O.K. after doing some research around this is what I have come up with.

Calmini Upper Control Arms
Nismo 30% stiffer torsion bars, or the Calmini torsion bars
Bilstein 5100 series shocks all around
National Springs 10 leaf pack
Calmini Rear Swabar Extensions
Calmini Steering System
Calmini Idler Arm Brace
Calmini Shackles

So let me know what you all think about that set up. I have never lifted a vehicle so I am not up to par with everything that goes along with it.

Peace,

MooT

Calmini doesn't have a steering system yet and they've typically announced products way before they become available. But maybe you won't wear out your centerlink before they ship.

When it does become available it appears you'll need to replace their idler arm brace (at least the one in the photos is slightly different).

I would buy SLR shackles over Calmini's. The SLR ones are one solid piece, plus you'll have less obnoxious blue paint under your truck.

Sway bar extensions? Wouldn't bother after getting the Bilsteins, but if you like blue, go for it. ;)

Can't go wrong with the Nationals, just remember you'll have a new low point for clearance.

Doh, posted to your double thread. Damn I'm tired, just got back from Moab.

Originally posted by Schludwiller
I would buy SLR shackles over Calmini's. The SLR ones are one solid piece

Which means they don't flex as well.
SLR does make shackles that are not welded though.

I hadn't concidered that, but then I haven't had any problems with flex on my National Spring pack. I'm more concerned with departure impact against the shackles and them holding up. But like you say, that's why they make two different versions.

How much do the National Spring Packs run?

Peace,

MooT

I believe around $650.

I think I should have said "twist" instead of "flex".
When the rear axle gets all crossed up, the shackles that are not welded can twist a bit in relation to one another, putting less stress on the spring eye and bolt.

As for strength, ask Mosi, the shackles are my new low point in the back, and I dropped them hard onto two shelves in Moab last month. Nothing bent, but they got scratched a bit.

I understand the concept. After you mentioned it I saw a pic of my leaf springs on a nice twisty spot. The spring eye is at an angle where the urethane bushing is compressing. Chuck and I have almost the same rear setup/height except for the shackles. I'll take some pics next time we go over a nice obstacle.

I just looked up Fabtech, and was wondering what the deal is with the 2WD xterra lift? is there any real difference between the 4WD and the 2WD other than the differential and such? Does anyone have the lift, know about it, or know someone with it? I am curious as to what quality their stuff is.

Thanks,

MooT

Since I've had both kinds of shackles I think I can say that although the SLR ones are extremely stout, I think they are overkill. The Calmini shackles are made of some pretty heavy steel so they are not wimpy by any stretch of the imagination. I haven't come down on the yet but I'm sure they would be fine. I did come down on teh SLR ones many times at Moab and they only scratched. I never thought about the twisty thing but that makes sense. hehe, whatever flavor you like! :)

Hey MooT! The Fabtech stuff isn't really very good. You're much better off dealing with SLR or Calmini for a lift. Much better quality of componenets and you are less likely to have alignment problems or such. Plus,a s you noted I don't think Fabtech has a kit for the 4WD. I'm not exactly sure but I think the front track is different for the 4WD and so the A-Arms and such are probably different. Just a guess.