What would be the smartest way to spend 2 grand on my 02 Max that already has a system and intake? This can be either for strictly performance, strictly aesthetics, or a combo.

 

If it were me, i'd get some nice light weight rims. Upgrading your suspension should be high on your list. mmmmmm....rimmmmmmss.

 

decals
qwertyuiop[

 

suspension and rims put you at right about 2000. and if you get a good deal on those you can probably squeeze a ypipe. 2k is a LOT of money really.

 

Coilovers, Front Strut Tower Bar, Rear Sway Bar

 

suspension and rims

 

Headers, ECU, Exhaust=1200
+
800 suspension

 

headers, ecu and a catback. should put u there

 

The suspension is the weakest point on the 5th gen IMHO. Hit it first: Struts, springs & RSB.

 

definitely rims and suspension. Handling sux in the stock form. Performance-wise, it is good and fast stock unless you want to squeeze out an extra 10-20hp for 2 grands?

 

I'll go rims and suspension, are there any lightweight 19' rims?

 

Hard to find for less than $2k

 

I'd go with rims and save the rest of the money for a later date since it seems you dont really know what you want to put on your Maxima. If you drop 6 pounds per rim that roughly equates to 200 curb weight savings: thats roughly .2 seconds in the 1/4, so it not only looks sweet, it also increases performance. Thats based on keeping the same size rims though, 19's have a lot more rotational inertia, which doesnt help the acceleration

 

Hard to tell without seeing the mods you've done. Lowering, FSTB, Lighting, and interior stuff combined you can do for all less than that. Of course Wheels and tires are always right up there

 

Springs- $200
Struts- $400
RSB- $100
FSTB- $20
18" wheels and tires- $1400

Well, I'm over $2000, but I view all of the above mods as a necessity.

 

Maybe I just need to ride in a Maxima with all the suspension mods, but I really have no problem with the way my car handles. I dont drive it like Auto-Xing everyday, or ever really, so I just cant see the huge advantage with the suspension mods. Other than lowering the car looks nice

 

YES u definetaly need to... my car handled like a buick before after lowering it and putting RSB etc suspension mods i would not take it any other way ......the handling >>looks>> no more wheel hop>>>. etc....etc suspension is def worth it IMO

-J

 

Payment on your note... sorry, couldn't resist, that's the cranky 37 year old in me. Smart a$$ comments aside, if I had 2 grand to spend on my car the first thing I would buy would be some illuminas. I installed some SE rear springs on my GLE and that was probably the single biggest improvement in handling. I also have a stillen RSB which was noticable, but only when driving aggressively. The stock dampers are just weak and leave the car feeling floaty. Personnaly I think the stock SE spring rate is just fine. Here's my list in order of priority:
1. principal payment
2. illuminas
3. SE rear springs.... you have an SE so skip this one.
4. RSB
5. lighter 17's or 18's. I'm a little conservative, 19's too big for me.
6. FSTB
7. aftermarket springs all-around (minimum drop would be my choice)
8. no drivetrain perf mods for me.... I really don't need more power.

forgot to mention... bigdo26, awesome pic of your car. Makes me wish for snow.

 

i dont know bout u guys.. but if i had 2k and some .. i'd go straight for the SUPERCHARGER

 

No SC available for 5.5 Gens.