Anyone know why the struts and shocks on the 00-01 Maxima of a different part number than the 02-03 years? The struts I am talking about specifically are the KYB GR2s.

I was under the impression that struts were interchangable between all 5th gens.

 

i have stock gle 00 suspension in my 02, i dunno why the part #s are different, all 00-03s are the same suspension wise..

edit..iirc the SE models had a stiffer spring..maybe? something was different to make it "sporty" but all 00-03s are interchangeable..

 

From what I remember, the difference is something about the 5.5 gen has ABS lines that get in the way. You COULD use the 5th gen struts on a 5.5 gen, but you'd have to zip tie them to the struts somehow.

That was the difference I remember. Might want to search or wait for someone to confirm that though.

 

The 3.5 is a little heavier that the 3.0. Would this make a difference?

 

I would guess the same as above^ at first glance. It's more likely that the ABS note, or the SE model struts (stiffer) are causing the PN difference.

 

i dont recall having to ziptie my abs line

 

he's talking about the kyb gr2's which was what I was referring to. You mentioned using the stock 00 GLE struts

 

All manufacturers will change a part number when they modify a part. Whether it is a tiny weldment, a different bolt, whatever, the part number will change.
Some companies determine the part number by where it ships to. Makes it easier for them to ship.
If you look at a 5th gen strut and a 5.5 gen shock the ABS bracket and brake line brackets differ ever so slightly.
My company makes a part which is shipped to 5 different companies around the world. They go on the same car (global platform) yet there are 5 part numbers.

 

Hmm good to know ^^