Guest ReyXLP Posted June 22, 2004 Share Posted June 22, 2004 I took my 97 Pathfinder SE to the dealer because there is a clicking sound that comes out of the front when I move in reverse with the steering wheel turned all the way to the right. They couldn't find the source of that problem, but they said the heat shields on the exhaust should be removed because they were coming loose and would eventually cause problems for the whole exhaust, but if I took them off now, the exhaust would last longer. I asked if the car would be okay without these shields, and they said the shields are only there to prevent anything on the floor from catching fire from the car, but because the car is so high off the ground, you don't need them, but they can't be replaced without replacing the whole exhaust, and that my exhaust was fine, other than the heat shields. Anyone who can confirm or deny this diagnosis, any help would be really appreciated. Thanks very much. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
squam1 Posted June 22, 2004 Share Posted June 22, 2004 rip'em off and don't look back... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
herm Posted June 22, 2004 Share Posted June 22, 2004 Mine have been off for years with no complaints. They start to rattle loose and it's not worth replacing. The line the dealer said about fire and higher ground clearance, well that's sorta correct. As far making the exhaust last longer, I'm not so sure I buy that one. I think the shields are only there because a law requires it. I suspect Nissan has to put the heat shields on to offer some protection against possible brush fire on hot pipes, but even with the ground clearance you are always at risk driving thru tall, dry grass, with or without heat shields. Just something to be aware of. I'm not sure if you'd notice an increase in cabin heat if you live in a southern climate, but also with the SE you have better insulation under the carpet. And it wouldn't generate so much heat a little AC couldn't overcome. But that doesn't resolve the clicking sound in reverse. Maybe a CV binding up? If it only happens in full lock in reverse, i wouldn't be too concerned, just keep an eye on it if it becomes more common. m. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest ReyXLP Posted June 22, 2004 Share Posted June 22, 2004 Thank you guys so much for the quick responses, I really appreciate it! Service folks also mentioned the CV, but said it wouldn't be an issue for a very long time and suggested leaving it alone for now. Stay well, Rey Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sw Posted June 22, 2004 Share Posted June 22, 2004 just remeber cv's only turn when 4wd is engaged what about rubber boots on the steering stops or lower arm to chassis bolts Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
88pathoffroad Posted June 23, 2004 Share Posted June 23, 2004 On a 97, the CV axles are always spinning regardless of transfer case position, remember? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
big_johnson Posted June 23, 2004 Share Posted June 23, 2004 yeah, we've got the drive flanges up front, constant CV rotation Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sw Posted June 23, 2004 Share Posted June 23, 2004 sorry, i retract my comment - wasnt awear of the constant drive up front for the new pathys -study- Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now