Xcessive Manufacturing 240sx Parts: Product Review

The Nissan 240SX, particularly the S13 and S14 generations, has achieved legendary status in the tuner and drift communities. Its robust SR20DET or KA24DE engine, coupled with a responsive chassis and relatively simple design, makes it a perfect platform for modification. However, finding high-quality aftermarket parts can sometimes be a challenge. Today, we're diving deep into Xcessive Manufacturing's product line for the 240SX, offering a technical review geared towards the experienced DIYer.

Xcessive Manufacturing: Who Are They?

Xcessive Manufacturing (often shortened to just "Xcessive") is a well-known name, specializing in high-performance chassis and suspension components. They focus on improving handling, rigidity, and adjustability, which are critical factors for both track and street applications. Their products are generally CNC-machined from billet aluminum or fabricated from high-strength steel, promising enhanced durability compared to OEM counterparts.

Front Lower Control Arms (FLCAs)

One of Xcessive's most popular offerings is their Front Lower Control Arms. These replace the factory LCAs, providing several key advantages. Let's break down the technical details:

Key Features & Technical Specifications:

• Increased Track Width: The Xcessive FLCAs typically extend the track width, offering improved stability and cornering grip. This increase in track width effectively lengthens the wheelbase relative to the car's overall length, reducing oversteer.
• Adjustable Caster: Caster is the angle of the steering pivot axis in relation to the vertical, as viewed from the side of the vehicle. Increasing positive caster improves straight-line stability at high speeds and provides more steering feel. Xcessive FLCAs allow for precise caster adjustments, enabling fine-tuning of handling characteristics. They achieve this through eccentric bolts or shims built into the arm.
• Reinforced Construction: Factory LCAs, especially on older 240SXs, can be prone to bending or cracking under the stress of aggressive driving. Xcessive FLCAs are typically constructed from high-strength steel or billet aluminum, offering significantly increased rigidity and resistance to deformation.
• Spherical Bearings (Optional): Some Xcessive FLCAs are available with spherical bearings (rod ends) instead of rubber bushings. Spherical bearings eliminate bushing deflection, providing a more direct and responsive feel. However, they also transmit more NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) into the cabin, making them better suited for dedicated track cars. The trade-off is increased performance for reduced comfort.
• Roll Center Correction: When a vehicle is lowered, the roll center height changes, often leading to increased body roll and reduced grip. Xcessive FLCAs sometimes incorporate geometry changes to help correct the roll center, improving handling balance. This is often achieved by changing the ball joint mounting point, effectively raising it and mitigating the negative effects of lowering.

Installation & Considerations:

Installing FLCAs is a relatively straightforward process for experienced DIYers. You'll need basic hand tools, a torque wrench, and potentially a ball joint separator. Proper torque specifications are crucial, especially with spherical bearings. It's also essential to get a professional alignment after installation to ensure optimal handling and tire wear. When using spherical bearings, regular lubrication is recommended to prolong their lifespan and minimize noise.

Potential Drawbacks: While the performance benefits are undeniable, spherical bearings can introduce more noise and vibration. Extended track width may also require fender modifications to accommodate wider wheels and tires. Be sure to check your local regulations regarding wheel fitment and fender coverage.

Rear Lower Control Arms (RLCAs)

Mirroring the front, Xcessive also offers Rear Lower Control Arms designed to enhance rear grip and handling. Similar principles apply here, but with different considerations.

Key Features & Technical Specifications:

• Adjustable Toe: Accurate toe adjustment is critical for achieving desired handling characteristics and minimizing tire wear. Xcessive RLCAs allow for precise toe adjustments, enabling you to fine-tune oversteer or understeer tendencies. Toe is the angle of the wheels relative to the centerline of the vehicle when viewed from above.
• Adjustable Camber: Camber is the angle of the wheel relative to the vertical, as viewed from the front or rear of the vehicle. Negative camber (top of the wheel tilted inward) increases grip during cornering. Xcessive RLCAs provide camber adjustment, allowing you to optimize tire contact patch for specific driving conditions.
• Reinforced Construction: Similar to the front, the rear LCAs benefit from increased strength and rigidity compared to the factory parts.
• Spherical Bearings (Optional): Again, spherical bearings offer increased responsiveness at the cost of comfort.

Installation & Considerations:

Installation of RLCAs is similar to FLCAs, requiring basic tools and a torque wrench. Pay close attention to the torque specifications, especially when dealing with adjustable components. Professional alignment is absolutely necessary after installation. When adjusting camber and toe, small changes can have a significant impact on handling. It's best to make adjustments incrementally and test the results before making further changes.

Potential Drawbacks: As with the front, spherical bearings can increase NVH. Incorrect camber or toe settings can lead to rapid tire wear. Ensure you have a qualified alignment technician who understands performance alignments.

Steering Knuckles (Spindles)

Xcessive Manufacturing also produces steering knuckles, offering improvements in steering geometry and bump steer correction. Bump steer occurs when the wheels steer themselves slightly as the suspension moves up and down.

Key Features & Technical Specifications:

• Improved Ackermann Angle: Ackermann angle is the difference in steering angle between the inner and outer wheels during a turn. Optimizing Ackermann angle can improve cornering performance and reduce tire scrub. Xcessive knuckles often incorporate geometry changes to improve Ackermann.
• Bump Steer Correction: By relocating the steering tie rod mounting point, Xcessive knuckles can reduce or eliminate bump steer, resulting in more predictable and stable steering.
• Increased Steering Angle (Optional): Some Xcessive knuckles are designed to increase steering angle, making them popular among drift enthusiasts. This is typically achieved by relocating the steering arm.
• Reinforced Construction: Steering knuckles are subject to significant loads, so the reinforced construction of Xcessive knuckles provides added durability and safety.

Installation & Considerations:

Installing steering knuckles is a more involved process than simply replacing control arms. It requires disconnecting brake lines, removing the hub assembly, and potentially pressing out wheel bearings. Extreme caution is advised when working with brake lines. Ensure you bleed the brakes properly after installation to remove any air. A professional alignment is, again, mandatory. Increased steering angle may also necessitate modifications to the chassis or inner fenders to prevent tire rubbing.

Potential Drawbacks: This is a more complex installation. Improper installation can lead to serious safety issues. Increased steering angle can reduce steering effort and feel.

Overall Impression & Recommendations

Xcessive Manufacturing offers a range of high-quality components for the Nissan 240SX that can significantly improve handling and performance. Their products are generally well-engineered and constructed, providing a worthwhile upgrade for experienced DIYers and enthusiasts. However, it's crucial to understand the technical aspects of each component and ensure proper installation and adjustment. If you are uncomfortable with any aspect of the installation or alignment process, seek the help of a qualified mechanic. Always prioritize safety and performance.

Before purchasing any aftermarket parts, consider your intended use for the vehicle. If you primarily drive on the street, spherical bearings may be overkill. If you're building a dedicated track car, then the performance benefits may outweigh the increased NVH. Do your research, understand the potential tradeoffs, and choose the components that best suit your needs. Finally, remember that proper alignment is critical for maximizing the performance of any suspension upgrades and ensuring safe handling.