power valve screws

[tommyabward]

Just read an article about certain pathfinder/qx4's 01-04 having an issue where the factory didn't put thread locker on the power valve screws. Apparently, vibration causes the screws come out and effectively destroy the engine. Should I be concerned? Might take it in just to have it checked for peace of mind. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Hawairish]

Yes, this a well documented around the few R50/QX4 forums...one DIY is stickied on this forum. There were a decent number of failures out related to this, but since it wasn't a recall, I don't think there's a VIN range to gauge vulnerability. There was recently a class-action settlement for CA residents who had such failures and paid for repairs or replacement engines within a year/mileage limit. A few more searches ought to get you up to speed on the whole ordeal. Unfortunately, the only way to tell if your PVS's are loose is to pull the top part of the engine off and check...and while you're in there, put some Locktite on them.

[tommyabward]

Thanks. Did some digging and found the DIY. Can't believe there wasn't a recall for this.

[Upgrayedd]

I wouldn't be too worried. Your QX4 is 14 years old and nothing has happened yet. However if you decide to go ahead and check then I would highly suggest you plan to do other maintenance while it's all apart. Like spark plugs, PCV valve, fix any valve cover oil leaks, etc. I checked my power valve screws when I fixed my valve cover oil leak and the screws were all tight so I left them alone.

[barnaclebob]

Instead of "taking it in" go buy a cheap borescope that hooks up to your cell phone and snake it into the 6 intake passages from the throttle body. It will at least tell you if all of the screws are there. If they are all there don't worry about it, if one is missing then you should probably fix those that are left.

[tommyabward]

Had the day off today so I took off the intake because I was paranoid. All screws/butterflys were there ... but loose and easily removed. Glad I took the time. Used the red threadlocker and put it all back together. Changed spark plugs, but not the pcv valve. No leaks. Thanks again!

[yeldogt]

How long did it take?