BillySpivitz's X

BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
Username: BillySpivitz


XTERRA-SELFIE-MAY19-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Make: NISSAN
Year: 2010
Model: Xterra
Trim: X
Color: Brick Red




New-to-me: feb12

[COMPLETED MODS]

POWERTRAIN & DRIVELINE
ARB REAR LOCKER FOR M226 (from Rugged Rocks) - installed may16
ARB ON-BOARD HIGH PERFORMANCE 12 VOLT AIR COMPRESSOR- installed apr16
EXEDY NSK1006 - OEM REPLACEMENT CLUTCH KIT- installed jun16
LUK DMF098 - OEM REPLACEMENT DUAL MASS FLYWHEEL- installed jun16
REAR DIFF BREATHER KIT(from Offroad Gorilla)- installed mar18


SUSPENSION & STEERING
REMOVED REAR SWAY BAR - removed jun14
NISSTEC ADJUSTABLE REAR SHACKLES, AT 1.5" (from NissTec) - installed may16
BILSTEIN 5125 SERIES 33-186542 REAR SHOCKS (from NissTec) - installed may16
NISSTEC REAR BUMPSTOP EXTENSION (from NissTec) - installed may16
REMOVED FRONT SWAY BAR - removed apr17
SPC UPPER CONTROL ARMS (from NissTec) - installed apr17
RADFLO EXTENDED TRAVEL ADJUSTABLE COILOVERS W/ 600# SPRINGS (from NissTec) - installed apr17
ALCAN LEAF SPRINGS, 3"/450# OVER STOCK (from NissTec) - installed apr18


BRAKES, TIRES & WHEELS
COOPER DISCOVERER STT PRO 285/75/16 TIRES - installed jun18
LEVEL 8 MK6 WHEELS - GUNMETAL (16X8 6-114.30 0 GYMTXX) - installed jun18
REAR EXTENDED BRAIDED STAINLESS BRAKE LINES (from NissTec) - installed may16


ARMOR & RECOVERY
OEM FRONT TOW HOOK (from ??? - NORAC member) - installed jun14
HEFTYFABWORKS SLIDERS W/ STEP (from jcassidy3982) - installed jun14
ROCKYMTNX REAR RECOVERY BRACKETS (from RockyMtnX) - removed oct18
INSAIN FAB SHOCK SKIDS (from Nisstec) - installed may16
HI-LIFT HL485 48" RED ALL-CAST JACK
MAXGEAR DROP-IN ROOF RACK (from maXTERRA) - installed jun16
HEFTY FABWORKS STEEL SKID PLATES (ENGINE/TRANSMISSION/TRANSFER CASE/GAS TANK) (from Hefty Fabworks) - installed may18
MAXGEAR REAR BUMPER W/ TIRE CARRIER (from MaXterra) - installed oct18
HEFTY FABWORKS ALUMINUM FRONT BUMPER (from Hefty Fabworks) - installed jan19


ELECTRONICS
COBRA 19 DX IV CB RADIO - installed apr16
GOPRO HERO
JVC KW-M730BT DOUBLE-DIN 6.8" TOUCHSCREEN DIGITAL MEDIA RECEIVER - installed mar18
AUTO-VOX CAM1 HD REAR VIEW BACKUP CAMERA - installed mar18
BLUE SEA 5026 AUX FUSE BLOCK w/ BLUE SEA 285-SERIES 100 AMP CIRCUIT BREAKER - installed apr18


INTERIOR
OEM CEILING REAR CARGO AREA HOOKS (from Ramness) - installed jul16
BOAT BUCKLE® RODBUNK DELUXE ROD CARRIER (from Cabela's) - installed jul16
RAINGLER RIXN CEILING STORAGE SHELF NET - MESH/WEBBING HYBIRD (from Raingler) - installed mar18
RAINGLER REAR UPPER BARRIER DIVIDER NET (from Raingler) - installed oct18


[ON DECK / WAITING TO BE INSTALLED]

[WISH LIST]

REGEAR TO 4.56
FRONT LOCKER


[PHOTOS]

STOCK:

XTERRA-SELFIE-STOCK
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

AFTER PUTTING ON SLIDERS:

XTERRA-SELFIE-JUNE14-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

AFTER 33" ST/MAXX's:

XTERRA-SELFIE-JUNE14-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

AFTER 2" LIFT (SPACERS & AAL):

XTERRA--SELFIE-JUNE14-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

AFTER EXTENDED BILSTEINS AND SHACKLES IN REAR:

XTERRA-SELFIE-MAY16-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

AFTER 3" LIFT IN FRONT (SPC UCA's & EXTENDED RADFLOS W/ 600# COILS):

XTERRA-SELFIE-MAR17-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

AFTER ALCANS, RIMS, TIRES:

XTERRA--SELFIE-JUNE18-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

AS SHE SITS NOW - AFTER FRONT BUMPER, REAR BUMPER, WINCH:

XTERRA-SELFIE-MAY19-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JUNE 2014

Yeah, I know, nothing exciting or groundbreaking.

Finally got around to removing the rear sway bar. A couple days worth of PB Blaster after hitting the areas with a torch (thanks N.Y.X., great idea), and it came off relatively easy.


XTERRA-SWAYBAR-01 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JUNE 2014

My brother-in-law owns his own shop, and I cashed in my xmas present of him providing free labor/tools/lift to help me install the Nisstec Spacer/AAL kit.

As I'm sure everyone knows, was pretty easy going. Having the truck off the ground was fantastic (I feel a little guilty now. . .).

In addition to adding the 33" tires, I've gained about 3.25 inches of lift - not bad. This is somewhat of a short-term mod, as I am looking at installing the Nisstec Ultimate Extended lift kit down the road a bit. But this gains me much needed clearance for this season and probably next.


XTERRA-SPACERSAAL-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-SPACERSAAL-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-SPACERSAAL-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-SPACERSAAL-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-SPACERSAAL-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-SPACERSAAL-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-SPACERSAAL-07
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JUNE 2014

Got around to installing the rear recovery brackets I bought off of RockyMtnX.

Received these in the mail - man are they nice and heavy.

Used a sander to prep the brackets for self-etching primer. Applied a few coats of Rustoleum Textured Black, and finished with a few coats of clear matte.


XTERRA-REARRECOVER-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARRECOVER-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARRECOVER-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARRECOVER-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Installation was pretty easy - wasn't the cleanest cutting the slots in the bumper, but it will do. Slapped on a couple of D-Rings and that's that.


XTERRA-REARRECOVER-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
With the generous help from H.I. McDonnough, installed the ARB Air Locker in the M226. Installation was pretty straight forward. Instead of shims like the C200k, the M226 uses bearing adjuster nuts to set the proper backlash and bearing preload. The adjuster nuts required a special tool that you inserted through the axle housing (third picture down), that thankfully after reading through the FSM we became aware of (without it we would have been SOL).

We got pretty close with the backlash and a bit light on the preload. Noticed some faint whine at about 45 mph, so a few weeks later we tightened up both the backlash and the preload. Ran it through GoneMoab and did not have any noise or issues.


XTERRA-ARBREAR-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ARBREAR-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ARBREAR-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ARBREAR-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ARBREAR-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ARBREAR-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ARBREAR-07
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Installed the compressor on the fuse box under the hood, and wired up the switches in the center blanks. 1 spot reserved for a future front locker.


XTERRA-COMPRESSOR-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-COMPRESSOR-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-COMPRESSOR-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-COMPRESSOR-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JUNE 2016

Wanted to get a bit more travel and lift in the rear - bought adjustable shackles and extended length bilsteins from Nisstec, as well as extended brake lines and bump stops.

Getting the stock shackles off was pretty easy - getting the new adjustable ones on required me to push the leaf spring down with the stock jack (saw a suggestion somewhere on the forum - worked pretty well).


XTERRA-REARSUSP-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARSUSP-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARSUSP-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Next, installed the shocks, along with Insain Fab shock skids. Last were the bump stops and brake lines. Bled the brakes and was good to go.


XTERRA-SHOCKS-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-BRAKES-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-SHOCKS-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-SHOCKS-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JUNE 2016

I noticed some slight slippage in the clutch during GoneMoab '16, and the weeks following it got worse. I finally had trouble starting from a stop at stoplights in 1st gear, and had to search for a clutch replacement. Debated back and forth on whether to go OEM or with something like JWT or Centerforce, but settled on OEM (this time around. . .). Replaced the clutch with the Exedy NSK1006 and the flywheel with the Luk DMF098


XTERRA-CLUTCH-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-CLUTCH-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JUNE 2016

I came home with an awesome raffle prize from GoneMoab '16 - a MaxGear Drop-in Roof Rack. Installation was a breeze. I'll take the time to give a shoutout to Dave (aka maXTERRA) - in my excitement to install the rack, I hastily skimmed the install instructions and drilled 4 holes per roof rack support for the drop-in to bolt to - before realizing that the instructions said to only drill 3 per side. So I was 2 sets of bolts/nuts/washers short. I shot Dave a quick email to see if he could give me the part #'s so I could buy from McMaster Carr - instead he asked for my address and mailed me the additional fasteners, even after I tried to turn him down. Great guy, great product quality.


XTERRA-ROOFRACK-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ROOFRACK-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ROOFRACK-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ROORRACK-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JULY 2016

As I have the lowly 'X' trim, I was missing the rear ceiling cargo hooks. So decided to hit up Ramness as he had listed a set recently for sale.


XTERRA-CARGOHOOKS-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

I skimmed through a few how-to threads and tackled this during one afternoon. I probably could have been a bit more diligent in measuring to located where to cut the roof liner for the hooks to slip through, as I cut a bit too much on one of them, but you can't really see it unless you take the time to look.


XTERRA-CARGOHOOKS-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

I had also bought a fishing rod holder from Cabella's for a quick and cheap solution to transporting rods. The strap holder came with a pair of mounting D-ring clips - I ended up using a dremel to hollow out an area within the mounting of the rear ceiling assist handles - the D-ring clips fit nicely inside and allowed the handle to fold down to be virtually invisible when not attached. Overall the rod strap holder works great.


XTERRA-FISHROD-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-FISHROD-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-FISHROD-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-FISHROD-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-FISHROD-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
MARCH 2017

Along with the roof rack won at GoneMoab, I also came home with an Engo winch. After debating for awhile, I decided my immediate priorities for the truck needed to be upgraded suspension, and a winch and bumper would come a bit further down the line. So ended up swapping the winch with Nisstec for a pair of SPC UCA's. A bit later, took advantage of a sale and bought a pair of Extended Travel Radflo's w/ 600# springs.


XTERRA-RADFLOS-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-RADFLOS-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Removal and Install went relatively smoothly (I tested out using the 50/50 ATF/Acetone substitute for PB Blaster/Liquid Wrench, and I have to say, I am impressed), other than a bit if finagling needed for some rounded nuts on the passenger side upper shock mounts.


XTERRA-RADFLOS-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-RADFLOS-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-RADFLOS-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-RADFLOS-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-RADFLOS-07
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-RADFLOS-08
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Ride quality, although stiff a bit stiff since I don't have any additional weight up front yet, is vastly improved over the spacer setup. If anything, it exposes how bad my rear leaf springs are (Alcans are on the horizon. . .).

In a few weeks I will probably dial the coilovers down 1/4" as I am a bit over 3" at the moment.
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JUNE 2017

REAR HATCH STRUTS

Did this mod today - way overdue.

Swap was a piece of cake - 5 minutes tops.

Went with the 175# struts, as the hatch has been struggling to stay open in the winter here in Colorado.

Definitely takes a bit more effort to close than before, but manageable with one hand still.

Before:


XTERRA-HATCHROD-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

After:


XTERRA-HATCHROD-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-HATCHROD-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-HATCHROD-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JULY 2017

HOOD STRUTS

Decided to move on to the front and add hood struts.

Installation was easy - literally a 5 minute install. Did it myself, thought I might need someone to hold the hood up but it was balanced pretty good and I was able to install the upper bracket with ease.

This is a great mod - I highly recommend it. It is great undoing the hood latch and it just raises up. Putting the hood back down is simple as well - these hood struts are valved pretty spot on.


XTERRA-HOODROD-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-HOODROD-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-HOODROD-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
SEPTEMBER 2017

Recently bought an ARB Awning and side wind break from AutoAnything.com during a flash sale.

Did a quick search on the site for mounting options, and came across suggestions for a simple L bracket, but after measuring, realized that these would position the awning too low and interfere with the rear door.

So, back to google search, and came across a post by user brett , who had a MaxGear roof rack as well, on how he fabbed some brackets out of aluminum T-bar.

Bought some aluminum t-bar off the interwebs, and stainless steel hardware from True Value. Threw the t-bar onto the drill press, and a few minutes later had the brackets ready to mount.


XTERRA-AWNING-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-AWNING-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

There is a gap where the roof rack overhangs the stock rails - was a bit tight but was able to attach the brackets with some bolts, and then attach the awning to the brackets.


XTERRA-AWNING-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Overall, looks pretty good, looking forward to trying it out camping and seeing how it works for put up and take down and in the rain.


XTERRA-AWNING-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-AWNING-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-AWNING-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-AWNING-07
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-AWNING-08
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
MARCH 2018

Finally got around to doing this mod - honestly just pretty lazy about it or kept forgetting about it.

I knew I could source everything myself, but decided to go through Offroad Gorilla for their Rear Axle Differential Breather Vent Kit.

As others have said in many, many, many different threads - pretty straightforward - probably total of about 15-20 minutes, most of that was me being picky about where to route the hose.

Popped the breather nipple into the freezer for an hour - seemed to make it thread in a bit easier.


XTERRA-DIFFBREATHER-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-DIFFBREATHER-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-DIFFBREATHER-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-DIFFBREATHER-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
APRIL 2018

Recently replaced my aftermarket receiver with a new touchscreen receiver that works with Apple Carplay/Android Auto. Pretty happy with the Apple Carplay setup/usability - not a full-blown nav system but the maps/navigation is pretty nice. Siri works pretty good as well.


XTERRA-STEREO-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-STEREO-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Added a USB and AUX-In port to the lower instrument panel above the DC plug (this can be used for Android Auto connection), and another USB port in the center console compartment (used for Apple Carplay or Android Auto connection).


XTERRA-STEREO-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-STEREO-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Located the GPS antenna where I believe the XM/Sirius antenna would go (center of dash at windshield). Simply popped off the cover and cut a notch for the cable).


XTERRA-STEREO-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Also installed new speakers all around, as one of my dash tweeters and one of the front 6x9's was blown. Man, those stock speakers for the non-RF system are bad. . .


XTERRA-STEREO-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-STEREO-07
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-STEREO-09
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-STEREO-08
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-STEREO-10
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Wrapped it up with installing a rear backup camera above the license plate - nice addition.
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
APRIL 2018

Should have done this a long time ago, before adding the CB and the ARB compressor. Will be wiring the powered sub and speaker amplifier to this, and re-wiring the CB and compressor to this as well.

Installed a Blue Sea #5026 12 Circuit Fuse Box along the driver's side kick panel. Attached with Scotch Heavy-Duty Velcro Strips per Surf and Snow's build thread post.

Used 4 Gauge welding cable and lug connectors from Temco, crimped with Temco's 5 Ton hydraulic crimper.

Used Blue Sea's 285 Series 100amp circuit breaker.

Will also be modifying this to have 6 constant and 6 ignition switched circuits - per Offroad Gorilla's thread - just waiting on a few wires and connectors to be delivered.

Also replaced the battery terminal connectors with brass connectors.


XTERRA-BLUESEA-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-BLUESEA-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-BLUESEA-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-BLUESEA-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
APRIL 2018

Installed the Alcans today. Went pretty smoothly. The center pins I ordered were delayed in shipping, so didn't have long enough pins for the 3 degree shim. Installed without them, not really getting any vibes, maybe a slight vibe between 30-31mph, but tough to tell if its that or my tires. I am going to measure the drive shaft and pinion angles to see where it sits. If anything, I will just get new ubolts and put the shims in. **Update 04/22/18: I did end up getting vibrations; put the 3 degree shims in today as well as new u-bolts, took a drive around the neighborhood, and the vibes are all gone.**

Overall, I'm happy with the rake and the ride. Expect it to settle a bit, especially after I get the tire carrier rear bumper on there.

Already had a u-bolt flip kit from Nisstec, but I think when I bought it they didn't have the bottom bash plate yet. Ordered a bash plate from PRG and put those on as well.


XTERRA-ALCANS-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ALCANS-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ALCANS-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ALCANS-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-ALCANS-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JUNE 2018

HEFTY SKIDS

Put these on right before goneMOAB '18 (the night before leaving, actually).

Put the truck up on ramps under the front wheels, and used my floor jack to raise the skids into place - helped a lot.

Feel a lot better now having armor under the truck. Didn't really use them much in Moab, but looking forward to hitting some rocks here in the future.


XTERRA-SKIDS-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
OCTOBER 2018

Received my rear bumper from MaxGear a week ago - finally got around to installing it. Was pretty straight forward. Excellent instructions from Dave (aka MaXterra). This is a great bumper. Great construction, shipped/packaged fantastically. Took about 3 hours total - getting the bumper installed went really fast, most of the remaining time was spent on electrical and such.

Went with a custom lighter gray/silver color, will match the front Hefty aluminum bumper to this. Excited.


XTERRA-REARBUMPER-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARBUMPER-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARBUMPER-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARBUMPER-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-REARBUMPER-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
JANUARY 2019

Got the bumper installed today - ran into a few issues so it took me a bit longer than i had planned.

Stock bumper removed:


XTERRA-FRONTBUMPER-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-FRONTBUMPER-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

So, sort of a bonehead move on my part, I removed the tow hook last, and of course one of the weld nuts broke off. It broke off immediately so there wasn't enough room to slip a sawzall blade in there to cut the bolt. After a few minutes scratching my head, I realized that I could see the nut through the front hole. I stuck a long screwdriver in there and wedged it against the nut and the inside of the frame rail. Hot damn it worked, got the bolt out.


XTERRA-FRONTBUMPER-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Did a quick search on the web and hit a few ideas. Ended up grabbing a 1/2" x 7" bolt at Ace - it was a bit long, I agree that a 6.5" length would be great, maybe even a 6" would work.

So back in business. Got the driver side frame mount on and moved on to the passenger side frame mount - and the slots didn't line up with the holes. Comparing both together it looks like the passenger side mount was welded up incorrectly, the bottom plate was too high and it would not let me align with the holes.


XTERRA-FRONTBUMPER-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-FRONTBUMPER-07
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

So decided to enlarge the slot by drilling a series of small holes and then reaming it out with a larger bit. Wasn't pretty but it worked.

Tried using a jack to lift it up, but it was a bit top heavy.


XTERRA-FRONTBUMPER-08
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Luckily my wife was free and I was able to lift it up while she slipped a couple of the bolts to hold it up.

After adjusting the bumper and tightening everything down, went on to install the rad skid. Well, should have known it wouldn't go 100% smoothly. The driver side frame mount was a bit skewed so one of the bolts didn't line up with the frame rail hole. I monkeyed around with it for about an hour, finally was able to slip a pry bar behind the frame mount, and while leaning on it with my chin was able to jimmy the bolt in.

So finished up a couple hours later than I had hoped. But its done. I'm tired.


XTERRA-FRONTBUMPER-09
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-FRONTBUMPER-10
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
FEBRUARY 2019

MARCH 2017

Along with the roof rack won at GoneMoab, I also came home with an Engo winch. After debating for awhile, I decided my immediate priorities for the truck needed to be upgraded suspension, and a winch and bumper would come a bit further down the line. So ended up swapping the winch with Nisstec for a pair of SPC UCA's. A bit later, took advantage of a sale and bought a pair of Extended Travel Radflo's w/ 600# springs.

XTERRA-RADFLOS-01 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

XTERRA-RADFLOS-02 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Removal and Install went relatively smoothly (I tested out using the 50/50 ATF/Acetone substitute for PB Blaster/Liquid Wrench, and I have to say, I am impressed), other than a bit if finagling needed for some rounded nuts on the passenger side upper shock mounts.

XTERRA-RADFLOS-04 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

XTERRA-RADFLOS-03 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

XTERRA-RADFLOS-05 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

XTERRA-RADFLOS-06 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

XTERRA-RADFLOS-07 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

XTERRA-RADFLOS-08 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Ride quality, although stiff a bit stiff since I don't have any additional weight up front yet, is vastly improved over the spacer setup. If anything, it exposes how bad my rear leaf springs are (Alcans are on the horizon. . .).

In a few weeks I will probably dial the coilovers down 1/4" as I am a bit over 3" at the moment.

Circling back to this about 2-1/2 years later - with the recent Hefty front bumper, now can think about a winch. So the winch that I won (but ended up trading for SPC upper control arms) at the GoneMoab '16 was donated by @Offroad Gorilla . So when it was time to look for a winch, I immediately went to their website and bought an Engo SR9S 9,000lb winch w/ synthetic line. It was delivered a few days ago and once things thaw out here I will be installing it. I knew these winches were heavy, but wow, it surprised me picking it up from my front porch and carrying it inside. Will definitely need to adjust the coilovers after installing this.


XTERRA-WINCH-00
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
MAY 2019

Got around to installing the rear Timbern bumpstops today. These were the Active Off-Road model (TABSJRC01).

Ground down the u-bolts a bit as I have the u-bolt flip kit.

Overall pretty easy install. I know some people have said that the center bolt that Timbren includes is too long, as it feels like the bolt is hitting the plate, but by looking at it the bolt was not long enough to contact the plate. It did take a bit of effort to torque it down but got it nice and snug.

Didn't get a chance to drive around to test them out, looking forward to hitting a few spots that I know I bang the old bump stops on.


XTERRA-TIMBRENS-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-TIMBRENS-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
MAY 2019

POWERTANK PART 1

Also got started on the powertank mount today. I have a 15 lb powertank, and liked the mounting location featured in a few forum threads I found.

Today I was just tackling planning out the exact location and trimming the interior panel.

Interior panel removed:


XTERRA-POWERTANK-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Used a carbide-tipped scoring blade to lay out the cuts:


XTERRA-POWERTANK-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-POWERTANK-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-POWERTANK-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Laying out cuts for the cubbie - had to flip to the back to cut:


XTERRA-POWERTANK-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-POWERTANK-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-POWERTANK-07
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Cuts all done:


XTERRA-POWERTANK-08
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-POWERTANK-09
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-POWERTANK-10
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Putting the interior panel back in the X to see how it lines up:


XTERRA-POWERTANK-11
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Approximate location of mount:


XTERRA-POWERTANK-12
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

And how powertank will sit:


XTERRA-POWERTANK-13
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-POWERTANK-14
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Have an 1/8"x9"x9" 6061 aluminum plate on order - all that is left is bolting that up and installing the mount to that.
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
MAY 2019

ENGO WINCH INSTALL

Got around to installing the Engo winch today (well, at least 90% installed).

I knew I was going to have to figure out where to place the solenoid box. There really isn't a good place to put the solenoid from the Engo winch - it's pretty big and awkward. I decided to take a cue from a forum thread and remove the inner guts from the solenoid box and placed them in a Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Container. The container was just deep enough to fit everything in it, and was just the right size to tuck it in the area next to the fog light.

I went about drilling some mounting holes for the container, and also decided to place the winch controller plug next to it as well.


XTERRA-WINCH-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-WINCH-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-WINCH-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

I needed to lengthen the wires to the plug a bit to reach the solenoid.


XTERRA-WINCH-04
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

I drilled some holes in the base of the container for the connector posts, and the large hole allowed great access to the area where the winch is. I added some rubber washers to waterproof it a bit.


XTERRA-WINCH-05
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-WINCH-06
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-WINCH-07
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Clocking the winch. I decided to turn the clutch towards the radiator.


XTERRA-WINCH-08
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Used masking tape to lay out the cut to the grill. I went about 2" from the bottom.


XTERRA-WINCH-09
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

After fitting it up, I think I'll take another 1/2" off - it sits just above the spool and am a bit worried of chafing the line.


XTERRA-WINCH-10
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

All back together.


XTERRA-WINCH-11
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-WINCH-12
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr

Ran out of time (wife wanted to watch GoT). Still need to run the cables to the battery, and put the Factor55 Flatlink on. As well as adjust the coilovers after letting it settle from driving a few days.
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
Started the journey towards a Titan Swap - snagged a M205 off of Bucksnort on TNX and got it delivered yesterday evening. This thing is in pretty good shape - I asked year/mileage, and he said it was essentially brand new, I think it was a rebuilt/reman 2015 diff. It was pretty clean, just needed to clean up some surface rust on the raw steel surfaces.

I'll be piecing together all the other TS parts over the next fall and spring. Will be regearing to 4.56.


XTERRA-M205-01
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-M205-02
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-M205-03
by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 

BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
Installed my XTP Intake Manifold Spacer today. Went pretty smooth. Also decided to replace the spark plugs while I was in there, as well as clean the throttle body - I was having a slight hitch in the lower gears when i shifted, and suspected it was due to bad throttle response. I gotta say, drove it around after, and it feels so much smoother. I know the ECU probably hasn't relearned yet, so won't really comment on any butt dyno results.


XTERRA-IMS by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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BillySpivitz

Bought an X
Location
Denver, CO
Finally replaced the inner/outer tie rods. Found out I had some slop in the driver side at the precheck at gonemoab this year. Had noticed some vibration on highway as well.

All in all this was a pretty straight forward job - took me about 2.5-3 hours, had some trouble getting the tension nut off on both sides as they were pretty corroded. Drove it around the block, got it pretty close to the previous alignment, but it is pulling slightly to the right. Made an appt tomorrow for an alignment so should be all set.

Went with Hitachi inners and outers. Pretty nice quality.


XTERRA-TRE-01 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr


XTERRA-TRE-02 by Billy Spivitz, on Flickr
 
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