Skid Plate compatibility?

[Science Abuse]

There seems to be a pretty big market for Xterra's and Frontiers. The ladder frame and drivetrain are the same as our, minus the IRS.

Will Xterra/Frontier skid plates fit the R51? How about Pre-Runner front bumpers?

[smj999smj]

The nose/bumpers on the 08-and-later Pathfinders are different than the Frontiers/Xterras, so I wouldn't expect the front bumper to fit. In 08, to accommodate the V8 option, Nissan extended the nose out 3", which gives it a different rake that the pre-08 Pathys and Frontiers/Xterras.

[Science Abuse]

Nuts! I suppose this has a negative effect on approach angles, too? That's a pretty big engineering move just to accommodate an engine option that they made so few of.

Very good info, smj, thanks!

[smj999smj]

Basically, just the front bumper, grille, headlights and fenders. I don't think the approach angle changed much.

[Science Abuse]

Oh so it's just the facia and bumper supports? The plastic stuff, plus fenders? I was thinking the radiator support structure had moved.

[docwatson]

Your best bet would be to contact someone like ARB who makes bumpers for both. The model year breaks are pretty similar on their bumpers so I suspect they are cosmetic changes.

My suspicion is that most things that fit the X/Fronty will fit the Pathy with minor tweaking. Just an educated guess though. I don't have facts to back that up.

[Science Abuse]

I'll see what I can do about being a Guinea Pig.

Skid Plate may have just become moot, though. I found that I've got enough material from my Subaru's skid plate to cover both my engine and transmission.

1/4" thick 7075 aluminum. A 24" x 12" unsupported span took the Outbacks weight without deflecting. A 4"x8" sample piece barely took a set after being set on blocks and driven over by a 12,000lb forklift. 6061-T6 doesn't come close to that strength, if you can find a deal on this alloy, buy as much as you can!

[Science Abuse]

Got the first plate cut and fit. 56,000psi yield on the material, I should be able to put a rock on my jack and use this plate to lift the nose.



I'll make a turtle shell for the diff, next.