I don't believe that it would be possible to completely waterproof all components of the Xterra without a rather unlimited bank account. I think it would require replacing all electrical components with military-grade stuff made for dunking. I think it WOULD be possible to achieve a "close-enough" quality of waterproofing, though. Some of the ideas I have for waterproofing the electrical's are dielectric grease, RTV silicone goo, and large amounts of heat-shrink tubing & self-sealing tape. I'm sure a marine supply would have a lot of useful parts. Also, remember if at all possible, try to stay out of the murky stuff, it will do far more damage than "clean" water. The hole in the fender is not a big deal for me (as long as I cut it in the right place). I was thinking about cutting out an inside chunk of the fender (looking at the engine bay, LF, near the stock battery location) to fit a York air compressor in there. There's no tire under that area of the fender, but I may want to fabricate a new "spash-shield" to keep water and mud away from the engine.