2004-2008: How to Install Vertical Doors on a 6th Gen Nissan Maxima

Last Updated: 02/09/2025 @ 06:42 am

Credit: Wil~Bones

I recently installed the Vertical Doors Inc. kit and wanted to share a detailed guide.

Kit Includes:

• 8 M8-1.25x30mm bolts with washers
• Right and left hinge assembly
• 2 shoulder bolts with washers
• 2 shocks (680 PSI)
• 2 pins
• Wire loom

Tools Required:

• Spacers (use a paint stick wrapped with blue painter’s tape)
• Blue painter’s tape
• Red Loctite
• Screwdrivers (fork and Phillips)
• Cutters
• Sockets: 10mm, 12mm, 13mm with extension
• Air ratchet, grinder, and cutter
• Allen wrenches: 1/4 and 3/16

Steps:

1. Disconnect the battery.

2. Remove the Fender:

• Remove all fasteners around the wheel well.
• Remove the splash guard to access (2) 10mm bolts under the fender.
• Pull the wheel well to access (2) 10mm bolts securing the fender to the bumper.
• Carefully pull the bumper to access (1) 10mm bolt securing the fender to the body.
• Remove the fender carefully.

3. Modify the Wire Layout:

• Open the door and remove the factory wire boot using a fork.
• Remove the foot guard and kick plate to access (2) wire harnesses. Remove plastic clips to gain extra wire slack.
• Remove the door panel to remove the door catch and gain more wire slack.

3. Modify the Door:

• Cut the plastic door panel to allow the door to raise without hitting the fender. Use black door trim for a finished look.

4. Replace the Door:

• Secure the door to the body with painter’s tape in preparation for factory hinge removal.
• Use a 13mm socket to remove the factory hinges.

5. Install Vertical Doors Inc. System:

• Ensure all mounting surfaces are flat.
• Use original nuts on the doors.
• Tighten the nuts on the door first, then the bolts on the body.

6. Adjust Hinges:

• Once the hinge is locked, break the nut and turn the Allen set screw until it hits the block.
• Adjust until the door matches with the striker, ensuring it closes properly.
• Adjustments might be needed after installing the shocks.

7. Install the Shock:

• You will need a helper to raise the door.
• Slip the spherical rod mount into the spherical ball bearing. Tighten the screw into the swing arm.
• Secure the shock by installing the pin at the bottom.

8. Reinstall Door Panel:

• Lift the door and adjust the door opening screw clockwise until the swing arm moves freely.
• Ensure the adjustment of the door is accurate, and everything is tight with Locktite.

9. Modify Factory Wire Loom:

• Open and raise the door, cut the factory wire boot in half, and add the included wire loom to protect exposed wires.

10. Cut the Fender:

• Cut the fender to make room for the new hinge. Use a sander or grinder to ensure the surface is flat.

Final Steps:

• Replace the fender after adjustments.
• Enjoy your newly installed Vertical Doors.

This installation saved me between $600 to $1000. The car is now in the shop for a new paint job in Le Mans Blue and Pearl Black.