Just starting out, shocking question... KYB MonoMax Rear?

[Shortbutfunky]

Hello,
I'm FNG here and have some questions. I'm willing to go do my homework but I'd appreciate some advice or point me in the right direction help.

I have a 2004 Nissan Xterra SE 2WD V6

The issue is two layers deep really

One - Why is there no KYB MonoMax listed for my rear suspension? I want to replace the shocks in the front and rear they are old and worn. I like the KYB MonoMax but can only find the fronts listed on the KYB website. For my make and model it suggest the Gas-A-Just model for the rear and the MonoMax is not listed as an option for the rear, only the front. Is this possibly because there isn't sufficient height to accommodate this shock? If so would a solution be to put a 2" shackle on each side be sufficient?

Two - The front end is loosey goosey in the grooves on the freeway up here at speed. I'm thinking this is worn front end parts; ball joints, bushings, tie rod ends, etc. Knowing that I want to do a 4" suspension lift eventually are there any parts I could change now while repairing the front end that will help me on that path or just better to wait and do control arms and everything in one shot?

I'm going to get under the rig and check the condition of the bushings and shocks visually this weekend so I'll know more. Thanks for the advice in advance.

Will trade Xterra Mod knowledge for CB knowledge...or Unicorn Tacos.

 

[TerryD]

I'm not familiar with the 1st Gen stuff but occasionally, if you look up the part numbers it comes down to a mounting style difference. Hopefully someone here can give you advice on that.

Most people prefer the Bilstein shocks though. I ran the 4600s on my 2nd Gen rear for a while and have them all around on my GMC K2500. I think there are a few companies that sell full sets of the 5100 series for the 1st Gen trucks.

 

[Prime]

Your wobbly steering is most likely due to worn out steering components. The Idler arm (on the passenger side) is usually the first thing to go. Depending on mileage, you might look into replacing the centerlink and tie rod ends as well. These trucks have old school truck suspension. And there's 6 ball joints in play on the front end. Two outer tie rod ends and 4 (two at either end) on the centerlink.

Regarding your other question, skip the KYBs. Get Bilsteins. Either 4600s for a street driven truck or 5100s if you go off road. They're just better than anything KYB makes.