unclfstr Posted November 11, 2014 Share Posted November 11, 2014 Hello everyone, I just picked up a new to me 1998 Pathfinder this weekend. Not too bad: 182k, 5-speed and manual options (windows & locks). I need to fix a few things such as sticky locks and leaky valve cover gaskets, but it runs real good. I had a few questions for the group as far as what I should do first to make sure this lasts me a few years. I had planned on changing all the fluids as I don't think they have ever been done. I also ordered new drive belts and a fuel filter. I don't know whether or not the timing belt was done, but I figured by this point it would have gone south if it wasn't replaced. I have the carfax that lists out the first few owners and I am going to try to get in touch with the dealers that did service it and see what records they have. Any other advice? Im not afraid to do my own work but it does become a pain when there is 2 feet of snow on the ground... I did one of those online VIN checks but it doesn't say much; does anyone know if it is possible to get a copy of the original window sticker or build sheet? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thorpe991 Posted November 11, 2014 Share Posted November 11, 2014 (edited) What part of upsate you, from I'm in the Corning Elmira area Unless you get a mileage and year that the timing belt was changed i would do it mine was changed at 160xxx aand then sat for a year and broke at 179xxx so i would do it Edited November 11, 2014 by thorpe991 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
unclfstr Posted November 11, 2014 Author Share Posted November 11, 2014 I'm in Albany, a few hours from you. I have the week of Thanksgiving off from work, so I'm thinking I need to add a timing belt change to the to-do list... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thorpe991 Posted November 11, 2014 Share Posted November 11, 2014 Yeah i got lucky and my motor didnt brake when the timeing belt snaped the 3.3 is a interference motor so when it brakes it will send stuff threw the head and or block Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bushnut Posted November 11, 2014 Share Posted November 11, 2014 being in a rust state. I'd check for rust in the strut towers. there is a sticky thread on here somewhere. If all is good I'd go to town with a few cans of your favourite rust inhibitor. oh and lets see some pics please. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fleurys Posted November 14, 2014 Share Posted November 14, 2014 Welcome Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
unclfstr Posted November 16, 2014 Author Share Posted November 16, 2014 I'm sorry it took so long to get these up... I was finally able to spend a little time with it yesterday and found that the rear bumper reinforcement is bent pretty good... I guess I will have to replace it eventually. Valve covers drip a little so I ordered a Felpro set that will be here next week. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
green180 Posted November 17, 2014 Share Posted November 17, 2014 I like the color, welcome Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
unclfstr Posted November 26, 2014 Author Share Posted November 26, 2014 I changed all my fluids today and all I have to say is holy tightness! I don't think anything other than engine oil has been changed in this since it was new; the diffs and transfer case plugs still had factory sealant on them and I needed a 4 foot breaker bar to get the plugs out... 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