head gasket replacement instructions needed

2002 NISSAN ALTIMA
138,000 MILES • 2.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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DANIEL BEBEE
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  • 3 POSTS
could you please send me a step by step on repairing the head gasket on my car listed above? Thank you for your time.
May 27, 2021 at 6:20 PM
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KASEKENNY
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In the event you need it or others that may visit this page. Here is a guide that will help with testing the head gasket:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Below you will find the process from the manual on the cylinder head/head gasket.

Please run through this and let us know if you need more info. Thanks
May 28, 2021 at 5:48 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

The removal of the cylinder head requires the timing chain to also be removed. I am going to first provide the directions for cylinder head removal and replacement. After that, the directions for timing chain removal and replacement will be added.

Please keep this in mind. All Nissan engines are interference engines. Correct engine timing is a must. If the timing isn't done correctly, internal engine damage will likely occur.

Note: The directions are showing the engine being removed. I believe you should be able to support the engine and transaxle, remove motor mounts and then remove the head without removing the engine. It will be tight on the timing chain side, so you may find it helpful to remove the inner fender and right-front tire (timing chain side) so you can access things easier.

Also, the directions for the timing chain include seal replacement. This would be a good time to replace the crank seal, timing chains, tensioners, and guides. The directions for the chain start with pic 8 below.



Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
May 28, 2021 at 6:17 PM
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