, please inform and I'll burn my computer along with my Nissan truck. But I'll post pics, so maybe you'll have me back?

I actually don't have an Xterra yet. I have owned 2 2wd Nissan trucks in the past and both were tough as I want to be when I grow up. Currently I need a reliable 4wd that gets me here to there, and an Xterra seems to fit the need. I intend to add lockers and a small lift kit, or simply cut out the fenders to add 33" tires. I don't do extreme offroading yet, have done in the past, but I now want a nicer truck with good off road ability and a decent ride, a little luxury, and cold A/C, that will also pull a small trailer with my dirt bike and camping gear inside. I will do the relatively easy 4x4 trails with my Xterra until I add lockers and whatever is recommended on this site. Currently I have an 89 Isuzu Trooper, basic model that gets it done, but lacks power, any amenities, and seems to have 99 horsepower on a good day. I intend to add low gears and lockers to the straight axel Isuzu and beat it without mercy, while using the Xterra for daily driving and off roading when I need to drive a distance to the trails.

Are there any models to shy away from? Best models to look for? Simple recommended mods? Common parts that break and should be bought and carried as spares in the truck?

I live in the Arkansas Ouachita mountains, drive here and in the Ozarks which are both tough areas on trucks. Currently my Xterra usage will be 90% on road, but over time I intend to do more extreme 4x4 with the Xterra, not worrying about scratches, bumps, bruises, and appearance.

Put simply, I'll be using the Xterra mostly on road, then over time turning it into a 50/50 offroader.

Any advice will be appreciated, Jeff.