Disassembly

Fig. 2 Timing Belt Replacement. Except VE30DE:

1. Drain coolant from engine.
2. Position No. 1 cylinder at TDC of compression stroke.
3. Remove timing belt covers, Fig. 2.
4. Loosen timing belt tensioner and return spring, and remove timing belt.
5. Remove water pump.
6. Drain engine oil, then remove oil pan and oil pump.

Fig. 51 External Engine Components. 1990-92 Pathfinder & Pickup:

Fig. 55 Intake Manifold Collector. 1990-92 Pathfinder & Pickup:

7. Remove intake manifold collector cover and the collector, Fig. 51 Loosen attaching bolts in sequence, Fig. 55.

Fig. 56 Intake Manifold Bolt Loosening Sequence. 1989 300ZX & 1990 Pathfinder & Pickup:

8. Remove intake manifold with fuel tube assembly. Loosen attaching bolts in sequence, Fig. 56.
9. Remove power steering pump bracket, then the exhaust manifold covers.
10. Disconnect exhaust manifold connecting tube, then remove camshaft sprockets and rear timing cover attaching bolts.

Fig. 58 Cylinder Head Bolt Loosening Sequence. Excludes 1990-92 300ZX & 1992 Maxima W/VE30DE Engine:

Fig. 59 Cylinder Block, Crankshaft & Piston Exploded View:

Fig. 60 Main Bearing Cap Bolt Loosening Sequence:

11. Remove cylinder head attaching bolts, then the cylinder heads with exhaust manifolds attached. On all models except 1990-92 300ZX loosen attaching bolts in sequence, Fig. 58.
12. Remove connecting rod caps and bearings, then the piston and connecting rod assemblies.
13. Remove main bearing cap and crankshaft, Fig. 59. Loosen attaching bolts in sequence, Fig. 60.