So we've established that the 2008+ radiator is different and requires a little more work to bypass the internal cooler. Can anyone post a complete list of parts/instructions on what you did?
I'm looking to do this but based on a couple posts I've seen it looks like it needs a longer hose which I assume everyone has used rubber (which I'm not a fan). Trying to decide if I want to do it this way or just replace the radiator with an updated part. I really don't like to chance a transmission with a bad connection or bad rubber hose.
Bypass Radiator on 2008+
Moderator: volvite
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I'm at 85k miles....so out of warranty as far as I'm concerned.
There were several changes starting in 2008 for the PF (and not the Frontier) because of the V8 option. The radiator is the same between V6 and V8 models...but the connection spots for the tranny/cooler are opposite sides I believe which requires a longer connection in order to bypass. I crawled under there awhile back and compared to the process others have posted and it's not as easy as the '05-'07. I'm not crazy about using a rubber connector.
There were several changes starting in 2008 for the PF (and not the Frontier) because of the V8 option. The radiator is the same between V6 and V8 models...but the connection spots for the tranny/cooler are opposite sides I believe which requires a longer connection in order to bypass. I crawled under there awhile back and compared to the process others have posted and it's not as easy as the '05-'07. I'm not crazy about using a rubber connector.
R&R on the radiator is a pain in the tail, mostly due to the bolt-on side bracket mounts and trying to clear the AC condensor lines as your remove/install the radiator. Also, the condensor used the same mount as the radiator, so it has to be lifted out of the mount and supported. The labor guide calls for around 3 hours, IIRC. I did mine while working on the timing chain. $500 is way to much to spend for a replacement radiator. I got mine from Parts Express on Ebay for $92/lifetime warranty/free shipping. It was made in China, but appeared to be well-constructed. If you want something made in North America, go with Spectra Premium radiators, which are made in Canada.
'11+ models are supposed to have the "improved" radiator. Time will tell I suppose...but I'd never do the by-pass during warranty. Some sort of freak problem and you might just give them an excuse to void the warranty. I don't believe I've ever seen a radiator fail before the 60k miles powertrain is up so you should be safe for quite awhile. Mine is still fine at 85k and I"ve not bypassed...but I'm replacing the radiator as soon as I get some time.Jegan wrote:Does the bypass need to be done on the 2012's? I am going to be buying a new Pathfinder S soon and I was wondering if Nissan has done anything to change or fix the problem? Thanks.
J
The average Joe is not going to get a new free radiator/transmission unless this happens to take place during the powertrain warranty. I've not seen many posts where that's the case and the pathetic extended warranty Nissan has offered isn't worth beans in my book.tlee_20 wrote:Actually most of you are mis-informed...
My 08 SE will be getting a new radiator/trans soon..
My trans will be a BRAND NEW transmission because there are no remans available for mine right now.
Some of you dealer haters need to pull your head out of your ass
Tell us more about your radiator/transmission problem. Very few have posted with '08+ models with problems. How many miles? Symptoms? I'm trying to keep an eye on mine until I can get the radiator swapped. Mainly watching the radiator fluid at the cap, but any other hints would be helpful.
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