B14 Cluth Replacement Question

jvaruzzo · Aug 23rd, 2003, 04:28 PM

Hey guys, if anyone could help I would greatly appreciate it.

I'm in the process of replacing the clutch on my 97 Sentra GLE. So far I've removed the starter, air intake, battery (for extra room), wheels, eletctrical connectors, etc. I'm stuck for tonight because I don't have a big enough socket for the hub bolt.

I've been using the Haynes manual as a guide, as well as a lot of good information I found off this forum. I'm sure I'll have many questions to come over the next few days, but as for now, I have two questions.

1) Is it nescessary to remove anything from the exhaust system ? Haynes manual reccomends removing the downpipe, yet I see no reason why this would have to be done since it goes right down the middle of the car, under the engine, and the tranny (so it appears). I saw a post that said to "access the oil pan". Why do I need to access the oil pan removing the transaxle ?

2) My second question concerns the drain for the transaxle fluid. I've soaked the phillips head screw in WD-40 and am letting it sit. It seems VERY tight, and I'm sure it's never been removed, and I'm somewhat frustrated that it's a screw as opposed to a bolt. Any advice (before I strip the screw) on how to remove that screw, and lowering the risk of strpping it, and what would happen if I did strip it ?!

I realize I just signed on to the forum, and I'm not sure if this post is appropriate in new member area, but if anyone could help I'd greatly appreciate it!

Thanks,
Justin

nastynissan · Aug 23rd, 2003, 04:44 PM

Im not sure about a 97 but on the 91-94s I remove the down pipe so the engine can be lowered a small amount to help ease removal/ installation...

As far as removing the Hub bolt it shouldnt be necessary to remove the axle... Pop the lower Ball Joint apart (see manual) and you should be able to get the axles out the tranny and out of the way.. Youll have to turn the steering wheel to the side your working on to get enough room.. OH YEA dropping the downpipe helps here also.

As far as the drain plug is concerned. You may have to get a Phillips head for your ratchet or They make a bolt/ screw remover but it would have to be done out of car to have enough room.. But on the bright side the tranny can be removed without draining the fluid.... Just have a drrainpan ready when you pull the axles and ALOT of rags under the car to catch the rest..

Like I said though this applies to 91-94... Im not certain bout yours.. but since its the same engine/ tranny Im assuming its close.

Katana200sx · Aug 24th, 2003, 12:50 AM

thats pretty much correct....althoigh i dont understand the phillips head drain plug thing. mine drains using a 1/2" drive and 3/8" drive ratchets.