Originally Posted By: sdxterror
Hi, I purchased my 2001 Xterra SE used a while back. I'm tired of the harsh and shitty ride that is mostly likely due to the Rancho Lift Kit that was installed on the car from when I purchased it. I was also told by the alignment shop that they could not align my car because the UCAs were maxed out and they couldn't adjust the caster any further. Also, they said the UCA bushings were worn out - I just replaced them about 1.5 years ago - and don't go off-roading so not sure how they could have worn out so quickly. In any case, I'd like to remove the lift kit. I want to replace the UCAs with OEM UCAs. I also want to remove the AAL. Are there any instructions on removing this stuff anywhere? Also, how exactly is the front of the truck lifted? What do I need to remove there? I also plan to replace the Rancho shocks with some Bilstein ones. Anything else that I should be aware of? Will aftermarket stock UCAs work? I found these on Ebay but am not sure of the quality: http://www.ebay.com/itm/XTERRA-FRONTIER-UPPER-LEFT-CONTROL-ARM-BALL-JOINT-00-04-/290928995142?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Year%3A2001%7CMake%3ANissan%7CModel%3AXterra&hash=item43bcb82b46&vxp=mtr


Your best bet is to pretend its stock, get the 3" SL kit at 4x4parts.com, and install it.

You'll be removing the broken/worn out Rancho crap and replacing it with the kit parts, curing the problem.

Its POSSIBLE btw, that the Rancho SHOCKS are OK, and that you just need to replace the UCA that they supply that doesn't have enough adjustment, with the AC UCA which does allow enough adjustment, and the STIFF single leaf AAL, with a flexier 3 leaf AAL + a longer shackle to allow some swing/ride compliance, etc.

The Bils ARE better shocks, but, the harshness on the Rancho kit is not typically the shocks fault unless you are off roading/going over rough enough terrain....its typically those other parts at fault.

IE: It might save you some $ if the shocks are OK after all that other stuff is replaced.

If you just want a clean slate, sure, get the Bils, the Articulator kit is pretty sweet btw.

Its my personal fav out of the ones they offer.

laugh
_________________________
- TJ

2001 Xterra '03 VG33, SE 5 spd, 305/70/16's, Revolvers, UBSkidderz, Doubled AAL's, 3"SL/2"BL, winch/bumpers, skids, sliders, OBA, Snorkel, pine stripes....

Friends don't let friends drive stock.

http://www.gifsoup.com/view/501230/tj-tackling-crawlers-ridge-o.gif