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Help with 2001 Pathfinder handling

772 views 3 replies 2 participants last post by  smj999smj 
#1 ·
Noob here,

I am sure many similar issues have been posted on this, and I have read many of them. But looking for the next steps to get my 01 4x4 to handle better, starting with easiest and least expensive. 120k miles, no towing, no offroad. I am pretty sure I can give up some cushion for better handling.

Here is what I have done so far....

Shocks and struts, KYB Excel from Checker, 2014
Front sway bar bushings, oem rubber 2016
Rear upper and lower links, oem rubber 2016

So my questions are...

1. Replace front and rear sway bar bushings with polyurethane, will this even be noticeable?
2. Replace shocks and struts with something like Rancho rs5000 from Checker, anyone tried these, are they that much stiffer than oem equivalents?
3. Replace only rear shocks with the Ranchos.

Thanks in advance.

Lee
 
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#2 ·
The KYB Excels are pretty much the same as the original equipment struts and shocks (KYB makes the OE units). If they are only 2 years old, they should be fine. When they are due for replacements, consider KYB Gas-a-justs or see if Bilstein HD's are available. I'd pass on the Ranchos and poly sway bar bushings.
The biggest issue with the R50's are the bushings in the upper and lower, rear suspension links. When they start to get worn, dry rotted and split, they cause the rear end of the vehicle to wander all over the highway. Jack up your rear and let the suspension hang; look for splits and cracks in the bushings. If they exist or if you have experienced the rear end wander like I described, replace the four link assemblies. You can get complete links made by Dorman with a lifetime warranty from Rockauto.com (they are usually listed under "control arms").
The type of tires you have and wheel alignment will make a big difference, as well.
 
#3 ·
smj, yes I have replaced the rear links already. And just put tires on 6 months ago, Michelin Latitude, I think. And had alignment done as well.

The pathfinder does not necessarily handle or sway real bad, I just wanted to make it better, like my 2005 frontier 2wd.
 
#4 · (Edited)
It'll never handle as good as your 2005 Frontier...or, even a 2005 Pathfinder. Apples and oranges. Even when the R50's were brand new, they were never really a great handling vehicle; they were just "okay." It's sounds like you are doing what you can do. Airlift 1000 air bags may help some; not so much on the handling (unless you tow), but with ride, especially on rough roads and over big potholes.
 
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