Make a Maxima SE transaxle fit a Q45 motor

[Audi_O_Phile]

Hello there, I am in search of a person who knows a lot about Nissansand Infinitis, specifically, whether the 5 speed transaxle from a 89-94Maxima SE can be mounted to a motor from a 90-96 Q45, and if so, whatsort of problems I might run into. Is there anyone that you could point me to who might be able to help me with this? My intention is to midengine a smaller car for a competition later this year, and a friend suggested trying this as a powerplant and drivetrain. The plan would be to purchase a wrecked Q45 I have already spotted, and source the transaxle and front suspension from a wrecking yard to graft into the back seat of another car.

Yes, I already know I am crazy, but the process of putting a Chevy 305 with a Camaro 5 speed and front and rear suspension from a 240sx (all going into my Honda hatchback) together is going so well, I want to build another!

[TheKon]

Yes, I already know I am crazy, but the process of putting a Chevy 305 with a Camaro 5 speed and front and rear suspension from a 240sx (all going into my Honda hatchback) together is going so well, I want to build another!

Don't take this the wrong way but I'd hate to feel the poor weight distribution in that car....but with your other issue I'm sure if it doesn't just bolt on....they make an adapter plate...because they make one to fit the RB26DETT to the VG30DETT transmission...so I'm sure you can find one...hell they make a plate to mate an LS1 motor to my impala's transmission...now thats just stupid. (My transmission is very well known to be a piece of GM Engineering crap.)

[MinisterofDOOM]

That transmission is the RS5F50A or RS5F50V (A is open dif, V is VLSD). This transmission was used in several Nissans with several different engines (CA, KA, VG, VE, VQ...) It was actually used in the Maxima from 1985 clear until 2001 (after which the Maxima switched to a 6 speed manual).Off the top of my head, I know that there were at least 2 different bell housings for that transmission during that period (I think it was actually 3, one for the VG, one for the VE, and one for the VQ; but again, this is off the top of my head). I don't know if any of those match up to the VH45 (the Q45 motor) bolt pattern, though. I'll see what info I can dig up.

I highly suggest creating a thread about your project in the VH forum here.There are some VERY knowledgeable members who have some impressive projects going there, and they will be able to answer any questions you'll have about the VH (and I'm sure they'll be interested in hearing more about your project as well). One of those members has made adapter plates to mate the VH to the 300ZX 5 speed.

Welcome to NICO, by the way! I'm looking forward to hearing more about your project.