updated : added this to another older thread with no response. deleting that post to create new thread. I will add part numbers / links & results/pics for other as this progresses.

Hello fellow Pathfinders. I have a 2011 PF LE w/ 130K... excellent condition overall, clean under/frame. Added Airbag 1000s a few years back to help level when carrying motorcycle on hitch. The left rear shock leaking! So this is my trigger to refresh the suspension as I plan to keep this truck for occasional trips. Looking to replace all shocks and improve the suspension while checking / replacing known bushings (e.g. sway bar ends). Running the stock size tires (AT Coopers) on the 18" rims.

I don't want to lift the suspension (at all or significantly) to avoid degradation in gas mileage or handling. I especially want to avoid any alignment issues. In other words, "first do no harm!"

Once or twice a year I load up my enduro motorcycle on a hitch carrier. Total weight is probably 450 lbs. (rack and bike) but it extends out a good 18-24" so the lever effect must increase tongue weight. I've done this at least a half dozen times. I think the tongue weight limit on the PF is about 600lbs (towing capacity divide by 10 - thumb rule). So this is near max out.

At this forum's suggestion I've added Airbag 1000s. They help level when loaded. it out but I'm thinking

1. Moog rear Springs
2. Bilstein shocks and struts (should I do front coil overs or just shocks)
3. Sway bar fittings
4. What else should I check/replace while under the car?

What am I missing ? If I get the Moogs, do I still need the Air lift bags? And will this change ride height to the point where it will mess up alignment / handling?

I'll be looking for someone to do most of this work for me as I don't have a good setup.

Thanks all! Let me know if you're still around and willing to weigh in on this project. I plan to keep this truck for another 10 years +

1.Looks like you haven't gotten any feedback so here is some. The stock springs in the rear are weak and wear out because of it, lots of bump stop contact. I would get replacement springs that are aftermarket. Plenty of folks here like the moogs as a replacement. If you want stock height I would suggest that a reasonable way to go. I have a lift on mine with aftermarket shocks and springs all around so I cannot speak personally to the moogs but like I said plenty of other folks are happy with them.

2. Billsteins have a solid reputation and a reasonable price. I would suggest that is a good option. I would stay away from standard shop brands like Monroe and KYB - IMHO these are largely trash. Your front springs may be okay, but if its not a large added burden I would consider replacing. You could look in the front where your bumpstops would make contact. If the area is shiny/clean vs the other parts your making fairly regular bump stock contact and the springs are probably worn out - if you are a very gentle driver you may not see this sign. You may want to get preassembled. Also, plenty of people suggest rancho and then they seem to return to complain that they are blown out at 40k. So, I would personally avoid these. I personally would prefer to get the same brand front and rear just so that they are more closely matched but thats just me.

3. If they are worn/dry/cracking/torn then yes but it is a different job from the shocks and struts and can be done anytime.

4. If you are doing the springs in the rear I would suggest it may be a good idea to buy new spring seats. Likewise, if you are doing new struts and springs in the fronts I would suggest new rubber and seats.

Regardless you will need an alignment when you are finished. The new shocks will be taller (because they are not old and worn out) which will effect the geometry. But you shouldn't need any special parts to get a proper alignment.

All that being said if someone else is going to do the work for you, your going to be at the mercy of what they have available. I would find out what the options are and go from there. You may need to find a place that will install your preferred parts (e.g., Billstein). Most shops don't want you to bring your own parts in for them to install because people often get the wrong parts and because the margin on parts is part of how they keep the lights on and everyone paid.

Thank you Crow Flies - yes I was really hoping to get some input. I have ordered the Moog springs (~ $100) and a full set of Bilstein's with front coil overs (~ $625). Links below:

Will look for the other parts you mentioned (thanks - this is what I wanted to avoid - missing the one thing you need when its on the lift at a friend's garage. My regular mechanic suggested some of the other brands - I told him I wanted to research - either they'll install my parts or I'll find time to bug my friend (like everyone else!)
* rear spring seats
* front new rubber and seats
* I think someone suggested getting new bolts too - probably on a you tube vid.

I'll probably still get the sway bar bushings. Oil and trans fluid change (did trans and diffs when I bought it about 3-4 years ago)


Bilstein 4600 Shocks/coilover set
https://www.suspensionlifts.com/shop/ni ... athfinder/

Moog heavy stock height rear springs
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Moog-81119-C ... 64c3c5dd77

All right! Got front and back shocks and coil-overs (Bilestein)done. Plus away bar links and bushings and stiffer springs (Moog)

Was very clean. Rear swaybar links a pain to get out. Front was easy comparatively. Trans flush and oil - probably 5-6 hours with expert help. Not easy but would have been hard without a good friend helping!