just bought a Xterra! Baseline/maintenance questions...

[bruzer1123]

Just so it is clear...the motor has already been changed to synthetic oil by the PO. I was just thinking of changing the rest of the fluids to synthetic but maybe I won't.

I realize driving style has the biggest impact on mpg, but I had heard some "web rumors" about synthetic having less resistance or something that could help mpg. If that is incorrect I would not be surprised. I also didn't buy the rig to get good mileage (got a corolla for that!) but getting the best I can would be great! :smiley_drive:

I am pretty psyched about the color too! One of these days I will get some pics up.
:victory::sombrero:

 

[alexrex20]

if you switch to synthetic for fuel economy, then you should also start indexing your spark plug for extra power.

looking forward to pics.

 

[steelcityslicker]

Wow bruzer! I should really read more carefully before posting lol!! Hey, if the truck is already switched over to synthetic and you don't have any problems then that's great.

I do sense the mod bug is creeping up on you. It's just a matter of time before it bites......

 

[bruzer1123]

as promised...photos

 

[steelcityslicker]

Yep, good looking truck you have there. Mine looked very much like that when i bought it. That didn't last very long though

And so it begins.........

 

[drbandkgb]

Loose the mud flaps and side rails ... Will look much taller

Plus the mud flaps tend to get ripped off

 

[bruzer1123]

Clutch woes

Okay. So it's been awhile and we have enjoyed the Xterra. My only real complaint is the stupid "dipstick". I have the hardest time reading the level as it is different on each of the four sides. Since our last posts, I have changed the transmission, transfer case, and differential oil. Found out I had a LSD rear, which was nice. Also changed the PCV valve. Also made a "cargo net" divider between the cargo and rear seats. I plan on repacking the front bearings, and change the fuel filter. However, on a drive back from Utah, we started hearing a weird whining noise when the clutch was engaged. So, after a bit of research we determined it was the throw out bearing. Ordered parts (throwout bearing, pilot bearing, clutch, etc) as well as rear main seal from Nissan. Got the parts in and anticipated having some "fun" putting them in. So, after crawling around under the X, I am concerned that I don't have the skills (or tools) necessary to do both. I've never done a clutch before and the most I ever did was do a head gasket on a 22re toyota. So, anyone here done an Xterra clutch themselves and have any advise? The local shop will do it for ~$625.

Thanks,
Jeremy

 

[drbandkgb]

I never trust my self with a Tranny.. Lots of parts and many things can go wrong... Plus they are going to warranty the work id assume..
I try to do almost everything my self.. but that is one I wont do

 

[bruzer1123]

Thanks for the info drbandkgb-I was feeling that I should be able to do it, but was getting uneasy since it is the wife's rig. Anyone else have thoughts?

 

[Slicky72]

Transmission work on a 4x4 is a drag. Lots of stuff to remove to get to it. If you can find someone locally to give you a hand that knows what they are doing it is very doable . It's just labor intensive. I've always taken my vehicle to the pros for tranny service . Good luck!

 

[roninjiro]

Like Slicky said... it can be tuff without the right tools. When I did mine, I removed the driveshafts, 2 cross members i think, torsion bars, and all connecting linkages/harnesses. I wouldn't mind doing it again, but I have the tools to do it.

 

[bruzer1123]

Thanks for the input folks. It sounds like it will go in this Friday....hopefully it goes well. Roninjiro-I dig your build thread with the diesels....I would assume that for you a clutch would be easy if you can do a motor swap!!

 

[roninjiro]

Ty bruzer! I am a mechanic/fabricator by trade so it is not that bad for me. side note i prefer automatics, but don't tell anyone that! :ylsmoke:

Good luck with the repair!