How-to's for transmission cooler and oil filter replacement

[mpoyner]

Guys, got a few things together over the weekend to start the slow process of updating all the fluids, main problem areas, etc. I will be doing things weekly, instead of all at once, because of cash flow.

First of all, the Traction Control was unplugged under the hood, for some reason. I said "what's this wire that's unplugged?", plugged it in, fired 'er up and the slip and TCS lights went off. It seems to work perfect.

Now, on to my invariable newby questions :rolleyes :

1. should I leave the TCS on all the time? If so, what are instances where it should be turned off? I've never had this on a vehicle before. Also, this only affects the rear wheels, correct?

2. How in the world do you get your arm into get the oil filter off? Is there something in the way that can be easily disconnected? I could get my fingers on it, but not with enough leverage to remove it.

3. Anybody created an online guide, forum thread detailing how to install a transmission cooler?

Thanks,Matt

[911/Q45]

Leave the TCS on. Get a wrench that fits over the end of the filter, they're cheap.

[elwesso]

1. I leave mine on most of the time, except when i want to powerslide or burn out!!! Other than that, might as well leave it on...... And yes, it is only for the rear wheels...... If you ever get stuck in the snow, its probably best to turn it off when you are trying to get out!!!

2. Personally, I dont have a clue how to get to it, but DONT GO FROM ABOVE...... You must go from underneath........ I dont change my own oil, i let someone with tools and a lift mess with it........

3. Have you done a search.......? If not, you could be the man!! As I hear, its not that hard.......

[DAEDALUS]

I have a how-to available. Email me.Oil filters should not be on so tight that they require a lot of wrenching to remove. I change my own oil, and usually I can get the old filter off without a wrench. You can go in from the top--some prefer it--but there's more risk with damaging an electrical connection, and you have to remove components.

[Article Manager]

Robert. Could you e-mail me that how-to for addition to articles?

Thanks,

Nick

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[AZhitman]

An $11 coupon for an oil change, a case of Mobil 1 in the trunk, a genuine Nissan filter from Joe and a $10 for the grease monkey is all the effort I will EVER expend in changing the oil on my Q.

It's just not worth it.

[elwesso]

I agree....... I pay a local shop that the whole family (consequently who is doing my shocks too, this week!!!) goes to, and it only costs like 20.......

[fxjackso]

But, using someone else to change the oil is only good if the someone looks around under the car while the cover is off- leaking trans cool lines, torn rack boot, fraying sway bar bushings, worn upper links?

Is Jiffy Lube qualified to be your eyes every 90 days?

[maxnix]

What have members done to cap the now unused lines into the radiator for the stock transmission fluid heat exchangers?

Just left them open?

[AZhitman]

But, using someone else to change the oil is only good if the someone looks around under the car while the cover is off- leaking trans cool lines, torn rack boot, fraying sway bar bushings, worn upper links?

Is Jiffy Lube qualified to be your eyes every 90 days?

Actually, I do that while she's on the lift. I won't go to a shop that doesn't allow me in the work area.

Brian - I used rubber tubing caps I had laying around. Not sure what they're for, but they work.

I had them on the bypass fittings on my Civic (coolant circulates thru the TB for cold startup).