Genuine 2005 Nissan Maxima Cylinder Head

2005 Nissan Maxima Cylinder Head Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to clean, inspect, and reassemble the cylinder head on 2005 Nissan Maxima?

  A: To remove the timing chain(s) and sprockets, first take off the exhaust manifold if working on a 2003 or later model, ensuring not to disturb the crankshaft from TDC on the compression stroke of the No.1 cylinder. Next, remove the rear timing chain cover bolts in reverse order of the tightening sequence and detach the rear timing cover from the engine, using a block of wood and hammer if necessary to break the gasket seal without damaging the sealing surfaces. Proceed to remove the lower intake manifold, camshafts, and lifters from the cylinder head, labeling and removing any remaining items attached to the cylinder head. Loosen the cylinder head bolts in 1/4-turn increments in reverse order of the tightening sequence, then lift the cylinder head off the engine block, carefully prying if it is stuck. Remove all external components from the head for thorough cleaning and inspection. Ensure the mating surfaces of the cylinder head and block are perfectly clean before installation, using a gasket scraper and cleaning with lacquer thinner or acetone. Check for nicks or damage on the mating surfaces, chasing threads in the head bolt holes with a tap and cleaning with compressed air. Measure each cylinder head bolt for stretching, replacing any that exceed the maximum stretch. Check the cylinder head for warpage and inspect the head gasket, intake, and exhaust manifold surfaces. Install the components that were removed, position the new cylinder head gasket over the dowel pins, and carefully set the head on the block without disturbing the gasket. Apply clean engine oil to the threads and hardened washers of the head bolts, then install and tighten them in several steps following the proper sequence to the specified torque. Remove old sealant from the rear timing chain cover and bolts, apply RTV sealant to the sealing surfaces, install new O-rings, and position the rear timing chain cover, tightening the bolts to the specified torque. Install the camshafts, and complete the remaining installation steps in reverse order of removal. If any part of the valve train was replaced, check and adjust the valve clearance. Refill the cooling system and check the engine oil, adding if necessary, then start the engine and check for oil and coolant leaks.