Recommended upgrades for a '98 XE Pathy?

tchjts1 · Aug 28th, 2006, 11:22 AM

Hi. I looked through this forum for posts regarding stereo and suspension upgrades... the search either came up empty or I was overwhelmed with the returns so I will post a few questions here.

I am getting the '98 Pathfinder XE 4Wd today. 3 things I will want to upgrade in the near future and am looking for advice or recommendations on:

1) Stereo and speakers - as it is now, only the left front speaker is working and some of the display functions of the stock head unit are not working. I am going to replace the stereo as well as the speakers. Any advice on what works well for this model vehicle? Mainly looking for speaker advice here.

2) Suspension - I will want to upgrade the suspension before too long. I don't see myself doing much 4-wheeling, but I do like better suspension than stock offers in most of my vehicles. Any setup that works particularly well in this model?

3) Tires - Yeah, I know... everyone will have their own favorites, but again, maybe there is one that works particuarly well for this model. I'd guess my usage will be 90% highway, possibly 10% light off-road.

Thanks -
Jeff

Avus Blur · Aug 28th, 2006, 04:44 PM

I replaced my stereo after my cd changer broke. I wanted to just replace the HU, but because of the Bose system, I had to replace everything. I bought the HU from ebay and the speakers and amp from Circuit City. I kinda went wild since I got 12 month interest free financing. My gf got the sub for my birthday which isnt until Sept, so it wont be installed for a while.

HU

Kenwood DPX-501
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-ShZqYZc...00&I=113DPX501

Front Speakers

Polk 6.5" Components
Buy the Polk 6-1/2" Component Speakers (db6500) and other Car Speakers at circuitcity.com

Rear Speakers

Polk 6.5" 2 ways
Buy the Polk 6-1/2" Speakers (DB650) and other Car Speakers at circuitcity.com

Amp

Kicker 5 channel
Buy the Kicker 5-Channel Amplifier (06ZX7005) and other Car Amplifiers at circuitcity.com

Sub

Infinity Kappa Perfect 12.1
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-ShZqYZc...121&search=sub

I spent quite a bit of money but I think it was worth it. The system is really loud while still being clear. For the types of music I listen to, its perfect.

kstt · Aug 29th, 2006, 08:34 AM

I switched out the factory unit on my '97 XE with a $100 Pioneer CD headunit. I am amazed how good it sounds, with all the factory speakers. Much, much better than the factory unit.

I put Firestone Destination LEs on. Nice ride, nice price, aggressive enough for snow or light off-road.

tchjts1 · Aug 29th, 2006, 09:54 AM

Thanks for the input guys. As soon as I purchased the vehicle, I headed off to Circuit City (before I read these replies) and got the 6 1/2" Polks installed, and a high end Pioneer HU.

I may or may not go with amp'd and subwoofer... I'll see how these are for awhile. Much better than stock was.