03_maxima

Whats the best way to change the plug in cylider #3 on the VQ35? I cant even get to the bolt that holds the the coil on

Chris Gregg

iTrader: (59)

Remove upper intake manifold and elbow.

Highly suggest replacing rear valve cover while in there (using one from a 2004 Maxima). Also, if looking to do spacers, this would be the time to do that as well.

MrEous

iTrader: (11)

There is a plate that attaches the upper im to the rear of the engine...once that bish comes off, don't put it back on. You'll see why.

NmexMAX

iTrader: (22)

cjandura

iTrader: (3)

I know that support is back there and i had to remove it but why do i have the process totally blocked out of my memory?i also think i never put it back on.

a33nismo

^ yep you need to remove the upper intake manifold in to replace the spark plug and coil back there.

Also while you have your manifold off its a good time to clean the carbon out of it along with what others have suggested.

Gemner

iTrader: (4)

what process is there to forget on removing the UIM? There's 4 clamps, 3 bolts, 2 nuts, 1 electrical connection, and some pulling.

And 2 more clamps if you still have the TB heater/coolant connected though you probably dont have to remove that if you are just doing the plugs

03_maxima

Thanks everyone! what is the reason for replacing the valve cover on an 2003 with one from an 2004??

Fakie J Farkerton

iTrader: (51)

Price.

03_maxima

Also, where is the best place to find an 04 rear valve cover for my 03? thanks

Chris Gregg

iTrader: (59)

And quality. It resolves the "defect" from the 5.5gen version.

03_maxima

what is the defect in the 5.5 gen valve cover?

Chris Gregg

iTrader: (59)

Bad spark plug seal on back right cylinder.

03_maxima

Cool, thanks, i will def replace

Gemner

iTrader: (4)

why does everyone get all replacement happy about the rear valve cover if the person hasnt reported oil? Its not like it causes any engine failures and there are tons of valve covers out there from 02-03 that arent causing leaks. If getting to replace the cover was some huge job that takes all day to do then it would make sense, but its only like 20 mins to pull the UIM, maybe an hour if its your second time and you struggle with tools

Chris Gregg

iTrader: (59)

To me anyway, it's the simple ideology of "work smarter not harder." Why make more work for myself and add any additional cost of having to replace gaskets a second time when I can just do it at the same time? My time and money are valuable to me.

And I'd rather have the cover there for when I do plugs and /or coils so that I don't have to then have my AE down as I wait in parts that I can't even order till Monday (do my car stuff on weekend you see).

Fakie J Farkerton

iTrader: (51)

http://www.courtesyparts.com/kb_sear...utton=Go&cat=1

NmexMAX

iTrader: (22)

I semi agree. Changed my plugs at 90k about 4 years ago, and have yet to se any issues, and at 130k now, no plans on it as of yet.

Then again my IM comes off in about 5-6 minutes tops.


Also, OP, learn to search while you're on here. A lot of basic spoonfeeding going on when this thread could probably answer all your questions and more.

http://forums.maxima.org/5th-generat...overs-pic.html

03_maxima

I saw a little oil in there when I changed the plugs. Seals are leaking, so I am changing them both, front and back! They are cheap enough. thanks. Any torque settings on the valve covers?

Fakie J Farkerton

iTrader: (51)

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/

03_maxima

cool thanks