97 pathy mechanical help/advice

[nissan canada]

Hi everyone,
I'm a long time reader first time writer. Next week I'm going to replace my water pump and while I was in there I figured I mine as well replace some of the surrounding components. Here's my list. I'm handy but no mechanic so feel free to help/add/change my list in any way.

Water pump
W/P gasket
Spring tensioner
tensioner pulley
tensioner stud
front crank and both cam seals+(front oil seal)
hoses
idler
drive belt
clean MAF sensor
thermostat
window washer res. as it's cracked
and maybe the oxygen sensors

I think that's it. Is there any specific replacement brands to stay away from? I know OEM is the best and you get what you pay for, but I've been collecting new parts as needed off ebay at fraction of the cost of say Lordco or Canadian tire for the SAME parts.

I'm in the Vancouver area if anyone wants to get involved and help me out with this adventure...haha a long shot but it's still going to be fun.

Thanks in advance, and like I said any tips, tricks, advice or thoughts are welcome. (if you know what you're talking about):)

1997 nissan pathfinder xe
181 000 kms
3.3 liter
VG33

no idea when anything was changed, thats why I'm kinda going crazy. That and I love getting my hands dirty!

[Towncivilian]

Change the fuel filter if you haven't yet. I'd also clean the throttle body. May as well change out the PCV valve too, guide here. Go with OEM for the PCV valve for sure as I've read of bad experiences with aftermarket ones, it shouldn't cost very much at the dealer, around $13 CAD.

[nissan canada]

Hey Towncivilian,

Ya I've changed out both the PCV valve and the fuel filter. But both good suggestions. My engine is making a low whinning sound when warmed up and is only there at idol. So I'm on the hunt to take care of it.

Thanks for the quick reply

[ARKQX33V6]

"My engine is making a low whinning sound when warmed up and is only there at idol."
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The EGR valve assembly may be jammed with carbon. While warm and at idle, take a hammer and tap the metal ridges of the EGR while listening for the sound, you may loosen the carbon.

Also check that 3 way idle valve on the driver's fender, it may be stuck. You may have to open the 3 lines and clean out.

Make sure the A/C is off, the pumps make noise under some conditions, A/C is on when defrost is on also.

Diagnosing noises is tough in my office so examine that motor while it idles and try to pinpoint a direction.

A whine could come from:
The air conditioner
The heating fan
Bad bearings or idlers on the timing belt
Air traveling in the conduit to the throttle
Transmission noise
Main cooling fan harmonics

to name a few areas to investigate.