Tune up checklist

[marioc89]

I'm going to do a tune up and I would like to know all the things I need to do a thorough tune up. I prefer oem all the way as I do with my legend. What plugs do I need (what came with it brand new), air filter, what type of engine oil, what type of transmission fluid and filter if these trucks came with one and any other thing I may have missed. I also been reading on here about some transfer case fluids too. Is that different from transmission fluids? I was confused on that and still is. Could y'all explain and clarify that?

[Towncivilian]

First, download a copy of the factory service manual if you haven't yet, it's an invaluable resource. To save a copy of the FSM, right click -> Save As on every PDF, save them into a single folder, then use fwd.pdf to navigate.

Use NGK FR5AP-10 spark plugs only. NGK brand spark plug wires are a good choice too.

• Air filter: Wix / NAPA Gold, Mann (you'd probably get a Mann if you buy one from the dealer)
• Fuel filter: Wix / NAPA Gold, OEM; a replacement guide can be found in the How-To thread pinned at the top of this subforum
• Engine oil: any 5W-30 on sale or at a price you're willing to pay
• Engine oil filter: anything, more or less
  A 5k mile oil change interval is an easy to remember number and any conventional oil today is capable of going that distance.
• Transmission fluid: Nissan Matic D is preferred (maybe pick a case up from Rob if the drive isn't too bad). Otherwise, Mobil ATF D/M is a good fluid and can be found at Target. Instructions on performing a full fluid exchange can be found in the general info thread linked in my signature.
  A pan drop isn't necessary as the strainer does not filter very finely and thus should not be clogged or significantly restricted. Think about installing an auxiliary transmission cooler and in-line filter; information about these can be found in the general information thread linked in my signature.
• Differentials: Mobil 1 75W-90 bought from Advanced Auto Parts online using discount codes then picked up in-store. Rear diff needs 3 quarts, front diff needs 2. This fluid pump will be a big help in filling the diffs and transfer case. Unfortunately, discount codes won't work for engine oil or transmission fluids. This drain plug socket set is a good thing to have too since the drain & fill plugs are 13mm, not 1/2" (12.7mm) exactly and using a 1/2" drive ratchet/breaker bar can round off the plugs. If you buy from HF, print out use a 20% coupon.
• Power steering fluid: Any synthetic ATF; Valvoline MaxLife or Mobil 1 ATF is a good choice here. Synthetic ATF will lower the operating temperature of the PS system and provide better cold weather performance (not like that's an issue in Texas or Florida for us though )
  Use a turkey baster or a suction gun from Harbor Freight from the dollar store to siphon & fill fluid from the reservoir.
• Transfer case: Same as PSF.
• Brake fluid: Any DOT3 or DOT4. Wearever (AAP house brand) will be fine, buy a quart bottle online when you buy the gear oil.
• Engine coolant: Nissan OEM green.
• Cabin air filter: Wix / NAPA Gold

Also think about buying an inexpensive grease gun from WalMart and any NLGI No. 2 lithium soap base containing molybdenum for greasing the front driveshaft. Valvoline DuraBlend from AAP is a good and inexpensive choice.

Also adjust the accelerator & cruise wires following instructions on page FE-3 and page EL-193 of the factory service manual. No doubt some slack has built up in the pedal after 13 or 14 years of driving.

[Slumpert]

Consider new cap and rotor. I suggest pulling the cover plate under the rotor off and use air in a can to blow it out good. Conductive dust build up from rotor and contactor is what I believe can blow out the electonics causing you to buy a new distributor.

Maybe fuel filter time?

[marioc89]

How would I save it to my phone? I see a bunch of directories and can't seem to figure out how to save it.

[marioc89]

Would it also be wise to stay oem and get this from Nissan or Infiniti? Such as the spark plugs, air filter, etc?

[Towncivilian]

Nearly everything can be purchased from AAP using discount codes. Spark plugs & engine air filter are nothing special and identical parts can be purchased cheaper from the aftermarket. The only thing I'd say is necessary from the dealer would be the Matic D transmission fluid, but the Mobil fluid I mentioned above should be a good substitute if you'd like a cheaper option.

I downloaded the FSM on my computer then put it on my phone's SD card. I use Adobe Reader to view it on my phone.

[marioc89]

Ok. Cool!