I was wondering if anyone out there has ever tried an engine upgrade in an early model Pathfinder. I’ve already converted my 1991 SE into a work vehicle, and since I’m selling the Dodge work van (10MPG), I’m preparing myself for the possibility of a mechanical failure without a backup vehicle. The Pathfinder still runs great, the tranny shows no signs of wear, and the chassis is solid. But at 165k, I expect that things will start to fail, and I can’t afford to lose workdays resulting from transportation problems. Since the original V6 puts out an anemic 158HP and still manages to average less than 20MPG, I am considering replacing the VG30E with a low mileage VG30DE from a 300ZX.
I can already picture your eyes rolling, but bear with me. A 24-vlave version of the 3.0L V6 puts out 225HP, 210 lb-ft of torque, AND better gas mileage. In addition, I suspect that the only major difference between the two engines is that one has 12-valve SOHC heads while the other has 24-valve DOHC heads, so swapping shouldn’t be overly complicated.
I love my Pathfinder, so an expensive modification is worth more to me than replacing the car. At the same time, why pay for another powerless engine when you could upgrade. Has anyone tried this conversion?
I can already picture your eyes rolling, but bear with me. A 24-vlave version of the 3.0L V6 puts out 225HP, 210 lb-ft of torque, AND better gas mileage. In addition, I suspect that the only major difference between the two engines is that one has 12-valve SOHC heads while the other has 24-valve DOHC heads, so swapping shouldn’t be overly complicated.
I love my Pathfinder, so an expensive modification is worth more to me than replacing the car. At the same time, why pay for another powerless engine when you could upgrade. Has anyone tried this conversion?