Nissan Maxima Repair Manual 1993-2008

This Chilton 52452 DIY repair and service manual, covers 1993-2008 Nissan Maxima cars, U.S. and Canadian models.

Note: the manual DOES NOT include information specific to the dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) engine in 1993 and 1994 Maxima SE models).

THERMOSTAT REPLACEMENT
(Refer to illustrations 3.14a, 3.14b, 3.15 and 3.17)

10. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
11. Drain the coolant from the radiator and the engine block (see Chapter 1).
12. On SOHC engines detach the upper radiator hose from the coolant outlet at the intake manifold and the radiator, and then unbolt the hose clamp at the timing belt cover and remove the radiator hose. Detach the bypass hose from the thermostat cover.
13. On DOHC engines remove the drive belts and the idler pulley bracket. Also remove the lower radiator hose and the water pump drain plug from the side of the block which faces the front of the vehicle. Later models have a coolant drain plug in the drive belt end of the engine below the water pump cover. Remove this drain plug on models so equipped.
14. If you're working on a main thermostat, remove the thermostat cover from the engine (see illustrations). If you're working on a water control valve (secondary thermostat, 2000 and 2001 only), remove the thermostat cover from the large coolant tube on top of the engine. Be prepared for some coolant to spill as the gasket seal is broken.
15. Remove the thermostat, noting the direction in which it was installed (see illustration).
16. Scrape off any old gasket or sealant on the thermostat housing and the thermostat cover, and then clean them with lacquer thinner.
17. Apply a bead of RTV sealant around the perimeter of the cover, install the new thermostat with the jiggle valve UP (see illustration) and bolt the cover in place within 5 minutes of applying the sealant.
18. Installation is the reverse of removal. Tighten the thermostat cover fasteners to the torque listed in this Chapter's Specifications, and then reinstall the hoses.
19. Wait at least a half-hour for the sealant to cure. Refill and bleed the cooling system (see Chapter 1). Run the engine and check for leaks and proper operation.

CLUTCH PEDAL | ADJUSTMENT 2002 AND EARLIER MODELS | PEDAL HEIGHT
(Refer to illustrations 8.1 and 8.3)

1. With the clutch pedal fully released, measure the distance from the top of the pad to the floor (see illustration).
2. If the height is not as listed in the Specifications at the end of this Chapter it must be adjusted.
3. Loosen the locknut on the pedal stopper or cruise control (ASCD) switch (see illustration).
4. Turn the pedal stopper or cruise control switch until the pedal height is correct.
5. Tighten the locknut and recheck the clutch pedal height.
2002 AND EARLIER MODELS | PEDAL FREE PLAY
6. Press down lightly on the clutch pedal and measure the distance that it moves freely before the clutch resistance is felt (see illustration 8.1). The free play should be within the specified limits listed at the end of this Chapter. If it isn't, it must be adjusted.
7. Loosen the locknut on the master cylinder pushrod (see illustration 8.3) and turn the rod clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the clutch pedal free play.
8. Tighten the locknut and recheck the clutch pedal free play.
2003 AND LATER MODELS
9. Press the pedal through its full stroke and check for binding. Correct any problems (worn pivot pin, etc.) before making the adjustment.
10. With the pedal pressed all the way down, check the clearance between the tip of the clutch interlock switch and the rubber pad on the pedal stopper. If it's not as listed in this Chapter's Specifications loosen the switch locknut and rotate the switch to change the adjustment. Once the clearance is correct, tighten the locknut.