I did search men ... and have been reading for about 40 minutes.

However, I found some defunct links to at least one apparently quite good how-to on vqpower.com. Actually visited vqpower and found a water pump replacement how-to but no TC tensioner and/or guide replacement info.

I realize this has been discussed numerous times in the past but like I said I've been unable to find or link to an effective how to that's at all clear.

Can someone point me in the right direction or tell me that the info just doesn't exist?

I've reviewed some you tube videos and have some ideas on what to look for in some additional investigations and I've got a new Nissan tensioner on the way. But, I'm preparing myself for a worst case (i.e my guide(s) have gone bad).

I got a price from my Nissan guy last evening on a full timing set replacement ... $2,400.00

So before I even think about going that route I want to try to tackle it myself. However, having digested some good reference material prior donning my coveralls, I think would be a good idea.

 

I cant tell you much, but i can tell you never go through nissan for repairs.

 

It's not the dealership.

 

Are you sure you need to replace tensioner and the guide? It is much cheaper and easier to replace just the tensioner.

 

I'm going to try that first. I've got new tensioner and gasket enroute.

There is a link to a you tube video of a guy with a 3.5 out of his car and with the outer TC cover removed. His video shows the issue that apparently typically develops with the lower guide that causes the guide and it also shows the resulting situation with the tensioner when the guide has gone bad.

Based on the video it appears that these issues can be seen with the tensioner inspection plate removed. I'll do some more inspection this weekend. If these things are not present them I'm going to assume it might be oil leak down which can be remedied with a tensioner and gasket replacement.

Here's that video:

 

That picure/video is of the VQ35 tensioner & guide assembly.
Those are junk compared to the VQ30 parts that you are dealing with.

That situation does not apply to your engine. Be grateful.