[Wisco]

Hey guys, I'm new here. Had my 2011 4x for awhile now and looking into lift kits. I have done a fair amount of research. I'm looking to get 33s on, and looking for a kit with a more plush ride. I'll be towing status fishing boat in the summers. Looking for what you good people with more experience recommend. Thanks everyone!

 

[SimpleX]

I would suggest starting with this article and some of the stickies in this forum: OG Travel Numbers Post

Once you do that come back with a budget and lift height and people can give better recommendations.

Know that any lift will require an alignment and you should get cam bolts.

Up to 1.5" you do not need Upper Control Arms (UCA's) to prevent Coil Bucket Contact (CBC). 2" you should get aftermarket UCA's or you MAY get CBC. Over 2" you definitely need UCA's & should add in extended brake lines.

If you use Bilstein 5100's or an extended strut/coilover (such as radflos) with a spacer you will maintain down-travel & a more plush ride. If you use those with an aftermarket UCA you will increase front wheel travel (app 7" w/ Bilstein 5100/6112/Fox and 7.4" (before binding) w/Radflos.

You will want to change to a heavier duty rear spring or an Add A Leaf (AAL) or Dual AAL to increase load capacity, reduce sway, etc for towing.

Talk to the major distributors mentioned on this site once you get options together & they will be able to set you up (Nisstec, PRG, Alldogs, Rugged Rocks, etc).

 

[early 2010]

Remember that the least amount of lift to do the job is generally the best. Add in you plan on towing, keep it low and keep the sway bars. The Xterra isn't the greatest tow vehicle to start with, lift kits don't help towing, but they do hurt it.

 

[robust57]

As someone who tows with 33's, get 4.10 gears.

 

[Tlrtucker]

If you're only goal is to fit 33's, you don't need a lift. 285's, which are a hair under 33", will fit with just the melt mod.