Just wondering if the valve covers from a 02-04 Patfinder will work on a 03 Maxima. I know that most people switch to the 04-06 maxima valve covers, but wondering if the Pathfinders are made the same?

 

What would be the point if they're the same VCs?

 

Maybe they are made better than the ones on the Maxima? Just a guess since I know little on Nissans. I found a pair on ebay that are cheap and thought they might be better made. I'm in the process of replacing the plugs on mine and the rear spark plug hole on the drivers side had oil in it. Is the only fix to this is a new valve cover or just a new gasket?

 

im sure they will work just the same dude...pcv valve while youre at it

 

No you need the valve cover, as it has the spark plug gaskets built in

 

I meant they're probably the same b/c they're early production VCs. No point chancing it. I would just get the 6th gen VCs.

 

If I use the valve cover I have now, put it back on then seal up the gap with gasket sealer will this keep the oil from entering the spark plug tube?

 

lol

 

The Design has been improved already

 

A couple years ago, I was between a rock and a hard-place, and had to purchase a brand new replacement 5.5 gen valve cover. The car was in the shop in the middle of a repair and upgrade, and a 6.0 gen VC would have taken a few days to arrive. I didn't do the install, but my mechanic was telling me the replacement VC was subtly different from the original, and yet they were both 5.5 gen VC's.

Based on this, I'm thinking they improved the design for their parts supply line. Or like other parts, (MAF comes to mind), they consolidated the parts up the line, but retained the more expensive end-costs wherever they could.

Not exactly ethical from the consumer's point of view, but that's business.

 

What should I expect to pay for 6th gen rear valve cover and any suggestions on a good place to buy one?

Thanks.

 

Southpoint nissan ask for Dave B. in parts. He will get you the best prices.

 

Start your pricing at CourtesyParts.com. Buy there for online convenience, or contact Dave B. at Southpoint Nissan and you'll get a slightly better price.