Qx4 (or pathfinder) Modifications

[jet73703]

Ok, so, after searching the internet, i am finding it quite difficult to find any information on or parts to modify a qx4, or even a pathfinder. In specific, my inquiry pertains to my desire to raise my 2003 infiniti qx4 2-4 inches. I would like some info from anyone that has tried this or knows where i can obtain the parts to do this. Lets keep the spending to a minimum, but no sacrificing quality.

My second desired modification is to remove the cats. my question on this is how do i do this without tripping my check engine light. Any resolutions?

[SixGuns]

http://www.rocky-road.comhttp://www.4x4parts.com

Those are the only 2 commercially available lifts for the R50. This SUV lacks aftemarket following, primarily because it's unibody, and in the eyes of some, no good for off-roading, and I doubt Nissan/Infinity had any idea that people would take their vehicles to the extremes some of us here have....Check out the forum though...Fueler posted one about the first documented SAS (solid axle swap) on an R50...Lots of time, money and fabrication involved, though, and I would not recommend it for the beginer. So, that leaves you with the 1/75" and 2" lifts. Other guys have dealt with a custom front subframe drop that resulted in 4-5" of lift, but that has since died by the wayside.....

As far as the cats, computers are imbedded into the engine management system so far these days that it's virtually impossible to remove cats without throwing codes...unless you modify your ECU, just because the O2 sensor behind the cats will get fouled with unburnt fuel and will start giving codes....so, really no way (that I know of....others here may) to ditch the cats without getting your check engine light...nature of the beast.

Welcome to the forum...try the search box in the upper right corner to look into inquiries...there's probably nothing you could have a question for, mechanically that hasn't already been talked about, and you can find your answer much quicker. Enjoy your stay...post up some pics of the Q when you get a chance though, huh?

[jet73703]

hey, thanks for the info!! it is greatly appreciated!so, heres my quandry, if i replace my springs with the 2in lift springs and continue using my current struts (good shape), will ride quality suffer compared to know, and also, since this changes the geometry of the suspension setup, am i putting other components inot a position of being stressed and worn out more quickly to the point i should be dettered from taking this route?

As far as the cats, is there not a way to possibly clamp in a module directly into the harness somewhere to mimic the readings the o2 sensor should send, or override the ecm's parameters...?

And yeah, i just created my log in today, but pics will follow shortly

[mott6904]

There is a way to trick the ecu when removing the cats without using a module. They are called o2 sensore spacers. they remove the sensor from direct flow of exhaust gases. Im making one for my audi as we speak ill post some pics and let you know if it works.

[nissandoms47]

I build the subframe drops and sell them. Message me if you're interested....

[jet73703]

ok, then i will ask this of you.... in your opinion, what would be needed to do a mild 2-4 in lift. extreme off-road prowess is not necessary, but i do not want to sacrifice handling or ride quality or dependability?

[pathfinder9035]

ok, then i will ask this of you.... in your opinion, what would be needed to do a mild 2-4 in lift. extreme off-road prowess is not necessary, but i do not want to sacrifice handling or ride quality or dependability?

ok well all u need is a 2 inch lift from ac...make sure u get all the components required like alignment kit and everything...throw some 31s and u got yourself about 3 to 4 inches of clearance extra compared to stock...i heard that ac spring kits gives the r50 a better ride than stock coils...thats all i can think of . it will all run u about 6-800 dollars not including tires.

[VanIsleDSM]

If you're savvy with electronics it's not too hard to make an oxygen sensor simulator. You might also be able to buy them. Then you just need to plug up the hole in the exhaust.

I honestly don't know much about these specific vehicles yet, I just bought a 2001 qx4 today, but I don't see why it wouldn't work.

[jet73703]

Welcome to qx4 ownership Yeah, i bought mine 6 months ago. Experienced the skipping cd issue yet? lol

[jet73703]

ok, so, moving on...Anyone tried the green high performance air filters? They are supposed to be better than k&n. Also, anyone tried replacing their backing lights on the qx4 with led's? big difference or not worth it?

[SnowSurfLax]

For intake, look here:

http://www.jimwolftechnology.com

As for the LED's, someone on here did (I forget who) and said they could finally see behind them when backing up at night. I plan on doing that myself, one of these days...

For LED's, you can look here:

http://www.superbrightleds.com

GL!

[nissandoms47]

You could get the subframe lift and keep your stock struts and springs and just replace the rear shocks with some longer ones and you would retain your stock handling, ride quality and dependability. This would be a 4" lift.

[jet73703]

ok, 2 questions on that. 1, so would actual suspension travel be the same, just increases ground clearance? and 2, how much you charging for the subframe drops?

[nissandoms47]

I went and emailed you and answered your questions.

[jet73703]

ok, next question everyone, and this one will be totally personal opinion. I am considering putting a brush\grille guard and tail light guards on my q (pearl white with plasma trim). what color do you think would look best. choices being considered are: black, chrome, Brushed (silver), Color matching pearl white (if even possible). thanks

[nissandoms47]

Black, chrome ew and paint matched would look weird in my opinion.

[02SOMWS6]

a 350z has the same engine so you would think that a set of headers and y-pipe would fit then you do your own from the y-pipe back with 02 simulators to trick the ecm

[jet73703]

hmm, that is true.. Elaborate on these "o2 simulators".

[NutsPathfinder]

For intake, look here:

http://www.jimwolftechnology.com

As for the LED's, someone on here did (I forget who) and said they could finally see behind them when backing up at night. I plan on doing that myself, one of these days...

For LED's, you can look here:

http://www.superbrightleds.com

GL!

Whats everyones opinion on the Jimwolf intake compared to the K&N? Also whats the diffrences?

[fueler]

i have the jim wolf intake, its actually not a full intake kit but just a K&N style filter with a velocity stack underneath, designed to incorporate the stock intake tubing and MAF sensor

this is what it looks like with the filter taken off: Ive had a K&N intake in other cars and its usually metal piping with the filter, so they are different (although i couldnt find a K&N kit for my 3.3L engine)