Nissan Frontier 4 0 Timing Chain Repair Part 2

In this Episode of DIY Willy we are FINISHED with changing the Timing Chains and tensioners on the Nissan Frontier 4.0 V6. And what a job it was but we did it and it turned out great. As mentioned in Part 1 a viewer had commented that he could hear the timing chain tensioners whine. So I decided to go ahead and change the tensioners and chains. After getting everything apart I discovered that he was absolutely correct and the two secondary chain tensioners were DESTROYED. Thank You for the heads up! Probably saved my engine from severe damage.
So follow along as we change the Timing Chains with all new Factory parts shown in the video.
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Nissan Frontier Episodes:
Nissan frontier 4.0 Timing Chain Repair Part 1.... • Nissan Frontier 4 0 Ti...
Replacing The Heater Hoses on Nissan Frontier.... • Replacing The Heater H...
Nissan Frontier KC HiLites Fog Light Upgrade.... • NIssan Frontier KC HiL...
Delrin Steering Rack Bushing Upgrade.... • Delrin Steering Rack B...
New Reservoir Shocks for the Nissan Frontier.... • New Reservoir Shocks f...
Pedal Commander Install 2008 Nissan Frontier 4.0 V6.... • Pedal Commander Instal...
NISSAN Frontier Off-Road LED Whip Mount.... • NISSAN Frontier Off-Ro...
Frontier Rear Axle Differential Breather Mod.... • Frontier Rear Axle Dif...
EBC Brake Pad Change on the 2008 Nissan Frontier.... • EBC Brake Pad Change o...
Back Up Camera install Nissan Frontier.... • Back Up Camera install...
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[@williamrivera647]

Great informative video Willy. I have a 2007 Frontier Crew Cab 4x4 with 273,570 original miles on it and the tensioner whining noise. Thanks for making it look from being frightened to tackle it myself to saving a ton of cash and making it a long weekend to get it done myself. Best wishes on the next DIY projects and be well.

[@DIYWilly]

Yes the repair can be frightening but honestly it’s easy. Just slow yourself enough time and do your research and understand it completely. Use quality parts you don’t want to do it again soon. Remember to change water pump also and necessary hose for preventative maintenance. Good luck and thanks for watching.

[@dm1273]

Нічого страшного там немає. А те що купу грошей з економите це 100% в США все дорого. І доходить до жорстокого жлобства

[@bahdawg]

Thanks Willy, I'm newly a truck owner, 2018 nissan frontier 4.0 and watching your videos are so informative and I feel like I'm getting to know my machine through you. Haven't needed any work yet but I'm feeling like maybe ill be able to do my own repairs if it comes up. Cheers!

[@DIYWilly]

Thank you for the kind words and thanks for watching.

[@kimchee94112]

I was under the impression timing chains last the lifetime of the car, a few hundred thousand miles. On my little Frontier and the large V6, it's only 100K miles then needed a new chain.

[@DIYWilly]

Yes the chains will stretch but the problem is more with the guides wearing out causing metal to metal contact on the system.

[@NeverEnoughPyro40]

Most likely your fan blade hit the radiator and caused the hole! There is no way that hole was there prior to you starting the job! A whole of that size would have been extremely noticeable, Not to mention you would have lost all your coolant within 20 minutes of driving! I’ve been a mechanic for 26 years and I can’t help but picking a part other peoples work, Only because if they do something wrong someone else will watch the video and also make the same mistake! I was extremely impressed with the entire job, The only thing I had a little issue with was the amount of RTV you used on the timing cover! More is not always better! It’s OK if it squeezes out, The problem is all of the extra RTV that squeezes into the engine! What happens is overtime the extra RTV that squeezes into the cover could break free and start circulating throughout the engine which could cause a blockage! Great job!! 👍👍

[@DIYWilly]

Thanks for watching

[@davidessien5465]

On Saturday 16/7/2022 about 5pm a client called me to his abode. When I got there he told me that he observed when he was about to drive into his compound that oil was leaking in his car. Although, it took me some minutes to troubleshoot the problem because the oil spattered excessively to many accessories of the car like alternator, power steering pump, fan belt, TPS, AC compressor, etc. I searched for the leak and finally saw what was causing it. I noticed that it was because of the CKP oil seal at the pulley side/front of engine. It was late hence auto parts store closed that was why I didn't replace the seal that day but encouraged them not to drive the car until I replace the seal. On Monday 18/7/2022 I changed the seal and the leaking stopped and the idled fine but I only observed that few minutes to avoid catastrophic outcome to the engine because the engine oil level was low. After replacement of the seal the fan belt cutoff and I replaced it as well. They didn't drive the car until Tuesday when the went to the replace the oil. But before they moved they called that the whole car was vibrating. I was unable to reach out to them so I told them I will meet them on Wednesday 20/7/2022. I got there yesterday as promised and noticed a severe vibration at idle which wasn't there when I left on Monday. I scanned the car and retrieved some codes that I will upload. Among those codes, I was particularly focused on the P0016, P0113, P0123, and P2135 although I verified the ignition codes and saw that it fired very fine. As a result, I cleaned the CMP sensor of the 2 banks and installed them back but to no prevail, I still noticed a vibration. I pulled the CMP sensor again within 2 minutes of idling and noticed that it was dirty again. This time I had to pull VVTI solenoid valve of both banks alongside the CMP sensor and cleaned them. In addition, I used a very clean dry cloth and insert into the CMP sensor hole to properly clean the inside of the engine. In the process, I also noticed that the injection head where the TPS sensor is tightened was very dirty as when a carbon and oil are mixed together so I cleaned that too using a tooth brush. At last, when I put everything back to it's respective places the idle was very nice because the car didn't vibrate again! However, there is a problem that I want you to help me out with. It's a high rev in RPM to about 1.4 at idle. I Before I left there yesterday I scanned the car again and found only the P0123 and P2135. Please note that this two codes appeared only after cleaning the CMP sensor, VVT solenoid valve and the injection head. It didn't appear before the cleaning of those accessories. When I started the car it rev high from about 1.25 to 1.4 RPM and remains there. The RPM doesn't go up and down. When I accelerated the car it rev very fine. I also noticed that the TPS connector was slightly broken, it didn't fit in very well and didn't hear a snap sound when connected to the TPS module. But whenever I pulled the TPS connector completely out when the car was idling there was a great reduction in RPM as if the car wants to stall so I immediately connect it back slightly and noticed that the RPM goes down and remains at 1000 RPM. The car owner even noticed the reduction in RPM, stood up and moved to me and said that that's the way the car should idle. But if is still connected at that place and switch off the car it idles to 1.4 RPM and remains there until I repeat the unplugging of the TPS connector process. I tested the connector with my test light and noticed 2 ground out of the 6pins (one of the ground was very dim the other was bright) at the pin connector that illuminated the dim light when tester was at battery positive. I also noticed a dim light when I checked for current with my test light now hucked up to ground and ignition switch activated to ON position. Presently, the car idling don't want to reduce to 1000 RPM and also the only codes that doesn't want to go out are: P0121, P0122, P0123 and P2135. In addition, the tapping sound from the right bank doesn't want to go out. Please help me, how do I permanently solve this car problems?

[@DIYWilly]

My apologies David I just saw your comment. All the code indicate a problem with the throttle body and throttle position sensor. I’ve never had to deal with this at least not yet. A few things you should check: cracked vacuum hoses (Usually I find cracked hoses at the plenum- the small ones), check PVC system and check all the oil seals for damage (dip stick and filler cap O-rings). Disconnect the negative terminal on the battery for about for about 30sec to reset computer. If you’ve done all that and problem still exists then you may need to relearn the throttle position sensor. If you google “ throttle body idle and volume relearn procedure” it’s a pretty simple process. This is the best suggestion I can offer. 🤞 But first please look for vacuum leaks or PCV system problems. When I did mine repair I don’t know if I mentioned that I replaced the PCV valve in the passenger side valve cover. Since it was my vehicle and not a customers I replaced many preventative maintenance parts just because.. A little insurance that the engine would run like new.

[@davidessien5465]

@@DIYWilly Thank you so much for your assistance🤝. On Tuesday 26/7/2022 I sprayed carburetor cleaner to the TPS sensor and butterfly of the throttle body again. I wickled it back and forth severally. I also tapped on the TPS sensor when the car was idling. I loosed the car negative battery terminal and waited few minutes and then connected it back. I also unplugged the TPS connector then crank the car twice knowing it wouldn't start and idle. I connected the connector back. I cleared the codes and cranked the engine everything was Ok again with God's support! The car owner was very happy!

[@jthondacrf8926]

I love the video i have a 2018 nissan frontier pro4x has the same engine

[@DIYWilly]

That’s a great truck. Keep up the maintenance and enjoy the truck. Thanks for watching

[@kikeg.8376]

Friend I bought the book that you did me the favor of passing me the link a thousand thanks you explain it very well in the 2 videos but I wanted the book thank you very much blessings

[@DIYWilly]

So glad I could help you..

[@davidessien5465]

Great video

[@DIYWilly]

Thanks for watching David. I hope the video can help others either do there own repair or understand what’s involved when asking a shop to do it. It can be a very expensive repair.

[@fatbuddycat]

I think I'd be less afraid to attempt this but not quite full of confidence!

[@DIYWilly]

Took way too long... 🤯

[@jgrm4443]

I enjoyed part 1 and 2 Thank you for sharing. I am a new subscriber to this channel.

[@DIYWilly]

Hello jgrm4443, thanks for watching. Glad you liked the video and thank you for subscribing!!

[@Jacksonransom]

Good video. Thanks

[@DIYWilly]

Thanks for watching

[@motogp9253]

Thanks DIY Willy, you provide a lot of great tips and tricks. Where did you buy your kit that has all the component and seals required for this job? Thanks!

[@DIYWilly]

Hello, Glad you liked it. I made good friends with the Nissan parts person at my local dealer. I bought everything from Nissan. I could have saved some money buying from other sources but with the amount of work to do this job I wanted quality parts. Thanks for watching!!

[@McAdamsMechanics]

I bet that feels amazing to get it started

[@DIYWilly]

Oh yes it’s a very exciting time!! Thanks for watching!!

[@Earl1372]

Good jop sir 👍

[@DIYWilly]

Hello Earl, Glad you liked it. Thanks for watching!!

[@kikeg.8376]

Hello friend, where do I buy the book, could you pass me the link or the data please since I have one and the screw torque does not come, I have a 2010 nissan frontier and I will change the timing chain

[@DIYWilly]

Here is the manual I purchased. Hope this helps… www.amazon.com/dp/1620922371?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

[@kikeg.8376]

@@DIYWilly my friend thank you

[@bm6539]

Thanks good video,very helpful

[@DIYWilly]

Thanks for watching!

[@stephengordon8968]

Nice work

[@DIYWilly]

Thank you It’s a very involved job but is easily completed with enough time and patience. Thanks for watching

[@TheA10Phonex]

I've been thinking about whether or not I should change my 07 Pathfinder's timing chain. I bought it with 80K miles and had whining noise since then.

[@DIYWilly]

I would definitely look in to it if you are hearing the whining sound. Thanks for watching

[@user-hr4dq8on9h]

How has it worked out for you with bypassing the radiator with your transmission lines? Have you had any heating issue with the transmission??

[@DIYWilly]

Hello Dennis, I have not had any problems with high temps on the transmission. I do have the external cooler that does the job. I had thought about a fan on the cooler but so far have not needed it. Great question! Thanks for watching!!!

[@rnr5445]

All I can say is one would think chain guides would be made much more stronger and supports for being such. important part for keeping the engine and timing in a vehicle working. Instead of being the part that can make an other wise good solid built engine prematurely fail.

[@DIYWilly]

Hello RnR, I totally agree. The engines are too good to be vulnerable to parts designed to wear out. But then again how would the car companies make money if everything lasted forever. Thanks for watching!!!

[@zoomy5433]

Do you still have a little lifter tick or tap sound? Just bought a 2012. Trying to decide if these engines just sound like this or if I need to replace chains or lifters.

[@DIYWilly]

Hello Zoomy, No the engine is quieter after the ring chain replacement. Depending on the mileage the vehicle has would be an indication of guide replacement. The sound from the chains is not a tick or tap sound but usually a whining sound from the chain running across the tensioner piston. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching!!

[@ceciliolechuga820]

Did you come up with full list of the parts used ?

[@DIYWilly]

Wow it’s hard to just give a list.. Your vehicle may need more depending on mileage. I purchased all the parts from NISSAN. Really this is a lot of work and you don’t want to risk it with cheap aftermarket parts. At least that’s my opinion.. Now I don’t remember all the part numbers but I believe there in the videos. If you go to NISSAN parts department they can help. The price may scare you but it’s a small price to pay to keep the engine happy. 1. Timing chain kit (3 chains and 4 guides) 2. Timing cover seal kit(Orings and silicone) 3. Water pump (driven by timing chain. It’s a good idea to change it now) 4. Inspect all hoses and replace as needed. ( including heater hoses and cooling hoses) 5. A really good manual to reference needed specs. (Amazon) Really I could write a book about everything but that’s too much. Honestly study the videos and talk with the parts guy. Try and build a friendship with him. That person is priceless and full of knowledge or at least they should be. It’s a very time consuming job but will pay off in the end. I took the time to change the thermostat and housing, the alternator and radiator. I also fixed and recharged the A/C while I was there. The only part I didn’t change and wish I did was the variable valve parts. There are VVT sprockets on the exhaust cams and actuators (I think that’s what there called) near the valve covers. This is also a great time to fix valve cover oil leaks. It’s like a brand new truck now. Remember NISSAN wanted $3500 to do the job and that was just for chains and guides. I did all the work mentioned above for less that $2000. That’s a huge savings and so many repairs done if your not afraid to do it yourself. I hope this helps you.

[@ceciliolechuga820]

@@DIYWilly thank you !!

[@thomasjones613]

Was that the original water pump that you changed when you did the timing chains?

[@DIYWilly]

I’m the second owner of the truck so I’m not sure… But safe to say properly yes was original to the engine.

[@charlessanders1342]

Did the chain wear out? Or just maintenance

[@DIYWilly]

Hello Charlie, it the tensioners/guides that actually wear out. Thanks for watching!

[@jgrm4443]

Hello, Did you get the timing kit at Nissan as well?

[@DIYWilly]

Yes I purchased all the parts from my local NISSAN dealer parts department. Thanks for watching!

[@jgrm4443]

@@DIYWilly Thanks for replying. I need a timing set for a 2005 Nissan Pathfinder LE. There are not any good reviews for timing set in eBay or Amazon and neither from 1A auto. I will give Nissan dealership a try out for my peace of mind.

[@DIYWilly]

@@jgrm4443 Good idea man!

[@Lou-eye]

How many miles was on it when you did that job?

[@DIYWilly]

Hello Lou-eye, The truck had roughly 160,000 when I did this job. Thanks for Watching!!!

[@VenetianBlinds]

@@DIYWilly Did you consider dropping a remanufactured engine in it? I've had mine for 10k miles, bought at 130k & may do just the timing related components, but I'm skeptical of the maintenance history so I'm considering going further. Looks like most are $3400 after core.

[@DIYWilly]

@@VenetianBlinds No this is a great running engine no need to replace it. Besides I enjoy that type of work. By doing it my self I was able to do some other preventative maintenance things to help the engine last many more miles. Thanks for watching.

[@rshinn8776]

Did you buy only that white plastic tensioner guide, or did you have to buy the whole assembly? I have that brown plastic that fell apart too. I only see the whole assembly for sale not just the white plastic

[@DIYWilly]

You need to buy the chains and tensioners as a set. Don’t forget the little gaskets and Orings!

[@rshinn8776]

@@DIYWilly ok thanks. Watched both your videos. My hands are all cut up like yours lol

[@DIYWilly]

@@rshinn8776 😂 yep things are sharp. Take you time and make sure it’s timed right. Follow all the torque specs and get’er done. I can’t stress enough on taking your time.Good luck and thanks for watching. Let me know how it turns out!

[@dm1273]

🇺🇦 Willy - you didn't show anything informative to the taxi: - the problem in these engines with the so-called gun gasket; - you did not blow the heads of phase regulators with air / without making sure of their tightness; - you didn't even measure the valves; the video is just about nothing. do not be offended. I'm from Ukraine, I have a Nissan Xterra engine, just like you have a VQ40DE 4.0 gasoline engine!

[@DIYWilly]

Gun gaskets? Phase regulators? Sounds like you taking about a space ship… Thanks for taking the time to watch and leaving a comment.

[@dm1273]

@@DIYWilly no spaceship. if the gun gasket, which is located in the middle of the engine, breaks, the heads of the phase regulators remain without oil. engine error P0021/ P0345, etc. I am generally silent about valves / in the USA. one + spare parts for the engine are available.