Reverse Idler Gear End Play

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Nissan Sentra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When adjusting reverse idler gear end play, select adjusting shim for reverse idler gear. To select adjusting shim, measure clearance between transaxle case and reverse idler gear.
Calculate dimension "Q" (thickness of adjusting shim) using the following procedure to meet specification of end play for reverse idler gear.

Fig 1: Identifying Dimension Q
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
1. End play : 0.04 - 0.14 mm (0.0016 - 0.0055 in)
  1. Dimension "Q" = (Q1 - Q2) + End play
    1. Q : Thickness of adjusting shim
    2. Q1 : Distance between transaxle case end face and mounting face of adjusting shim
    3. Q2 : Distance between clutch housing case end face and end face of reverse idler gear
Adjusting Shim

Fig 2: Dimension Q Adjustment Shim Chart
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Using depth micrometer and straight edge, measure dimension "Q1" between transaxle case end face and mounting face of adjusting shim.

Fig 3: Measuring Dimension Q1
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Using depth micrometer and straight edge as shown in the figure, measure dimension "Q2" between clutch housing case end face and end face of reverse idler gear.

Fig 4: Measuring Dimension Q2
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Install selected reverse idler gear adjusting shim onto reverse idler gear.