Hi guys!
I'm about to own a second hand 98' Nissan Frontier and I just can't wait to drive it already.
Unfortunately, it is has an automatic transmission. Does anyone here knows how much it would cost me if I am going to convert it into a manual Nissan Transmission?
Moreover, the tailgate of the Frontier is in bad condition due to corrosion and stuff, I was wondering if I should I get a new Nissan Tailgate Handle or should I let it be? Is it that really important?
Also, I'm very curious if anyone knows the truth behind Nissan Throttle Body Spacers claim in increasing horsepower, enhancing torque and better fuel economy? Has anyone tried to modify their engines with this kind of car part?
Kind Regards and Good Times Everyone!
98' Frontier Upgrade
Re: 98' Frontier Upgrade (devindavis)
The transmission question: Check to see if the area above your pedals has the bracket for the clutch pedal on it.
Then you have to get a transmission that bolts up to your engine. Check the serial number on your transmission and your dealer can help you identify which 5 speed you need.
Then you need the clutch master cylinder and the wiring fo the reverse switch so you back up lights work when you use "R".
Tail gates: If it's rusty get rid of it. The corrosion may appear only on the surface but the latex body seals will have been weakened and that usually means the internal panel surfaces are rusty as well. Try and find a used one in better condition if you can. Or get a cargo net (cheaper).
Throttle Body spacers don't do much for direct fuel injection engines like the 98 Frontier. And this is why. The air charge makes it way down the intake system past the intake valve into the cylinder. As it travels the air is already spinning quite fast. The fuel is added to the air charge just above the intake valve. As it passes through the opening intake valve the air fuel mixes in a turbulent mass. Because the fuel is injected above the intake valve there is little benefit from spinning the air when it just piles up against the intake port and valve anyway. IF you had throttle body injection or your ride was carburated...then yes the spacer would work great because it causes a more thorough blending of the air fuel mixture before it gets into the cylinder.These facts are also mentioned in that link you posted. They mention the benefits for carbs and throttle body fuel injection but not direct fuel injection.
This information comes from 2 separate speed shops I have talked to about this. They both stated similar stories but also told me they would be happy to take my money and sell me the part, but that I would notice little improvement.
CONCLUSIONSInvest in a decent cold air intake and exhaust system. Get the engine breathing better and you will see some real gains. You can also get smaller pulleys that free up horsepower on the engine but your alternator, water pump, power steering and A/C will be less efficient.
You can also change out the clutch fan with an electric fan. This lets the engine spin a bit easier and gives you better off the line and passing performace. Just think how much that clutch fan weighs.
Then you have to get a transmission that bolts up to your engine. Check the serial number on your transmission and your dealer can help you identify which 5 speed you need.
Then you need the clutch master cylinder and the wiring fo the reverse switch so you back up lights work when you use "R".
Tail gates: If it's rusty get rid of it. The corrosion may appear only on the surface but the latex body seals will have been weakened and that usually means the internal panel surfaces are rusty as well. Try and find a used one in better condition if you can. Or get a cargo net (cheaper).
Throttle Body spacers don't do much for direct fuel injection engines like the 98 Frontier. And this is why. The air charge makes it way down the intake system past the intake valve into the cylinder. As it travels the air is already spinning quite fast. The fuel is added to the air charge just above the intake valve. As it passes through the opening intake valve the air fuel mixes in a turbulent mass. Because the fuel is injected above the intake valve there is little benefit from spinning the air when it just piles up against the intake port and valve anyway. IF you had throttle body injection or your ride was carburated...then yes the spacer would work great because it causes a more thorough blending of the air fuel mixture before it gets into the cylinder.These facts are also mentioned in that link you posted. They mention the benefits for carbs and throttle body fuel injection but not direct fuel injection.
This information comes from 2 separate speed shops I have talked to about this. They both stated similar stories but also told me they would be happy to take my money and sell me the part, but that I would notice little improvement.
CONCLUSIONSInvest in a decent cold air intake and exhaust system. Get the engine breathing better and you will see some real gains. You can also get smaller pulleys that free up horsepower on the engine but your alternator, water pump, power steering and A/C will be less efficient.
You can also change out the clutch fan with an electric fan. This lets the engine spin a bit easier and gives you better off the line and passing performace. Just think how much that clutch fan weighs.