Hi everyone, after seeing that handling was the word of the day, I had some handling question I would like to throw out in the air.

1) This is my first Maxima, and I am happy with the handling but wanted to know from all those who have owned previous generations, what they believe the best gen has been in stock handling characteristics based on their experiences and why? Also, I read somewhere (I think R&T), that the 5th gen has the same weight distribution as the ZX, but am wondering how this statement is interpreted in handling terms? What exactly does this mean?

2) If I just upgrade to fstrb and rstrb, as I have read in another thread to do if improved handling is desirable, do I have to make any changes to the other stock suspension components on a otherwise stock SE if I just want to achieve better handling? I know better tires are desirable but I am pretty happy with my stock 225's as of now. I am very happy with the ride quality (smoothness), but would like to weigh my options for improved handling. Please let me know what you all think?

 

I don't own a previous gen, but I have access to one. The 4th and 5th gen have basically the same handling characteristics, but the only difference is the turning radius. 5th gens suck big time. I don't know what the weigth distribution is, but the closer you get to 50/50, the better you'll handle.

Upgrade to FSTB and RSB. Check the FAQ sticky thread for detailed info, but in a nut shell, you don't have to change any of your stock suspension.

 

Thanks for the info Kev, what is the difference between a rear sway bar and the rear strut bar, if that is what the abbreviations indicate?

Up until about 50mph or so I am happy with the handling, but am noticing this body roll that others are talking about at higher speeds. Sounds like the Front strut and rear sway bar is the way to go, but still would like to know more about what this rear strut (not sway ?) bar will do. I'd like to keep all stock components in place, and would just like to concentrate on add-ons. Any recommendations on brand (ie. stillen)?

 

Yup, no prob. The RSB goes under your car, while the RSTB goes in your trunk. You can find out more by looking at the Maxima FAQ (click on Maxima.org logo in upper left corner, then click on MAXFAQS).

In my opinion, you won't need the RSTB unless you go auto crossing or want to complete the suspension setup.

 

Do any of these two suspension mods void any part of the new car warranty from Nissan?

 

From what I've seen up here, it depends entirely on your service department. Some folks have said they get **** for everything, whereas my service manager complimented me on my FSTB. Of course, I haven't brought it in since I've installed my POP-Charger so the jury is still out on that kind of mod.

Cheers!

 

I "should not" but knowing Nissan dealers, they'll might give you grief. The only things they can question are the front struts (I don't see how unless over torque and break something) and rear brake/ABS lines (follow the instructions and you'll have no problems).

 

no one has given me any trouble over FSTB and RSB yet.... get them....they improve handling tremendously....

 

How bout in terms of lowering. Will I still get great handling if the only mods i make to the stock suspension are the fstb and rsb? I really do not want to make any other suspension mods, but am wondering if these two will still improve handling by themselves?

 

Your car won't be lowered unless you put aftermarket springs on. Yes, the two mods you listed will improve handling.