Gen 1 Xterra 3.5 swap

[Jonnyth3boy]

Hi! I bought an '01 xterra fairly recently and am not so happy with the power. I thought about SC it but it seems to be more of a pain than anything. I was wondering if anyone has successfully swapped out the 3.3 for a 3.5? I know Big-Bird mentioned this as a possible option in another forum and if it's possible I'd rather do that. Hoping to get some insight though. From what I understand a 3.5 from a QX5 uses the same transmission as the 3.3 in my Xterra, so now it's an issue of will it fit with little to no major overhauling of the engine compartment. Any help will be much appreciated.

[Rev_D21]

I have not seen it done but it's possible. Areas I would think problems could arise are the oil pan clearance with the front diff. If you can get a donor vehicle that would be your best bet so you don't have to keep running to the junk yard for every little forgotten part. Welcome to NICO! Let us know how it goes!

[Jonnyth3boy]

From what I can see, the bottom pan is the same shape in both vehicles, except on the 3.5l it's part of the engine. I'm looking for a donor car now.

[Jonnyth3boy]

The more I look through possible swaps the more I'm tempted to try to just shoot for a 5.6l swap. I know that this has been done, probably a pain but I would like any and all input that anyone could provide on this. Concerning the earlier remark on the oil pan. Wouldn't a lift kit take care of most clearance issues from the diff? and a body lift help sink the engine in a little? I'm very serious at attempting this, I imagine in my little xterra, this monster engine would turn it into a do all end all truck. Please I'm seeking serious input.