Yesterday I bought my first Infiniti. It is a 1991 Q45a, and I got it for $2200...a pretty good deal, think.
Unfortunately, when I bought it I didn't really know that operating and maintaining the vehicle would be this complicated. After doing some reading on this sight, I realize that i probably have a lot of work ahead of me. But, just in the couple of days that I have owned the car, I have already fallen in love with it. So, I am committed to making my Q45a the best it can be...so, I will probably need a lot of help.
I read the "stuck" article in the Q45 forum, and there is so much material! I have already recognized a couple of potential issues. But, I think I would like some advice to get started.
I knew that there was a problem with the active suspension when I bought it. The car seems to randomly rise and fall, and the rear suspension feels like it is "bottoming out" when I go over bumps at very slow speeds. I have already contacted Keith about his replacement system. Do I only need to worry about replacing the accumulators, or are there other parts that need to be replaced?
There is a slight vibration when accelerating and decelerating, and is noticeable between 40 and 50 mph. I had a mechanic drive it and he thought it was a rear axle or joint. He thought this would be a relatively inexpensive fix (under $200). Is there another common issue that might be causing this problem?
The car has about 130,000 miles on it. Based on the condition of the engine and interior, I would say the car has been maintened extremely well. But, I don't have any records for past service. So, I have no idea whether a transmission cooler has been installed, whether the timing chain guides have been replaced, or if the injectors have been dealt with.
So, my question is where do I start? Should I get all service done at my local Infiniti dealer? Can anyone give me a sort of prioritized list of things that I should check, repair, or replace? Also, can anyone give me a cost approximation for the priorities? I guesse I am asking for a starting point. If you just bought this car, where would you start?
Unfortunately, I don't have much of a budget. This car was purchased with the intention of being a daily driver, but not as a project car. So, I will have to tackle these issues one at a time as I can afford them.
The car I purchased appears to have been cared for with some love. Both the interior and exterior of the car are in very good condiition for a car of this age. In fact, the interior is nearly flawless. The only real fault are a couple of tears in the leather on the drivers seat. Is this an issue that is repairable? Would this be something I would take to a local shop for a custom refinish of the seat? Or, are there simpler/cheaper fixes?
I know this is a lot of questions, and I am asking the regulars/experts to do a lot of my work for me. But, I doubt I could tackle this without your help. So, I appreciate any help you can give me.
Thanks,
Ross
My first Infiniti...where to start?
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ceningolmo
- Posts: 1763
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- Car: Silver 1991 Q45a & Green 1991 Q45a
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maxnix
- Posts: 22627
- Joined: Mon Jul 22, 2002 8:11 pm
- Car: 1995 Infiniti Q45
1995 Infiniti Q45t
2000 Infiniti Q45
Re: My first Infiniti...where to start? (ceningolmo)
Ross, you came to the right place and you did the right thing, started reading. You have a lot more to do. First, read all posts by Q45tech. Then for the active, all posts by texasoil.ceningolmo wrote:So, my question is where do I start?
Unfortunately, I don't have much of a budget. This car was purchased with the intention of being a daily driver, but not as a project car. So, I will have to tackle these issues one at a time as I can afford them.
The car I purchased appears to have been cared for with some love. Both the interior and exterior of the car are in very good condiition for a car of this age. In fact, the interior is nearly flawless.
The sad news is if you don't have any cash reserves, or access to a shop, or mechnaic skills yourself, you may be up that creek. You see, there are no additional discounts to repairing or maintaining an imported V8 luxury sedan beyond the discounted purchase price you paid for it. The discount is based on the deferred maintenance. However, with a little knowledge and research here, you can learn how to accomplish many of the necessary steps in rehabilitating your car. But expecting it to serve you as a daily driver before it is repaired will probably not prove feasible. In short, you have a project until you get some of the major things done on it.
Do get the dealer performed service history, the FSM and the TSB.
For the seat, I would wait until you can scope the necessary mechanical repairs before investing in a recovered seat.
Good luck reading. We're here to help, but miracles for broken and worn out machines are few and far between. It's going to take some sweat and cash.
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elwesso
- Posts: 30810
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- Car: 94 Infiniti Q45t 5 spd
2007 BMW M Coupe
2007 Infiniti G35 S 6MT - Location: Indiana
- Contact:
Re: My first Infiniti...where to start? (maxnix)
I agree with Brian.. He brings up some good poitns.. just because the car was cheap doesnt mean its going to be cheap to maintain! No free lunch anywhere, boys!!
First order of business is to familiarize yourself with the active suspension. Email me ([email protected]) and ill set you up with a FSM.. The FSM is meant to be read and understood, and that information can be used IN CONJUNCTION with the posts on the forum. maybe you already have a FSM in your car (check in the trunk where the spare tire is)....
Other than that, im going to respond to certain things in your post that caught my eye... please feel free to ask anything else you may want or anything that comes to your mind....
- The accumulators are generally what cause the active suspension to get its ride back.. There are 9 accumulators (you should know this by now), 4 on each shock and 5 elsewhere.... not many other things wear out in the system as long as the fluid is kept fresh, and by now, assume it hasnt been changed.....
Heres the first order of business, before you worry about any of this other crap.. Get the timing guides inspected and make sure thats kosher. If you need to replace the guides, have them toss in a transmission cooler while everything is taken out.... Also assume that no transmission cooler has been installed....
once the guides are set, you can then start replacing EVERY fluid and filter in the car.... PS fluid, active fluid, diff fluid, brake fluid, etc, etc.... new OEM air filter, the list goes on..... this also includes the spark plugs... Then you think about resealing the valve covers if theyre leaking and doing the plenum job....
At this point, you should be pretty much caught up on maintenance.... From here, you can start fooling around with the suspension. Every bushing will need replaced, especially the front. upper links, tension rods, sway bar bushings, strut mounts, etc... Then the accumulators can be replaced.... proabbyl best to start with the 4 main ones, then move on to something else and save the other 5 for later...
now that the car has fresh fluids, all maintenance is caught up, the suspesion is good, now you can start dealing with brakes and tires... I wont go into much detail here because its all self explanitory....
after you get ALL that done, then you can start doing more nit picky things, like the interior stuff, and things of that nature.....
Just to let you know, this is the order that i did everything on my Q45.... I dont recommend doing anything that I wouldnt do !!!!!
Of course, all of this assumes that any and all other problems have been addressed, like MAF issues, fuel pump, injectors, etc..
one place to start would be to see how the injectors are doing. Go buy yourself a cheap VOM at walmart, and use the tutorial on Q45.org.... That will tell you if you have any bad injectors...
regarding the vibration, it is most likely the driveshaft, i think... I got a rebuilt one from power train industries out of california and i love it.....
Check and see how well the oil has been changed by taking off the oil filler cap (passenger side valve cover).... look inside with a small flashlight and it should just be a slight brownish color, nothing dark or black....
one thing i feel that i have proven is that you CAN maintain a Q45 to spec with a low budget if you use our sponsors for parts and DIY things...
First order of business is to familiarize yourself with the active suspension. Email me ([email protected]) and ill set you up with a FSM.. The FSM is meant to be read and understood, and that information can be used IN CONJUNCTION with the posts on the forum. maybe you already have a FSM in your car (check in the trunk where the spare tire is)....
Other than that, im going to respond to certain things in your post that caught my eye... please feel free to ask anything else you may want or anything that comes to your mind....
- The accumulators are generally what cause the active suspension to get its ride back.. There are 9 accumulators (you should know this by now), 4 on each shock and 5 elsewhere.... not many other things wear out in the system as long as the fluid is kept fresh, and by now, assume it hasnt been changed.....
Heres the first order of business, before you worry about any of this other crap.. Get the timing guides inspected and make sure thats kosher. If you need to replace the guides, have them toss in a transmission cooler while everything is taken out.... Also assume that no transmission cooler has been installed....
once the guides are set, you can then start replacing EVERY fluid and filter in the car.... PS fluid, active fluid, diff fluid, brake fluid, etc, etc.... new OEM air filter, the list goes on..... this also includes the spark plugs... Then you think about resealing the valve covers if theyre leaking and doing the plenum job....
At this point, you should be pretty much caught up on maintenance.... From here, you can start fooling around with the suspension. Every bushing will need replaced, especially the front. upper links, tension rods, sway bar bushings, strut mounts, etc... Then the accumulators can be replaced.... proabbyl best to start with the 4 main ones, then move on to something else and save the other 5 for later...
now that the car has fresh fluids, all maintenance is caught up, the suspesion is good, now you can start dealing with brakes and tires... I wont go into much detail here because its all self explanitory....
after you get ALL that done, then you can start doing more nit picky things, like the interior stuff, and things of that nature.....
Just to let you know, this is the order that i did everything on my Q45.... I dont recommend doing anything that I wouldnt do !!!!!
Of course, all of this assumes that any and all other problems have been addressed, like MAF issues, fuel pump, injectors, etc..
one place to start would be to see how the injectors are doing. Go buy yourself a cheap VOM at walmart, and use the tutorial on Q45.org.... That will tell you if you have any bad injectors...
regarding the vibration, it is most likely the driveshaft, i think... I got a rebuilt one from power train industries out of california and i love it.....
Check and see how well the oil has been changed by taking off the oil filler cap (passenger side valve cover).... look inside with a small flashlight and it should just be a slight brownish color, nothing dark or black....
one thing i feel that i have proven is that you CAN maintain a Q45 to spec with a low budget if you use our sponsors for parts and DIY things...
Re: My first Infiniti...where to start? (ceningolmo)
Welcome to NICO! Wes and Brian have definitely got you started in the right direction, and props on doing the reading before asking any questions that end up getting the "use the search function" answer.
The inevitable comment: Get some pictures up!
The inevitable comment: Get some pictures up!
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ceningolmo
- Posts: 1763
- Joined: Fri Oct 14, 2005 2:37 pm
- Car: Silver 1991 Q45a & Green 1991 Q45a
Re: My first Infiniti...where to start? (elwesso)
First, thank you Brian, Wes, et al. The information you gave me will be a huge help. And, it is somewhat comforting to know that I have a resource in the future.
Wes, I was able to locate my FSM in the trunk per your directions. I will begin to trudge through some of the technical information as I have time. I am technically inclined, but have zero experience on automobiles. So, while electrical/mechanical DIY projects don't generally frighten me, I am not generally in a big hurry to take on said projects. So, the restoration and maintenance of this vehicle should be an interesting challenge.
Based on what I have read so far, I think a trip to the Infiniti dealer for an oil change and a copy of any service on the vehicle is my first project. Hopefully, using the information from the dealership, I will be able get a little background on the way this vehicle was maintained. This information should help me determine the priority of future projects. Also, this car has been a 1 owner car and was purchased from the dealership nearest to me. With some luck, the people at the dealership will be familiar with this particular vehicle.
After this, I think the first thing to be dealt with is switching out the timing chain guides and the transmission cooler per your recommendation. This seems to be the one thing that, if neglected, is likely to kill my car before I even start the project. So, I guess this is priority #1.
On q45.org, I saw some of the pictorial walk-throughs of the process. And, this is definately beyond what I am comfortable trying to tackle. So, I guess my next questions pertain to the specifics of the completing this particular project. I looked up the parts kit through http://www.everythinginfiniti.com (http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/ ... logid=3221) This site lists the kit (All you need to complete the timing chain guide replacement on the 1990-1993 Q45.) at $361. Am I better off buying the parts this way, then taking them to the Infiniti dealer for installation? Or, would you recommend finding a local technician to do the work for me? If so, do you have a source to find a reputable local tech? And, what is a fair estimate for the labor? I don't want to get ripped off. The other option, of course, is to take it to T3 in Atlanta. But, that leaves me with some significant logistical issues, as I live in Michigan. Would it be cheaper to ship to them, then fly down and drive the car back?
Also, since I am asking a million questions, what other parts are a mandatory fix at the time I am having this project completed. Wes, I know you mentioned the transmission cooler. And, from what I can tell the transmission cooler is relatively inexpensive. So, I am planning to tacklet that one while everthing is apart. What about the timing chain itself? I have read some conflicting information on this. I read one or two posts that say it best to replace it since the engine is already apart anyway. On the other hand, I have read that the timing chain should last the lifetime of the car and not to worry about it. Do you guys have a strong opinion one way or the other?
After an email from Keith, I realize I can put off the repairs to the active for a little while. It needs to be fixed. But, so long as I am gentle with the car and don't use any rough roads I can nurse it along until I can afford to replace it.
Again, any and all help is appreciated. And, thanks for the welcomes from everyone!
BTW, nchopp, I will post some pictures after I give it a good thorough cleaning. I thought it was pretty clean and shiny... until I read your post on detailed car care! Mine is the same color as yours... but, until I spend the recommmended 7-8 hours on it, I am not posting pictures.
Ross
Wes, I was able to locate my FSM in the trunk per your directions. I will begin to trudge through some of the technical information as I have time. I am technically inclined, but have zero experience on automobiles. So, while electrical/mechanical DIY projects don't generally frighten me, I am not generally in a big hurry to take on said projects. So, the restoration and maintenance of this vehicle should be an interesting challenge.
Based on what I have read so far, I think a trip to the Infiniti dealer for an oil change and a copy of any service on the vehicle is my first project. Hopefully, using the information from the dealership, I will be able get a little background on the way this vehicle was maintained. This information should help me determine the priority of future projects. Also, this car has been a 1 owner car and was purchased from the dealership nearest to me. With some luck, the people at the dealership will be familiar with this particular vehicle.
After this, I think the first thing to be dealt with is switching out the timing chain guides and the transmission cooler per your recommendation. This seems to be the one thing that, if neglected, is likely to kill my car before I even start the project. So, I guess this is priority #1.
On q45.org, I saw some of the pictorial walk-throughs of the process. And, this is definately beyond what I am comfortable trying to tackle. So, I guess my next questions pertain to the specifics of the completing this particular project. I looked up the parts kit through http://www.everythinginfiniti.com (http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/ ... logid=3221) This site lists the kit (All you need to complete the timing chain guide replacement on the 1990-1993 Q45.) at $361. Am I better off buying the parts this way, then taking them to the Infiniti dealer for installation? Or, would you recommend finding a local technician to do the work for me? If so, do you have a source to find a reputable local tech? And, what is a fair estimate for the labor? I don't want to get ripped off. The other option, of course, is to take it to T3 in Atlanta. But, that leaves me with some significant logistical issues, as I live in Michigan. Would it be cheaper to ship to them, then fly down and drive the car back?
Also, since I am asking a million questions, what other parts are a mandatory fix at the time I am having this project completed. Wes, I know you mentioned the transmission cooler. And, from what I can tell the transmission cooler is relatively inexpensive. So, I am planning to tacklet that one while everthing is apart. What about the timing chain itself? I have read some conflicting information on this. I read one or two posts that say it best to replace it since the engine is already apart anyway. On the other hand, I have read that the timing chain should last the lifetime of the car and not to worry about it. Do you guys have a strong opinion one way or the other?
After an email from Keith, I realize I can put off the repairs to the active for a little while. It needs to be fixed. But, so long as I am gentle with the car and don't use any rough roads I can nurse it along until I can afford to replace it.
Again, any and all help is appreciated. And, thanks for the welcomes from everyone!
BTW, nchopp, I will post some pictures after I give it a good thorough cleaning. I thought it was pretty clean and shiny... until I read your post on detailed car care! Mine is the same color as yours... but, until I spend the recommmended 7-8 hours on it, I am not posting pictures.
Ross
Ross,
Wes and Brian ( and by now Keith) have already given you a lot of info of te lore of Q45..
An additional remark to answert your question:
Yes Its probaly best if you order teh parts kit and then have local guy install it.
The infiniti dealer doesnt have a seperate job just for timing chain guides.
his book only lists a complete chain job which includes the guides but is MUCH more expensive.
If you are lucky you may find an Infiniti delaer willing to doiscopunt but this is not likely as the recent sales successes have outpaced tech supply a bit and shop time is scarce enough tehre is little incentive to discount.
A good import shop can do it, if you give them the parts.
Fred..
Wes and Brian ( and by now Keith) have already given you a lot of info of te lore of Q45..
An additional remark to answert your question:
Yes Its probaly best if you order teh parts kit and then have local guy install it.
The infiniti dealer doesnt have a seperate job just for timing chain guides.
his book only lists a complete chain job which includes the guides but is MUCH more expensive.
If you are lucky you may find an Infiniti delaer willing to doiscopunt but this is not likely as the recent sales successes have outpaced tech supply a bit and shop time is scarce enough tehre is little incentive to discount.
A good import shop can do it, if you give them the parts.
Fred..
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elwesso
- Posts: 30810
- Joined: Sun Feb 23, 2003 4:52 pm
- Car: 94 Infiniti Q45t 5 spd
2007 BMW M Coupe
2007 Infiniti G35 S 6MT - Location: Indiana
- Contact:
Re: (PalmerWMD)
... or why not do it yourself, i mean come on, its just nuts and bolts... Take it apart, and put itback together all weird like... In all honesty though, you are more likely to do a better job, than is the mechanic who is trying to beat the clock... Even if this is your first time doing it on the car, you will likely take your time and do anything necessary to do it right. The guy working on your car will do it as fast as he possibly can.. I get very nervous when people do things to my car, and i tend NEVER to trust anyone.... Its so hard to find service around here, especially ones that let you watch like a mother hen!
Ross, your getting the idea here.... Just to let you know, so much can be understood from the FSM... I read it cover to cover at least 3-4 times... Even if you dont really understand what your reading, things will start tocome back as you continue reading here...
Dont be surprised if the infiniti dealer doesnt have any service records...
Since your in michigan, im willing to help you do the guides if your interested, of course I dont charge anything.... Im just a hop skip and a jump away in Angola, IN (right off I69)
Send me an email, im sure we can work something out!!!!
Ross, your getting the idea here.... Just to let you know, so much can be understood from the FSM... I read it cover to cover at least 3-4 times... Even if you dont really understand what your reading, things will start tocome back as you continue reading here...
Dont be surprised if the infiniti dealer doesnt have any service records...
Since your in michigan, im willing to help you do the guides if your interested, of course I dont charge anything.... Im just a hop skip and a jump away in Angola, IN (right off I69)
Send me an email, im sure we can work something out!!!!
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AlabamaDan
- Posts: 1750
- Joined: Fri Aug 02, 2002 12:37 pm
- Car: 2015 Infiniti Q70
1998 Infiniti QX4
Welcome.
Start with the small stuff and you'll be fixing it all yourself soon enough. I'm getting there. Changing the fluids should be simple enough, and a good confidence builder. Brakes are easy enough, etc....
Just start tinkering with the Q and you'll love it even more.
BTW, I agree with Wes that you can't trust anyone else to work on your car. The last time the brakes were "replaced" on my Q was before I bought and they just didn't change the pads on one wheel. Ended up costing me some extra money for a new rotor.
Start with the small stuff and you'll be fixing it all yourself soon enough. I'm getting there. Changing the fluids should be simple enough, and a good confidence builder. Brakes are easy enough, etc....
Just start tinkering with the Q and you'll love it even more.
BTW, I agree with Wes that you can't trust anyone else to work on your car. The last time the brakes were "replaced" on my Q was before I bought and they just didn't change the pads on one wheel. Ended up costing me some extra money for a new rotor.
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ceningolmo
- Posts: 1763
- Joined: Fri Oct 14, 2005 2:37 pm
- Car: Silver 1991 Q45a & Green 1991 Q45a
Re: (elwesso)
Well, Wes, I am not sure how serious you where about that offer, but I would definately take you up on it. Of course, I wouldn't expect you to just do the work. I would accept your help on a mentor type basis, and would insist that I do my share of the work. And, I certainly couldn't let you do it free of charge. You tell me what a fair price is for your time and I will gladly pay it.
Please contact me off list - [email protected] - if you don't mind. We can set up a time that is convenient for you.
danny, I appreciate the words of encouragment. It isn't that I don't want to know how to do this type of work. Its just that I haven't had anyone around who has been able to teach me. And, to be honest, mechanics are not generally falling all over themselves to teach me how to do their job. ;-)
But, like you said, start small. So, that is exactly what I will do. And, with some help from the experts, I will try not to break my car!
Anyway... thanks for the help and encouragement from everyone.
Ross
Please contact me off list - [email protected] - if you don't mind. We can set up a time that is convenient for you.
danny, I appreciate the words of encouragment. It isn't that I don't want to know how to do this type of work. Its just that I haven't had anyone around who has been able to teach me. And, to be honest, mechanics are not generally falling all over themselves to teach me how to do their job. ;-)
But, like you said, start small. So, that is exactly what I will do. And, with some help from the experts, I will try not to break my car!
Anyway... thanks for the help and encouragement from everyone.
Ross
Re: (ceningolmo)
Wes is very serious. I was in a bind and Wes has greatly helped me out and continues to do so. If you had anyone do it near you i would have to say take it to him and youll be set. To respond to your questions of other maintanence, besides the guides and fluids i would check on your fuel pump as well. If you hear a humming from the back like an angry swarm of bees then you should prolly get that done. You can do that yourself. Q45.org has a write up on it and there are numerous posts of others accomplishing this as well. I need to do this also. If your worried about not knowing anything you will learn alot just from being around and talking to Wes, he is incrediably knowledgeable and I pick his brain constantly and have learned a great deal. Take him up on his offer and get on your way to getting back one hell of a machine. Good luck and Welcome to NICO.
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maxnix
- Posts: 22627
- Joined: Mon Jul 22, 2002 8:11 pm
- Car: 1995 Infiniti Q45
1995 Infiniti Q45t
2000 Infiniti Q45
Re: (PalmerWMD)
1.) Get the dealer performed service history for your vehicle.
2.) Dealer will insist on replacing the timing chains also, thus increasing the labor cost substantially.
3.) Don't drive it until you have done the timing chain guides and whatever else has been affected by their failure. The next turn of the key may be your last with that particular engine. One never knows.
Modified by maxnix at 8:24 AM 10/18/2005
2.) Dealer will insist on replacing the timing chains also, thus increasing the labor cost substantially.
3.) Don't drive it until you have done the timing chain guides and whatever else has been affected by their failure. The next turn of the key may be your last with that particular engine. One never knows.
Modified by maxnix at 8:24 AM 10/18/2005
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elwesso
- Posts: 30810
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- Car: 94 Infiniti Q45t 5 spd
2007 BMW M Coupe
2007 Infiniti G35 S 6MT - Location: Indiana
- Contact:
Re: (maxnix)
Where is Jenison, MI anyway???
Ill send you an email when i get home this afternoon, if i dont fire me an email and ill get you back (i tend to forget things, especially after a long drive in the Q, really clears ones mind.)
We'll get something figured out, and Im not joking......
Ill send you an email when i get home this afternoon, if i dont fire me an email and ill get you back (i tend to forget things, especially after a long drive in the Q, really clears ones mind.)
We'll get something figured out, and Im not joking......
Re: (ceningolmo)
You're lucky that these offers are on the table for you. I bought my Q with a ton of miles on it and have just about done 3/4 of the work to it myself. The other 1/4 was very expensive(but worth it) and done at an import shop. My Q, like yours, is an early active Q and I fell in love right away. The car was my daily driver and I only had 1 day of down time in my first year of doing all that work on her. I struggled not knowing how good a job I was doing until the Mech's told me I did just fine.
Do what you can yourself and if Wes offers take him up on it because it's well worth it! You've got a great plan with only limited funds so keep prioritizing and knock stuff off as you go. Guides are first so start gathering parts.
Avoid used injectors, knock sensors, O2 sensors and fuel pumps. Most other stuff you can buy used by people here. So start saving money and you'll have 2 Q's before you know it!
Read, read, read!
red
Do what you can yourself and if Wes offers take him up on it because it's well worth it! You've got a great plan with only limited funds so keep prioritizing and knock stuff off as you go. Guides are first so start gathering parts.
Avoid used injectors, knock sensors, O2 sensors and fuel pumps. Most other stuff you can buy used by people here. So start saving money and you'll have 2 Q's before you know it!
Read, read, read!
red
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ceningolmo
- Posts: 1763
- Joined: Fri Oct 14, 2005 2:37 pm
- Car: Silver 1991 Q45a & Green 1991 Q45a
Re: (elwesso)
For those of you keeping track at home...
Wes volunteered to do the timing chain guide job for me this weekend. And, he had me buy a fuil filter, transmission cooler, and a set of belts. Along with the series of fluid flushes he said he would complete, I think he is planning to get a lot accomplished this weekend!
I just wanted to make sure I posted this so that he gets credit for being the nicest, most helpful guy around. I am not sure if he is just trying build up Karma points or what... but, I am awful grateful anyway.
Ross
Wes volunteered to do the timing chain guide job for me this weekend. And, he had me buy a fuil filter, transmission cooler, and a set of belts. Along with the series of fluid flushes he said he would complete, I think he is planning to get a lot accomplished this weekend!
I just wanted to make sure I posted this so that he gets credit for being the nicest, most helpful guy around. I am not sure if he is just trying build up Karma points or what... but, I am awful grateful anyway.
Ross
Re: (nchopp)
Ross,
Any chance your doing that job tomorrow? I'm facing the same job on my car and only a couple hours away. If I can clear it with the wife, maybe I can come out and help you guy's, assuming I wouldnt be in the way. Let me know
Any chance your doing that job tomorrow? I'm facing the same job on my car and only a couple hours away. If I can clear it with the wife, maybe I can come out and help you guy's, assuming I wouldnt be in the way. Let me know
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elwesso
- Posts: 30810
- Joined: Sun Feb 23, 2003 4:52 pm
- Car: 94 Infiniti Q45t 5 spd
2007 BMW M Coupe
2007 Infiniti G35 S 6MT - Location: Indiana
- Contact:
Re: (nchopp)
I havent finished anything yet!!!!! NO guarntees until its done....
Ross im giving you a call shortly...
Ross im giving you a call shortly...
Re: (EnQusiast)
Hey Ross,
Just had lunch with the wife were she promptly nixed any thought of me making a trip to help you guy's out. Seems there's something about a soccer game tomorrow.
Anyway, good luck with it! I'm looking forward to hearing about it next week.
Just had lunch with the wife were she promptly nixed any thought of me making a trip to help you guy's out. Seems there's something about a soccer game tomorrow.
Anyway, good luck with it! I'm looking forward to hearing about it next week.
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elwesso
- Posts: 30810
- Joined: Sun Feb 23, 2003 4:52 pm
- Car: 94 Infiniti Q45t 5 spd
2007 BMW M Coupe
2007 Infiniti G35 S 6MT - Location: Indiana
- Contact:
Re: (EnQusiast)
EDIT: Im an idiot...
Man, you should come out next weekend..... to the indy meet.....
Man, you should come out next weekend..... to the indy meet.....
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elwesso
- Posts: 30810
- Joined: Sun Feb 23, 2003 4:52 pm
- Car: 94 Infiniti Q45t 5 spd
2007 BMW M Coupe
2007 Infiniti G35 S 6MT - Location: Indiana
- Contact:
Re: (Jesda)
Some people get drunk all weekend, I chose to do chain guides for the weekend...
However, I end up winning because I can do both!!!!!!
However, I end up winning because I can do both!!!!!!
Re: (elwesso)
I was already spying that event. but, it's going to have to wait until next year. I just informed the wife of a hunting trip next month. If I tell her I'm taking next weekend to go to Indy......well, that would go over like a turd in a punchbowl.
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elwesso
- Posts: 30810
- Joined: Sun Feb 23, 2003 4:52 pm
- Car: 94 Infiniti Q45t 5 spd
2007 BMW M Coupe
2007 Infiniti G35 S 6MT - Location: Indiana
- Contact:
Re: (EnQusiast)
Well then add some hard liquor, mix it in real good, and dont tell anyone......EnQusiast wrote:I was already spying that event. but, it's going to have to wait until next year. I just informed the wife of a hunting trip next month. If I tell her I'm taking next weekend to go to Indy......well, that would go over like a turd in a punchbowl.
MAKE IT HAPPEN... We need Qs there!! Everyone gets tired of seeing my Q!!!
Re: (elwesso)
Wes if it really means that much to you i could rock the mad tyte JDM silver/crimson/bondo. and the bad suspension dirty interior broken back light and brake dust encrusted rims... what do you think?
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elwesso
- Posts: 30810
- Joined: Sun Feb 23, 2003 4:52 pm
- Car: 94 Infiniti Q45t 5 spd
2007 BMW M Coupe
2007 Infiniti G35 S 6MT - Location: Indiana
- Contact:
Re: (5seryan)
Your coming and if your not there with your Q its no biggie...
Its not about the cars, its about the people (who just so happen to be cool AND have nice cars)
Its not about the cars, its about the people (who just so happen to be cool AND have nice cars)
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ceningolmo
- Posts: 1763
- Joined: Fri Oct 14, 2005 2:37 pm
- Car: Silver 1991 Q45a & Green 1991 Q45a
Re: (elwesso)
Well, the weekend is over and I feel guilty for taking advantage of Wes and his generosity. But, I think he made some progress and I think I have a much better understanding of what I have ahead of me.
So... here is the list that The Wes provided for me.
Stuff that is done:1. transmission flush - Wes said that not everyone approves of his method. But, it seemed to work. So, I am happy.2. Oil hood hinges3. Tear engine apart in attempt to find out whether guides have already replaced. - I think Wes is still having some doubts about whether the guides were actually replaced or not. Hopefully the dealer service history will tell us one way or the other.4. Replace all belts5. Replace oil filter6. Oil change - Completed my first oil change on this car. Well... I didn't complete it. Wes did. I just stood there and tried not to look like an idiot while he did all the work. Though, he did let me pour all the oil in after he emptied the engine. So, I tried to complete this simple task without spilling oil all over myself or my engine. Sadly, I failed on both counts.7. NICO stickers for windows - most important thing on the list is complete!
Stuff that is next on this list to be done1. Injector #3 is toast. - Hopefully I can figure out a way to replace this without lifting the plenum. For that matter, I am just hoping I can figure out how to replace it at all.2. Fuel pump needs to be replaced.3. Brakes need immediate attention (pads and rotors).4. Accumulators - this will be just the start of the process of bringing back the active.
Other stuff on The Wes' list1. Align the headlights - hopefully I can figure this one out on my own.2. Replace the dust boots on the shocks/actuators3. Power steering flush - After Wes showed me how to do this, I think I can figure this one out.4. Active pump sounds like it is groaning - I am sure this will be a part of the process of bringing the active back to life.5. Door hinges are loose on drivers door.6. Check and fill fluids on Active.7. Active self diagnosis does not appear to be operational.8. Replace spark plugs9. Check codes on ECU10. Active height switch does not appear to be working properly. This may be related to other issues with Active.11. O2 sensors need to be checked.
Stuff that was on The Wes' list that I failed to ask him about1. Suspension rubber - not sure what this means. I am sure Wes will enlighten me.2. Possible hood repaint - did this mean the hood was repainted, or that it needs to be repainted?3. HVAC control light is out - I thought all the stuff on the HVAC control unit was working properly. Perhaps I just don't know enough to know it isn't working.4. AC Idler - not sure what this means either.
Ok... I think that is all. This is a significant list... at least, it seems like it. For a guy who is trying to bring a nice luxury car back to being a reliable daily driver, this seems like a lot of stuff. Particularly on my budget.
But, Wes practically worked pro-bono this weekend. I gave him a little money as a token gesture... as Wes said, "Just give me what you think it is worth". Well, what I think it was worth, and what I could afford to pay him were in vastly different financial districts. Sadly, I couldn't afford what it was worth. I am hoping my meager budget doesn't misrepresent my appreciation.
So... here is the list that The Wes provided for me.
Stuff that is done:1. transmission flush - Wes said that not everyone approves of his method. But, it seemed to work. So, I am happy.2. Oil hood hinges3. Tear engine apart in attempt to find out whether guides have already replaced. - I think Wes is still having some doubts about whether the guides were actually replaced or not. Hopefully the dealer service history will tell us one way or the other.4. Replace all belts5. Replace oil filter6. Oil change - Completed my first oil change on this car. Well... I didn't complete it. Wes did. I just stood there and tried not to look like an idiot while he did all the work. Though, he did let me pour all the oil in after he emptied the engine. So, I tried to complete this simple task without spilling oil all over myself or my engine. Sadly, I failed on both counts.7. NICO stickers for windows - most important thing on the list is complete!
Stuff that is next on this list to be done1. Injector #3 is toast. - Hopefully I can figure out a way to replace this without lifting the plenum. For that matter, I am just hoping I can figure out how to replace it at all.2. Fuel pump needs to be replaced.3. Brakes need immediate attention (pads and rotors).4. Accumulators - this will be just the start of the process of bringing back the active.
Other stuff on The Wes' list1. Align the headlights - hopefully I can figure this one out on my own.2. Replace the dust boots on the shocks/actuators3. Power steering flush - After Wes showed me how to do this, I think I can figure this one out.4. Active pump sounds like it is groaning - I am sure this will be a part of the process of bringing the active back to life.5. Door hinges are loose on drivers door.6. Check and fill fluids on Active.7. Active self diagnosis does not appear to be operational.8. Replace spark plugs9. Check codes on ECU10. Active height switch does not appear to be working properly. This may be related to other issues with Active.11. O2 sensors need to be checked.
Stuff that was on The Wes' list that I failed to ask him about1. Suspension rubber - not sure what this means. I am sure Wes will enlighten me.2. Possible hood repaint - did this mean the hood was repainted, or that it needs to be repainted?3. HVAC control light is out - I thought all the stuff on the HVAC control unit was working properly. Perhaps I just don't know enough to know it isn't working.4. AC Idler - not sure what this means either.
Ok... I think that is all. This is a significant list... at least, it seems like it. For a guy who is trying to bring a nice luxury car back to being a reliable daily driver, this seems like a lot of stuff. Particularly on my budget.
But, Wes practically worked pro-bono this weekend. I gave him a little money as a token gesture... as Wes said, "Just give me what you think it is worth". Well, what I think it was worth, and what I could afford to pay him were in vastly different financial districts. Sadly, I couldn't afford what it was worth. I am hoping my meager budget doesn't misrepresent my appreciation.