jhay

iTrader: (2)

Hey fellow max owners,

I just got done doing the pain staking water pump and noticed my passenger side outer boot is in rough shape while I was under the car. I plan to replace the whole half axle. The procedure in the book states to remove the bottom balljoint. I did some reading and came up with needing a 36mm socket for the axle nut but couldn't find anything for the size of the bottom balljoint. The biggest Metric wrench I have is 17mm and it don't fit. Does anyone know what size that nut is so I can get the right tools I need.

Thanks in advanced,

Jim

UncleMax98

No need to remove the ball joint to get the axel out. http://www.motorvate.ca/mvp.php/401 has the instructions. Note: In my experience, no alignment is needed as long as you don't loosen the tie rod end.

Any tips on changing the water pump? How long did it take? Did you have to remove the timing chain tensioner?

jhay

iTrader: (2)

It took me about 6-7 hours to change out the water pump. The main reason it took me so long is because I was trying to remove the pump with just pinning the tensioner. There just wasn't enough slack. Once I removed the tensioner, it made a world of difference. I can't really add anything to it except to make sure you mark where the cranckshaft pulley is before you turn it CCW to relieve the tension. I made the mistake of not marking it, and kinda went by the amount of turn I did with the ratchet. I'm lucky I got it back in the right spot. It's possible to be off by a tooth or 2 which will create your timing to be off.

As for removing the axle, I thought once you remove the strut, you need to get it aligned agained.

Thanks
Jim

UncleMax98

Many people said alignment is needed, but I checked with the dealer. They said no need to do alignment if all you do is to remove the strut. I did not do alignment and there is no abnormal tire wear after 3,000 miles. For the Maxima, only toe is adjustable.