So i've poked and prodded here in the past. even tried to sell my '04 Xterra. But decided to keep it in a semi retired state( audi A4 is my new DD)

How does one get started in off roading? Stocker runs? mild build? I've never been other than some sketchy class Vi roads in VT for a bit.

I'm located north of Boston, even interested in doing oversand runs if possible

Ideally I'd need to upgrade the springs and shocks on 200k mile X and some minor armor. Don't think i'm ready for a snorkle type mod yet.

Joining one of our club runs is the best option. You can then determine what you want to do with it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I'm probably one of the least qualified people to answer any tech questions about recommended XTerra mods - I have a J**p. But I've been know to wrench a little with my buddy Scott on his 2011 Pro4-X, so I guess I would recommend (after the basic maintenance is taken care of) removing the side steps/mud flaps and installing armor. That, with some good tires, should get you into plenty of trouble. A mild lift would be next or even a good idea before trying any of the more challenging stuff.

As far as getting started, NEXTerra hosts several runs of varying difficulty. Sign up and have fun! If you are up for a drive down to the CT/MA border, Scott & I make frequent off-road runs.
Keep an eye out here: viewtopic.php?f=11&t=8849&hilit=jac04+scott

-Jeff

Just saw the 2015 club events "thread" is there a 2016 one? If not i'll monitor the club event forum correct?

if i have some basic "prep questions" ( sliders, tires etc) post those in the appropriate Tech talk
Xterra discussion forum?

ooooh... i'll keep an eye on that thread for sure. I hit up Pauchaug forest for dirtbiking every now and then

Here is the 2016 calendar:
viewtopic.php?f=52&t=8754

Yes, any tech questions should go in the appropriate Tech Talk category.

In my opinion the best way to get started is going on stock trails and then start modifying your truck. In order of importance to modify your truck (the way i modified my truck)

1) Good offroading tires
2A) Sid plates (full under armor Shrockworks or Skid Row)
2B) Rock Sliders (Shrockworks)
3) Suspension lift and maybe a body lift (then you might want bigger tires) your truck is good up to 33" tires anything larger things start to break...
4) Steel Bumpers
5) Snorkel (only important if you plan on going through water or mud)
6) Lockers

Obviously there a few thing in the middle which are more accessories but this is a good idea of where to start.

Im going to guess the yokohama geolanders are a poor choice. Even for a stocker run
Might have to start looking for tires/ rims . I have spare rims but I have snow tires on them right now...

A great tire to start with beore lifting the tuck would be BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2

Just did some quick reviews.. looks like they have great wear (30k and up) and great traction in snow so much so I might not need my Blizzaks?

I:m starting to get sucked in....lol

Come out for a stock run first. Your street tires, while not great, will be fine for the stock runs.

Excellent advice from the others.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Welcome to the club
and every one starts somewhere .
we have some stock friendly runs that you could try out
or even just come out and hop in with someone to see what is what.

Ernie

I just talked it up with my wife right now.. a ride along or a stocker run is our choice..

Here is a question. On a stocker run is it "kosher/ safe" to bring the 1.5 yo in her car seat?

I'm going to say no probably

My son was that young when he went on his first stocker run down in Freetown. Those are very easy "trails" and family friendly.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk

Your stock X can do more than you think. Attend any run with a green group and you'll be hooked. As for tires find a good local deal something like $50/tire, because they expensive and u will def upgrade them later on. Once u wheel and like it u'll prob do suspension of body lift and then tires should be upgraded along w it. Look for an all terrain or mud terrain. Body lift will get u 2-3" clearance for tires. Suspension lift will get another 3" as well as body ground clearance. Larger tires will raise that clearance somewhat too. Most important question is whats your budget?
BL $200
SL $1200
Full skids $1200
Front bumper $1200
Winch $800
Sliders $400
Steel rims $200
33" tires $1000