Reverse Idler Gear End Play

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Nissan Altima and 2002 Nissan Altima. 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 satisfy specification of end play for reverse idler gear.
End play : 0.04 - 0.14 mm (0.0016 - 0.0055 in)
1. Dimension "Q" = ("Q ₁ " - "Q ₂ (" + End play
  1. "Q" : Thickness of adjusting shim
  2. "Q ₁ : Distance between transaxle case end face and mounting face of adjusting shim
  3. "Q ₂ " : Distance between clutch housing case end face and end face of reverse idler gear
Fig 1: Measuring Clearance Q Between Transaxle Case And Reverse Idler Gear
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Adjusting Shim

Fig 2: Reverse Idler Gear End Play Adjusting Shim Specification Table
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

CAUTION: Only 1 adjusting shim can be selected.

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

Fig 3: Measuring Dimension "Q1" Between Transaxle Case End Face And Mounting Face Of Adjusting Shim
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Using depth micrometer and straight edge, measure dimension "Q₂ " between clutch housing case end face and end face of reverse idler gear as shown.

Fig 4: Measuring Dimension "Q2" Between Clutch Housing Case End Face And End Face Of Reverse Idler Gear
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Install selected reverse idler gear adjusting shim onto reverse idler gear.