1997 Pathfinder Exhaust Manifold Replacement

[tdefreest]

I've been lurking on these forums for a few months now. I recently acquired a 1997 Pathfinder (Mileage unknown, estimating ~180k) and I'm looking to fix the major issues with it. One of the issues is there is a crack in the Exhaust Manifold.

When looking to buy the part at Rockauto.com, it recommends to also replace the engine mount at the same time. Now, I figured I would ask some people actually knowledgeable with Pathfinders, should I bother doing this?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

[Upgrayedd]

I haven't had to replace an exhaust manifold but my guess as to why they would suggest replacing the engine mount is because you will have easy access to it with the manifold removed. If the mount was easy enough to swap out and wasn't too expensive then I probably would go ahead and do it for peace of mind.

[tdefreest]

Thanks, not sure if it's an easy replacement, I was looking at the manual and true to the name it the engine mount holds up the engine. Doesn't look like its a very easy task.

I'm trying to figure out which exhaust manifold I need. The parts are labeled "left" and "right". I can't find any reference to them in the manuals.

Does anyone know which one to buy for the passenger-side manifold? Left or right?

[Upgrayedd]

Left & right is always defined as you sit in the vehicle. Left is driver side, right is passenger side.

[tdefreest]

Thanks for your help! I've ordered the parts. I'll post some pictures as I go and update the forum with challenges/results.

[Sparkadelic]

Hi - I'm in the same boat with my '97 Pathfinder. Did you have a chance to post pics or updates at some point?

[tdefreest]

Sorry for he delay in the update!

I did successfully replace the exhaust manifold and I did not have to replace he engine mount, which I returned to the store.

However, I uncovered and fixed a litany of other issues/replacement parts during the job:
- radiator
- cv axles
- knock sensor
- exhaust manifold
- various gaskets/filters/fluids
- sunroof replacement
- timing belt/water pump
- aftermarket/Bluetooth radio
- front brakes
- rack & pinion

And I still got more to do!
- o2 sensors codes are lit up (x3)
- knock sensor code is still on
- rear brakes
- new shocks/struts/coils
- thinking about roof rack/lights
- larger tires
- I’m sure something else will pop up

All part of the fun of owning a 21 year old car haha.