To fix Frontiers and Xterras, you need to start by taking the
Timing Belt and crankshaft sprocket off, then the oil pan. Take both the alternator and its mounting brackets loose from their position on the engine. Detach the power steering pump keeping its hoses on, then lay it safely to the side. Take off the power steering pump bracket. Carefully loosen and take off the bolts holding the oil pick-up tube to the bottom of the engine, remove the bracket that supports the pick-up tube, and pull the tube free from the oil pump. When clearing the front end of the engine, keep the oil filter adapter bolted to the pump while removing the connecting bolts between the engine and oil pump. Rock the oil pump away from the engine to release the seal, and pull it off the two blocks holding it in place. Scrape to remove all old gasket material and sealant before washing both joints with light carpers. Take out the screws keeping the back cover on the oil pump. Wash all components with solvent, and check for wear or damage signs before you begin. Before replacing them, check for faulty springs and valves on the oil pressure regulator cap while you remove cap, washer, spring, and valve from the pump. Check oil pump part clearances with gauges. Replace entire pump if any gaps are too big. Dip the oil pump in petroleum jelly to make sure it works, then set and fasten all screws properly. Place the oil pressure regulator valve, spring, and washer, and tighten down the cap. Fit the oil pump-to-block gasket above the dowels on the engine block, make sure the crankshaft flat faces line up with the oil pump rotor, place the oil pump on the block, and bolt it down by tightening all fasteners to their prescribed torque. Put a fresh oil seal on the tube pick-up tube's flange, reattach it carefully, and tighten the bolts to meet the right torque requirements. Make sure you replace the rubber end seals between the oil pump and the lower timing belt cover right before you put everything back together.