mbhang

I recently changed the front halfshaft (drivers side). One of the thing that looked a little odd (I have a 99) is that there is a huge distance between the cotter pin and the Axle Nut (at least 3mm), and I couldn't quite get how the nut is being locked by the cotter pin (it is not being locked - as far as I can tell)

I noticed that 96 and earlier Maximas have an insulator and adjusting cap which lock the axle nut in place.

You can compare the drawings for the front axle in the FSM for 1996 and 1999 4th gen (notice part number 15 and 14 on page FA-8 of the 96 manual which is missing on page FA-8 of the 97 pdf)

96 maxima Front Axle doc link
http://www.boredmder.com/FSM/Nissan/Maxima/1996/fa.pdf

97 maxima Front Axle doc link
http://www.boredmder.com/FSM/Nissan/Maxima/1997/fa.pdf

Why did Nissan decide to remove the locking arrangement ? I wonder. Also, doesn't this make the axle nut a little unsafe in the 97 and later models.

pmohr

iTrader: (26)

Interesting, never noticed that.

It's hardly 'unsafe'; if it was, it never would've made it out, especially still (current Maximas have the same setup). Even if it did, there would be recalls about it. As long as the axle nut is torqued down properly, there won't be an issue.

It's just cheaper, and they weren't needed. Simplest explanation, most likely the correct one.

ajm8127

iTrader: (8)

Occam's Razor at work.