QX4 Engine help..please...

A forum for the legendary Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX4.
AirtekHVAC
Posts: 8
Joined: Tue Jun 21, 2005 2:37 pm
Car: '99 QX4

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Hi all..a newbie to this forum...got a problem with my '99 QX4.

It developed a horrible "knock" while going down the interstate...it actually sounded like all my valves lost oil all at once. I immeadiately pulled over, and then my oil light came on. The valves were making one hell of a racket. I cut it off, and let it cool...I checked the oil, and it was fine. Started it, and had the same noises..very loud. Called a wrecker.

The next day, my mechanic called and said that the motor appeared to have a bad rod, near the front, and it appears to have spun a bearing...

Well, I went to listen to it, and concurred. He said best bet was to replace the engine..I can't afford a new one, so I am looking at junkyard engines...found plenty...but.....

My question..since I am pulling the motor out anyway, can I not "upgrade"?

What engines will fit without any major modifications? the 3.5? The supercharged Xterra? It is a 9/98 production date..for some reason, it makes a difference? Why won't other years VG33E fit? Why won't the 3.5 litre work?

Any help / suggestions would be fantastic...Please help, I have only a week or two to find a motor, so if I can "upgrade" I would like to. Besides..I am now driving the mini-van while my wife enjoys her new Sequoia...I want my QX4 back...wahhh!


NISTECH
Posts: 10585
Joined: Sun May 25, 2003 4:17 am

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Both the 3.5 and 3.3 er would require substantial mods. chances are you could buy the replacement 33e for cheaper then upgrading the engine in it. Both the other engines would require complete harnesses and ecms to operate properly. The 3.5 is a completely diferent style motor then the VG series. The 3.5 is a VQ series engine.

AirtekHVAC
Posts: 8
Joined: Tue Jun 21, 2005 2:37 pm
Car: '99 QX4

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Well, it seems that I will need to saty with the stock motor then..s'ok I guess..I found some guaranteed low mileage used ones for $1200-1500. I really can't afford a new or rebuilt one. I did find some mods, so perhaps down the road, I could add some more "oomph".

thanks for the info.

AirtekHVAC
Posts: 8
Joined: Tue Jun 21, 2005 2:37 pm
Car: '99 QX4

Post

Hey!

I found a motor out of a 98 Pathfinder. It was in Nebraska. It had verified mileage of 31,000. I got it delivered for $1400. It has been in the shop waiting for the motor to arrive. It only took them 4 days to do it. She is back on the road, and running great! The mechanic had to change a pilot bearing, seems that my motor came from a straight drive unit. I had them open it and inspect it, they said it looked brand new. I had new valve cover gaskets, new rear main, and new plugs and wires put in as well. Also had the transmission serviced. Although I hated to pay, I am glad to have my car back, driving the mini-van got old real quick. I welcomed her home with a complete interior detailing by me. Shampooed the carpet, mats. Armour all the interior, and leather conditioner. Then I took her to Auto bell, and gave her the works, tire black, window cleaning, under body, and lemon scent (lol).

Well, now I am $3k in the hole, but my car should last a few more years.

NISTECH
Posts: 10585
Joined: Sun May 25, 2003 4:17 am

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Good to hear.


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