Upgrade Your Nissan Patrol: Long Arm Kit Guide
Hey guys, let's dive deep into the world of Nissan Patrol long arm kits! If you're serious about taking your Patrol off-road, you know that stock suspension just doesn't cut it when you want to tackle those gnarly trails. That's where a long arm suspension kit comes into play. It's one of the most significant upgrades you can make to transform your rig into a serious off-roading machine. We're talking about vastly improved articulation, better ride quality on rough terrain, and the ability to clear bigger tires without all the hassle of a super tall lift. So, buckle up, because we're going to break down exactly what a long arm kit is, why you'd want one for your Nissan Patrol, and what you need to consider before you buy. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your legendary SUV!
What Exactly is a Long Arm Suspension Kit?
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What is a Nissan Patrol long arm kit? Simply put, it's a suspension upgrade that replaces your vehicle's factory control arms with much longer ones. Now, why is length so important? Think about how your suspension works. The control arms are essentially links that connect your axle to your vehicle's frame. They control the axle's position and allow it to pivot as the suspension moves. Factory control arms, especially on a capable rig like the Patrol, are designed as a compromise – they need to work okay on the road and offer some off-road capability. However, when you go off-road, especially over uneven terrain, those shorter arms can cause a few issues. As the axle moves up and down, the shorter arms create a more drastic change in the caster angle (the angle of the steering axis). This can lead to unpredictable handling, especially at speed, and can cause the front end to wander. It also limits the amount of articulation your suspension can achieve, meaning your tires can't stay planted on the ground as effectively over obstacles.
A long arm kit addresses this by drastically increasing the length of these control arms. With longer arms, the arc they travel through is much flatter. This means that as the suspension articulates, the changes in caster angle are much smaller and more controlled. What does this mean for you, the driver? Significantly improved stability and predictable handling, even when you're crawling over rocks or bouncing through whoops. It also allows for a much greater range of motion, meaning your suspension can soak up more of the terrain, keeping your tires in contact with the ground for maximum traction. Imagine your Patrol hugging the contours of the trail like a mountain goat – that's the kind of performance a long arm kit unlocks. It’s not just about lifting the vehicle; it’s about fundamentally improving how the suspension works off-road. Plus, by allowing for better articulation, you can often fit larger tires with less overall lift height, which means a lower center of gravity and a more stable rig.
Why Should You Consider a Long Arm Kit for Your Patrol?
So, why would you even bother with a Nissan Patrol long arm kit? Guys, if you're reading this, chances are you love getting your Patrol dirty. You want it to perform better, handle tougher obstacles, and generally be a more capable off-road beast. A long arm kit is a game-changer in achieving these goals. The most immediate benefit you'll notice is the massive increase in suspension articulation. This means your wheels can move up and down independently much further than with stock or even standard aftermarket short arm setups. Why is this awesome? Because when your tires can stay planted on the ground, you get superior traction. Over rocky terrain, uneven trails, or steep inclines, better articulation means your Patrol can conform to the ground, finding grip where a vehicle with less articulation would be lifting wheels and losing power. This can be the difference between making it over an obstacle or getting stuck.
Beyond articulation, a long arm kit significantly improves ride quality on rough terrain. Because the longer arms create a more stable caster angle throughout the suspension's travel, your Patrol will feel more planted and less 'skittish' over bumps and ruts. The harsh jolts are absorbed more smoothly, making those long off-road journeys much more comfortable for you and your passengers. Think about it: less jarring, more control. It's a win-win! Furthermore, long arm kits often allow you to run larger tires with less lift. Many off-roaders want bigger tires for better ground clearance and improved off-road performance. With a traditional lift kit, achieving the clearance for large tires often requires a significant lift height, which can negatively impact your Patrol's center of gravity, making it more prone to tipping. A long arm setup, by providing better articulation and geometry correction, can often accommodate larger tires with a more modest lift, maintaining a lower, more stable stance. This is a huge advantage for serious off-roaders. It’s a holistic approach to suspension that enhances stability, comfort, and capability all at once.
Key Components of a Long Arm Kit
When you're looking into a Nissan Patrol long arm kit, you'll find it comes with a set of specific components designed to work together. Understanding these parts will help you appreciate the engineering behind the upgrade and make informed decisions. The star of the show, of course, are the longer control arms themselves. These are typically fabricated from heavy-duty steel tubing, often DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) for superior strength and durability. They'll be significantly longer than your factory arms and will feature new mounting points, both at the axle and at the frame. The design of these arms, including their bends and angles, is crucial for correcting suspension geometry. They're not just straight tubes; they're engineered to provide the optimal caster and pinion angles after installation.
Next up, you'll usually find new frame-side brackets. Since the long arms are longer, they need a new mounting location on your Patrol's chassis. These brackets are robust pieces of steel designed to bolt or weld onto your frame, providing a solid anchor point for the front of the long arms. Some kits are designed as 'bolt-on' for easier installation, while others might require welding for maximum strength and precision. It’s important to check the specifics of the kit you’re considering. Then there are the axle-side brackets. These are also heavy-duty components that attach to your Patrol's front axle housing. They provide the mounting points for the rear end of the long control arms. These brackets are designed to correctly orient the arms and ensure proper caster and pinion angles. Often, these brackets are designed to accommodate the increased stress and leverage that comes with longer arms and more aggressive off-roading.
Finally, a good long arm kit will often include heavy-duty bushings or Johnny Joints/Heim Joints. These are the pivot points where the control arms connect to the frame and axle brackets. High-quality joints allow for smooth movement and flex without binding. Standard rubber bushings can be restrictive. Upgraded joints like Johnny Joints (a popular brand) or Heim joints offer much greater range of motion and durability, essential for extreme articulation. Some kits might also include necessary hardware, sway bar relocation brackets, or even an adjustable track bar to ensure proper alignment after the suspension geometry is altered. So, when you're shopping, make sure you know what's included in the kit to avoid surprises!
Installation Considerations and What to Expect
Alright, let’s talk about getting a Nissan Patrol long arm kit onto your rig. Installation can be a bit involved, guys, so it's not always a weekend DIY job for the faint of heart, though many experienced wrenchers can tackle it. The first thing you need to consider is your comfort level with fabrication and mechanics. Some kits are designed for relatively straightforward bolt-on installation, but others might require welding, cutting, and significant modification to your Patrol's frame and axle. If you're not confident in your welding skills or mechanical abilities, it's highly recommended to have a professional off-road shop handle the installation. Improper installation can lead to serious alignment issues, suspension binding, or even component failure, which can be dangerous and costly to fix.
When installing a long arm kit, you're essentially relocating the mounting points for your control arms. This involves removing the old arms and brackets, and then installing the new, longer arms and their associated frame and axle brackets. Precise alignment is absolutely critical. After the new arms are installed, you'll likely need to adjust your track bar (if your Patrol has one) to ensure your axle is centered under the vehicle. You’ll also need to adjust the caster and pinion angles of your front differential. This is where the engineering of the kit and the expertise of the installer really shine. The goal is to get these angles back into a safe and functional range for both on-road driving and off-road performance. You’ll also definitely need a professional alignment done by a shop that understands lifted and modified suspensions after the kit is installed. They’ll be able to dial in your toe, camber, and caster to ensure your Patrol drives straight and true.
What can you expect after installation? A night-and-day difference in off-road performance. Your Patrol will articulate much more, allowing it to crawl over obstacles with ease and maintain traction. The ride quality on rough trails will be significantly improved – smoother, more controlled, and less jarring. On-road, you should notice more stable handling, especially at highway speeds, with less wander. However, it's important to note that some setups might introduce a slightly different feel on the road, and it's crucial to get the alignment dialed in perfectly. You might also notice that your driveshaft angles change due to the lift and geometry correction, and some kits may require driveshaft modifications or slip yoke eliminators to prevent vibrations or damage. Always check the kit's specifics and consult with the manufacturer or a trusted installer about potential driveline issues. It’s an investment, but for those who push their Patrols to the limit, the transformation is absolutely worth it!
Choosing the Right Long Arm Kit for Your Nissan Patrol
Okay, so you're convinced a Nissan Patrol long arm kit is the way to go, but which one should you choose? This is where the research really pays off, guys. Not all kits are created equal, and the best one for you will depend on your specific Patrol model, your intended use, and your budget. First off, identify your Patrol's specific model year and trim. Nissan has made the Patrol for decades, and suspension mounting points and designs can vary significantly between generations (think GU, Y62, etc.). Make sure the kit you're looking at is designed specifically for your vehicle. Manufacturers will clearly state which models their kits fit.
Next, consider the intended use. Are you building a hardcore rock crawler, a fast desert runner, or a capable overlander? If you're hitting extreme rock trails, you'll want a kit with the absolute maximum articulation potential, likely featuring high-end, serviceable joints like Johnny Joints or FK rod ends. For a more general off-road use or overlanding, a robust kit with durable bushings and excellent geometry correction might be sufficient and potentially more maintenance-free. Think about durability and materials. Look for kits made from high-quality steel tubing, like DOM, which is known for its strength and resistance to bending or cracking under stress. Check the quality of the welds and the mounting brackets. A cheap kit with weak components can be a recipe for disaster when you're miles from anywhere.
Another crucial factor is the type of joints used. As mentioned, some kits use high-durometer rubber or polyurethane bushings, which are quieter and more maintenance-free but offer less articulation. Others use spherical bearings or heim joints, which provide maximum flex and durability but can be noisier and require more frequent maintenance. Then there are the hybrid options, like Johnny Joints, which offer a great balance of flex, durability, and relatively manageable maintenance. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other Patrol owners. Online forums and off-road communities are goldmines of information. See what real-world users are saying about the performance, reliability, and customer support of different brands.
Finally, don't forget about the budget and installation costs. Long arm kits are a significant investment. Factor in the cost of the kit itself, plus any additional components you might need (like extended brake lines, adjustable shocks, or driveline modifications). Also, consider the installation. If you're paying a shop, get quotes beforehand. A well-chosen long arm kit will transform your Nissan Patrol into an off-road champion, but choosing wisely is key to getting the most bang for your buck and ensuring years of reliable adventuring. Happy trails, guys!