Is there a gasket between Thermostat Housing & Thermostat Cover?

[cunking]

Need to replace the thermostat on my 96 Pathfinder XE (R50). Is there a gasket that goes between the housing and the cover? Or do you just use sealant? I don't see a gasket display in the Nissan diagram (do gaskets corresponding part numbers show up in Nissan diagrams??)

One Nissan agency mechanic says there is a gasket that comes with the MAIN THERMOSTAT HOUSING - but I am only replacing the THERMOSTAT HOUSING COVER.

A different Nissan agency mechanic says there is no gasket and just sealant is used to create the seal.

Any help would be appreciated!!

[VStar650CL]

The FSM calls for using Nissan Liquid Gasket (Gray Death), but regular RTV will work okay as long as the mating surfaces are clean. There's no gasket.

[cunking]

Thanks for the quick reply Vstar560CL!

I just found a HAYNES MANUAL video on youtube: " Nissan Xterra (00-04), Pathfinder (96-04) or Frontier pick-up (98-04) - Replace the thermostat " ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chpqcH5lpaw&t=312s ) At 4:02 it shows a gasket being used during the replacement. This is so confusing. I don't want mess up after such an involved repair. Can you expand on your comments?

[VStar650CL]

There's lots of BS on the internet. See LC-11 here, straight from the Nissan horse's mouth:
https://www.nicoclub.com/service-manual ... 6%2Flc.pdf

[cunking]

Hello VStar560CL,

Again, thanks very much for responding and clarifying!

The Factory Service Manual page is super clear.

I will be doing a lot of work on my Pathfinder to bring her back her glory days.
I have the vehicle in Mexico where I live much of the year. Hopefully you'll have
more great insight to assist me when additional doubts come up.

Best Regards!

[cunking]

Hello again VStar560CL,

Sorry to bother you again so soon after you solved my first question.

I will also need to replace the Engine Coolant Outlet Flange (Outlet - Water) part #: 11060-21V00. It was the source of the coolant leak - see the image attached.

So I have the same question. Is there a gasket to seal the flange to the engine - or is this another instance when only sealant is used?

I found a specific sealant at AutoZone: Permatex Blue RTV Silicone Water Pump Thermostat Gasket Maker 0.5 oz. I am assuming this is the sealant I should use on the two locations.

Appreciate expertise.

Best Regards.

[VStar650CL]

That sealer should work fine. The water outlet also uses sealer, no gasket. You can find the diagram and torque specs on EM-6 here:
https://www.nicoclub.com/service-manual ... 6%2Fem.pdf