95 & 96 pathfinder, what's the difference?

[medicbaldwin]

I've just recently acquired a 95 pathfinder and have immediately started looking for parts, as any decent human would after getting a new ride.
As i'm searching i see 88-95 (parts are far and few between)
96-on (parts are alot more available)

what are the key differences? Will suspension parts from 96 and newer fit a 95?

I'm mainly looking for suspension and exhaust components.

thanks

[smj999smj]

Apples and oranges! The 86-1/2 thru 95 Pathfinders were the first generation, designated model WD21. They featured a body on frame with conventional steering box & linkage. The Z24i 4-cyl. and VG30i were available in the first couple of years, eventually replaced by the VG30E. Initially offered as a 2-door, later models were available with 4-doors. In 96, the R50 model Pathfinder came out and featured a unibody chassis and rack & pinion steering. It had the VG33E engine until 2001, when the VQ35DE replaced it. The R50 ran thru 2004. In 2005, the R51 arrived and went back to the body on frame and moved up to the VQ40DE engine. The only thing the WD21 and R50 have in common is the VG-series engine.

[medicbaldwin]

Yet another question. I'm looking for suspension parts for the pathfinder and curious what, if any, parts can swap over from the Nissan hardbody and 95 pathy?

[smj999smj]

I'm sure some would, but it depends on the drivetrain of the Hbody and what parts you are talking about. There are plenty of parts available for the WD21 Pathy so I don't know why you would be concerned about Hbody parts? What type of parts are you looking for? For stock parts, just about everything on it is still available new from Nissan. Try sites like 1stAAANissanParts.com or CourtesyParts.com. For aftermarket parts, try Rockauto.com. If you're looking for aftermarket lift kits, grille guards, of road lighting and that sort of stuff, try www.4x4Parts.com

[medicbaldwin]

thanks for the info. Since this post i've discovered 4x4parts.com, definitely gonna be a go to site for suspension.
I'll be in the market for exhaust soon, i'm noticing the notorious exhaust tick in which i'm sure i'll find a cracked manifold.

[smj999smj]

The 3.3L was better known for cracked manifolds than the 3.0L, which was better known for broken exhaust studs.