Hello All

I have a 02 Frontier, crew 4x4, long bed with over 100,000 miles on it. I purchased it new in 02 now I want to modify it by lifting it 3” repainting it and fixing the interior. The Truck is in great condition in & out other than a few little dings it runs great. I don’t know how to get started. What do I do first? Any recommendations on who, what and where? I really do not have the time or desire to do it myself.

First off to N4W!

For your truck there are two good options for a 3" Suspension lift. Either http://www.4x4parts.com (Automotive Customizers) or http://www.Purenissan.com (Calmini). As far as a good place to do the installation, I couldn't tell you. I did my lift myself and it was actually a lot easier than I thought it would be.

If you're looking to put bigger tires on your truck it is usually recommended that you also upgrade your steering even if you dont plan on wheeling your truck. Calmini sells a good upgrade and it can be found on their website.

Also, you said your truck has 100,000 miles on it. Have you replaced your timing belt and water pump yet? If not, now would be the time to do it.

And...

Thanks for the information. Yes I have replaced the timing belt and pump. In AZ we need to be on top of the cooling system. I will look into your suggestions. I plan to give the truck to my granddaughter, even though she is only 12 she is an outdoor enthusiast like her grandpa.

You could probably have your trusty local mechanic install the lift kit parts and steering upgrade parts for about the same labor as you'd pay to have stock replacements installed.

Thats great, but what steering upgrade parts do I need? Now that I think about it I need to check the u-joints checked as well.

One of the best steering upgrades out there is the Calmini kit, http://www.purenissan.com/steering_system2.htm

Their upper control arm replacement set is also pretty stout
http://www.purenissan.com/d22_control_arms.htm

And they have shackles for the back to bring it in line with the lifted front
http://www.purenissan.com/h_d__shackle_4wd.htm

They also have a complete kit with stiffer torsion bars and longer shocks included http://www.purenissan.com/3_suspension_4wd.htm

What is the difference between a 3” body lift and a 3” suspension lift? What at the advantages and disadvantages?

Suspension Lift:
Pros: It gets your front diff higher off the ground. It allows for better rear flex if you got aal or Shackles. If you decide to buy and offroad armor you wont have to modify it to but up like you have to do with a body lift.
Cons: Puts your suspension at weird angles. Puts a lot of stress on your cvs and ball joints. IT changes your suspension geometry and will drive different. More expensive.

Body Lift:
Pros: Allows for bigger tires that suspension lift. It will put less stress on your steering, and suspension. It doesnt change your steering orr suspesnion geomtry and doesnt drive much differently besides being a little more top heavy which all lifts will do

Cons: "Harder" usually to install. Have to extend lines, drop brackets, steering extension, etc... Not as much ground clearence. IF you plan on getting tjm or Arb bumper you must modify it to fit.