From what I gather, the SE had stiffer springs. Anybody know if they are the same height or if there are any fitament issues installing SE springs into my GXE?

Is the alignment different between the two models?

I know the wheels are a bit bigger on the SE.

Are the struts the same on both models?

Are sway bars the same diameter?

What can I do to my GXE to improve the handling (and keep the price cheap!). With 160k+ miles, the stock struts are shot.

FYI my current plan is to drop in some used SE springs, some new KYB GR-2's, two strut mounts for the front (should I consider the rear too?), Front Control arm bushings, and Kyb strut boots (just for the front?). Will this work ok on a GXE?

Thanks in advance!

 

I believe the SE springs are a bit firmer. Your plan sounds good. But I'd HIGHLY recommend the ADDCO rear sway bar ($120 shipped about). This one mod will make such a big difference it's astounding.

 

I would be happy with returning the suspension to stock conditions. Not ready to dump a lot of money into fine tuning the Max... just want it to be safer and back to spec (at minimum).

I can always do the sway bar later.

The GXE ain't gonna be my handling monster.. it's just my comfy driver. However, if I can improve it for cheap, I am all ears!

 

In your case, I'd recommend picking up some Tokico struts, SE springs, and an SE rear sway bar. the front bars are the same for both cars, but the rear is a tad stiffer. the springs and struts are stiffer on the SE, but Tokico struts are still very afforable and much better than the factory SE struts. (and cheaper!)

 

The Tokico's are almost twice as expensive as the KYB's... Not sure if I am ready to put that kind of money into it.

How much better are the Tok's over the KYB's? I don't plan on taking the Maxima to a race track or anything (except to spectate maybe, hah)

I might definately get a SE rear sway from the junkyard or something. That would probably be pretty cheap!