I went to the pull and save junkyard today to get a few things for my new Maxima (2001 SE). I was wondering what parts from other generations (or the Altimas) are compatible/worth upgrading/swapping? Or if there is anything in particular that I should look at for?

Today, I bought a set of chrome door scuff plates (not sure what they are called) for $12. I'm going to go back Friday and get a steering wheel and an exhaust. There are 4 5th gen Maximas, a 2007 Maxima, and a bunch of Altimas all the way up to 2006 (as well as some Sentras).

Any advice is appreciated! I'm new to Nissans and loving my Maxima so far.

 

MAF sensors
Fan resistors
Throttle bodies

Good exhaust pieces will bring good money on eBay too.

I always load up on the common nuts and bolts too. it seems like 80% of the car is held together by a hand full of different fasteners. Having them on hand has come in handy on many occasions.

Hint: Look for oil change stickers on the windshield to get an estimate of the miles on the car.

 

also coil packs

 

find a hlsd transmission

 

ECM/ECU unit behind the dash by kickpanels. But check/open up and see if any of the chips have burnt off or dislodged.

 

Which years/models/engines? Again, I just got my first Nissan on Saturday, so I'm still learning a lot.

 

The 2000/2001 Max has an auto or 5speed manual with the VQ30DE (3.0L) motor. The 2002/2003 has an auto or 6speed manual with the VQ35 (3.5L) motor. The MAF sensors for these cars are a bit different, as well as some of the electrical. Most other parts are the same between 5th gen cars though.

For an 01, might be useful to get some back up headlights from an 01-03. Maybe fogs from an 01 since those only fit the 01 bumper. Side markers? If you have a leather interior, or want one, this might be the time too. Interiors are almost completely the same besides the shift bezel.

If you look for transmissions, do some research. Seems some are rarer than others since they are more regional, like George mentioned the HLSD. People have favorites.

 

I think the HLSD MT are the best option for this generation. I got to try various combo of AT and MT cars and the HLSD wins for aggressive / stupid / idotic driving for me!

 

If you can snag a decent pair of headlights (HID) from an 02-03 with all the tabs intact, I think we could make a deal

I have been looking for some in fair (not pristine by any means) shape to mod/retro/mess around with.

Or, you could probably make a lot of your money back if you sold them on ebay.

PM me if you find a set and want to do some business!

 

^^this X 100^^

I swapped an open diff tranny for HLSD and it literally transformed the car. It amazes me that they didn't make all the 6-speed cars HLSD.

 

if i floor it while turning, is this a direct relation to how that would feel?

 

Flooring it in a turn with the open diff would get one of the tires spinning and cause the car to plow in a straight line.

With HLSD the car whips around the corner like it's on rails. It's really a night and day difference.

The car is also a lot better in the rain. Puddles no longer cause the car to jerk to one side and traction is much better.

 

I'll check on the headlights.

I went there today and got a few things: leather e-brake handle from an Infiniti and one of the plastic engine splash guard things. I tried to get an aftermarket exhaust, but couldn't get it off (damn bolts are rusted). I bought a couple hacksaws today, so I'm going to go back tomorrow and get it. Can't pass up a $15 aftermarket muffler.

Also, I was wondering if it's worth it to get a Bose subwoofer/amp to put in my car. Or should I just get the bracket and buy a new sub/amp. I'm not really concerned a whole lot about quality, I just want to save some $$$.

 

I know it's a long way from Peoria, but were there any decent rear driver's doors?

 

There are, but shipping would be outrageous. Surely there are junk yards in Peoria.

 

The U-pull it yards in my area have just recently started getting 5th gens. You're lucky to have that many available.

 

wow, and sorry follow up newb question, correct me if I am wrong,

the HLSD is only available for the 6MT not automatics correct?

 

Right. 5MT had a Viscus LSD option and I don't think it was ever available in an automatic Maxima.

 

I would pick up a VIAS controller if you can get one. These things frequently go bad---and you'll be hard pressed to find one again (unless you are lucky). I've seen them retail between 100-250.

ALSO, coil packs---if the rubber is good.

Electrical parts under the hood, if they are cheap and compatible with your car.

Sounds like you hit a little jackpot (if they haven't been stripped already).


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