2006 Nissan Pathfinder, 160K miles
Camshaft chains “ate” their plastic guides and make a whining noise as chains rub directly against tensioners.
Nissan TSB calls for camshaft chains (2x) to be replaced together with tensioner guides only for these camshaft chains, no other components to be touched.
I’m inclined to make some more work:
- check valve lash and adjust in the same time (mileage is quite high, valves a little bit on the noisy side when cold)
- replace valve stem seals while I’m there anyways
- replace water pump: it is driven by the chain and at 160K is likely better to be replaced
- consider replacing main chain/guides
- consider replacing thermostat (preventive)
- consider replacing temp sensor (preventive)
I’ve checked my local dealer inventory on OEM parts: upper chains are $37 a piece, long chain is $100, other small components tick the cost to above $300 very fast
checking https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=5578260&cc=1433013&jsn=10521&jsn=10521 - the very same same is for around $100… but I have no idea how good or bad this maker is
alternative makes are in ballpark of $250, include more components than I really need:
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=8179152&cc=1433013&jsn=10523
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=7284912&cc=1433013&jsn=10522
Anybody with good/bad experience about “Enginetech” / “ITM Engine” / “Cloyes” timing components?
Instinctively I tent to favor Nissan OEM as a safe bet…
on water pump, have so many models…: https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/nissan,2006,pathfinder,4.0l+v6,1433013,cooling+system,water+pump,2208
I usually favor Gates pumps/tensioners/belts, any other suggestions?
For thermostat and sensor, it is a lot of options on RockAuto, but I think I will go OEM as I do not want to take any chances on temp controls