Owlie

Ever since I got put in to a guard rail by a hit and run (quite possibly drunk) driver, I've been doing some remove/replace and minor body work. I've replaced most all of the front end components including: Radiator, Compressor, Core Support (also known as radiator support), Front Fascia, both FWD Fenders, Hood, Headlights, Intake, Grille, and more. I haven't even messed with the back end at all, and I don't think I'm going to attempt to tackle it myself as I just got out of the Marine Corps and I don't have the space or the tools.

Something helpful for the community that I discovered in this process: After being told a 2006 Altima/Maxima Core Support (Radiator Support) wouldn't fit my car I decided to do a little research. I pulled up the part schematics for both parts and found they had exactly the same dimensions, and from what I could tell (the schematics weren't really specific on bold hole placements) had the exact same fittings and hardware placements. So I decided to chance it and ordered the $160.00 2006 core support instead of the $450 2007 core support. I'm happy to announce that the supports are exactly the same. For all intensive purposes they are 100% exactly identical *(See Note 1).

The entire front end was extremely easy to fix by myself. As far as auto repair and auto body work goes, I consider myself a novice. I'm a master mechanic on helicopters, so I understand some of the skills transfer. What I'm trying to say, though, is don't be discouraged if you don't have a lot of experience with body work. This job is extremely simple. Especially if you have the full service manuals. (Search this forums for places to get said manuals). Just be patient, use the right tools, and keep track of everything you remove from the vehicle. (I.E. Put all the bots from the bumper in a bag and mark it FRONT BUMPER. Do this with every component).



* Note 1: Okay, so they aren't 100% exactly the same but before you get discourage they are in fact 99.999% the same. The only difference is the distance between the two clip holes for the forward air duct assembly (the part that mounts above the grill for the intake). And for saving $300.00, that difference is completely negligible. You can order the duct assembly for the 2006, or you can just switch to a conical air filter and remove it all together.

Owlie

I've attached some more pictures.

Also, has anyone ever had to replace a rear quarter panel? How much can I expect to pay for the replacement of just the quarter panel (no paint)?

Owlie

More pictures. Feel free to ask any questions.

Owlie

More pictures again.

Owlie

Just a quick correction.

The two misaligned holes aren't for the intake, they are for the grille. Still, not a big deal and a super easy fix.

Owlie

Here are a few pictures from today. Still need to do some minor touch up work. Obviously still looking for a hood. Not willing to give $400+ for one.

Parker Corynn

There seem to be some common issues among Nissan Maxima owners who have the 2000-2004 models. These tend to range from intermittent rough idle to reported transmission problems, to a drastic decrease in performance. We are looking in to the real cause of the problems, and offering our advice on what to do, and what NOT to do.

bds1304

iTrader: (1)

i would get some 2k urethane primer on those fenders......that black primer doesnt offer any protection from rain(it will start to rust in a short time outside)