Genuine Nissan Frontier Crankshaft

Nissan Frontier Crankshaft Parts Questions & Answers

• CRANKSHAFT Assembly
  12200-0W001
  Q: How to remove the crankshaft on Nissan Frontier?

  A: Crankshaft removal is a process that can only happen after the engine has been removed from the vehicle and involves some prerequisites, like taking off the flywheel/driveplate, crankshaft pulley, timing belt (for 3.3L engines) or timing chain (for 2.4L and 3.5L engines), camshaft, crankshaft sprockets, oil pan, oil pump, and piston/connecting rod assemblies. In addition to this, before one embarks on crankshaft removal, it is important to examine the endplay of the crankshaft using dial indicators or feeler gauges. The dial indicator should be mounted with the stem in line with the crankshaft to contact one of its throws and zeroed out. After that, gently push back the crankshaft and observe the reading given by a dial indicator as this will indicate endplay. If there are excessive side clearances in excess of specifications then an investigation into wear on thrust surface of the crankshaft is required. If no wear is indicated then replacement of main bearing may cure end play problem. An alternative way to measure crankshaft end play uses feeler gauges to pry or push gently against the front face of the thrust bearing while placing feeler gauges between it and the front of the thrust bearing to determine how much clearance exists. Gradually loosen each main bearing cap bolt by turning it a quarter turn at a time in reverse order of tightening them until manoully removable bearing cap(s) and brace assembly are achieved.Normally cast-in arrows on main bear ing cap assembly indicate direction towards drivebelt end of engine but if these aren't there use number stamp or punch for marking cap assembly position/direction. Only mark front side of bearing cap brace when working on 3.3L engines because caps and brace are asingle unit.On 3.5L engines however, front part of bearing cap brace should be marked, removed and then inspected for installation marks on main bearing caps before they are removed from the engine. Notably, 2.4L engines do not include a main bearing cap brace. Theoretically, when loosening cap assembly from the engine block, you should be careful about losing bearing inserts in case they come out with the cap assembly. Thereafter, lift crankshaft out of the engine being cautious about its significant weight by preferably using help. Finally, put back cap assembly at its position ontheengineblockwiththebearinginsertsintactandtightenboltsfinger-tight.Incaseof3.5Lengines,the condition of main bearing cap bolts must be checked to ensure that there is no excessive stretching; if there is a difference of more than 0.0043 inch (0.11 mm) between indicated areas in bolt diameter, replace the bolts even complete sets if necessary.