If you're looking to remove the transmission from a 2010 Nissan Murano All-Wheel Drive (AWD), you've come to the right place! This job might sound daunting, but with the right tools, patience, and guidance, you can do it yourself and save on expensive mechanic bills.
Preparation for Transmission Removal
Before jumping into the heavy lifting of removing the transmission, you'll need to make sure you have everything in place to get started. This includes tools, safety measures, and understanding the steps to safely and efficiently disconnect your transmission. Taking time at the beginning will ensure that the removal process goes as smoothly as possible.
Gather the Right Tools and Equipment
When you're ready to start removing the transmission, it's essential to have the right tools on hand. Here's a list of the basic tools you'll need:
- Jack and Jack Stands: To lift the vehicle and secure it in place.
- Socket Set: A comprehensive socket set with deep sockets will help with hard-to-reach bolts.
- Torque Wrench: To ensure that bolts are tightened to the correct specifications.
- Transmission Jack: A specialized tool for supporting and lowering the transmission safely.
- Breaker Bar: To loosen stubborn bolts.
- Flathead and Phillips Screwdrivers: For removing various clips and small parts.
- Pry Bars: To separate the transmission from the engine.
- Ratchet Wrench: For quicker removal of bolts.
- Fluid Drain Pan: To catch transmission fluid when draining.
You'll also want to gather any safety equipment, including gloves and goggles. Working with heavy parts like the transmission requires caution, so make sure to protect yourself.
Raise the Vehicle Safely
To start, you'll need to lift your 2010 Nissan Murano AWD off the ground. This is an important first step because you need enough space to work under the vehicle. Use a floor jack to lift the front of the vehicle, and once it’s elevated, secure it with jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the jack stands are positioned securely before you start working.
Disconnect the Battery
Once your vehicle is safely lifted, disconnect the negative battery cable. This is a safety step to ensure you don’t accidentally trigger the airbags, cause electrical shorts, or experience any other issues while working with electrical components.
Drain the Transmission Fluid
Before removing the transmission, it's essential to drain the transmission fluid. This will help prevent any mess and make it easier to handle the transmission later. Place a fluid drain pan under the transmission, remove the drain plug, and let the fluid empty out. Dispose of the old transmission fluid according to local regulations.
Removing the Transmission
With the preparations out of the way, it's time to start removing the transmission. This process involves disassembling several components, including the exhaust system, driveshaft, and other parts connected to the transmission. Each step must be done carefully to avoid damaging components or losing any critical parts.
Remove the Driveshaft and Exhaust System
Start by removing the driveshaft from the rear differential. To do this, you'll need to unbolt the driveshaft from both the transmission and the rear differential. It's usually secured with four bolts that you can remove with a wrench.
Next, remove the exhaust system. You'll need to unbolt the exhaust components connected to the transmission. Depending on your Murano model, there might be a couple of hangers that hold the exhaust pipes in place. Use your wrenches to remove these parts.
Disconnect the Transmission Linkages
The next step is to disconnect the transmission linkages. This involves removing the shift linkage, throttle cables, and other connected components. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding these parts in place. Be sure to label or take notes of the connections so that reassembly will be easier later.
Remove the Torque Converter Bolts
The torque converter is a crucial component that connects the transmission to the engine. To remove the transmission, you must first disconnect the torque converter from the flywheel. There are usually three or four bolts securing it to the flywheel. Remove these bolts, and be sure to keep track of their placement for reassembly.
Unbolt the Transmission from the Engine
Now that the major components are disconnected, it's time to unbolt the transmission from the engine. Start by locating the bolts that secure the transmission bell housing to the engine. These can often be hard to access, so be patient. You may need to use a long extension on your ratchet wrench to reach the bolts. Remove each bolt one at a time.
Support the Transmission with a Transmission Jack
At this point, the transmission is only loosely attached to the engine, and you don't want it to fall. Using a transmission jack, carefully support the transmission. Slowly lower it and move it away from the engine. Be gentle to avoid any damage, and keep an eye on any remaining connections that need to be disconnected.
Lower and Remove the Transmission
Once you have everything disconnected and supported, you can finally lower the transmission. Use the transmission jack to guide it out of place. Once it's free, carefully remove the transmission from under the vehicle. At this point, you've successfully removed the transmission!
Troubleshooting and Tips for Success
Removing a transmission from a 2010 Nissan Murano AWD can be tricky, and you might run into a few challenges along the way. Here are some tips to help you troubleshoot common problems during the process.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
- Stubborn Bolts: If you encounter bolts that are rusted or too tight, try using a penetrating oil like WD-40 to loosen them up. Let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove the bolts again.
- Difficulty Reaching Bolts: Some bolts may be in tight spaces, making them hard to reach. Using an extension or a universal joint adapter on your socket wrench can give you the flexibility needed to reach these hard-to-access bolts.
- Transmission Weight: The transmission is heavy, and it can be difficult to maneuver without the right tools. A transmission jack is essential for safely lowering and handling the transmission. Don't attempt to remove it without one.
- Fluid Leaks: Ensure the transmission fluid is completely drained before removal. Otherwise, you could make a mess when you take the transmission out.
Reassembly Tips
Reassembling the transmission can be a challenge if you don't follow the correct steps. As you take the transmission apart, be sure to label all the components, bolts, and connections. When it's time to reinstall the new or rebuilt transmission, work carefully and follow each step in reverse order. Don't rush, and double-check all connections before tightening bolts.
I hope these tips help make your transmission removal job easier and more efficient. With patience and careful attention to detail, you can successfully remove and replace the transmission in your 2010 Nissan Murano AWD.
I hope this guide gives you the confidence to tackle the job of removing the transmission from your 2010 Nissan Murano AWD. While it's not an easy task, with the right preparation, tools, and patience, you can successfully complete it yourself. Always remember to take safety precautions and work at a pace that's comfortable for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it difficult to remove the transmission from a 2010 Nissan Murano AWD?
Removing the transmission from a 2010 Nissan Murano AWD is a challenging task that requires a fair amount of mechanical knowledge and experience. While it is possible to do it yourself, it can be physically demanding and time-consuming. If you’re a beginner, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic or someone with more experience for assistance. Having the right tools, safety measures, and following the correct steps will make the process easier.
Can I remove the transmission from my 2010 Nissan Murano AWD without a transmission jack?
While it’s technically possible to remove the transmission without a transmission jack, it is highly not recommended. The transmission is heavy, and removing it without proper support can be dangerous and cause injury or damage to your vehicle. A transmission jack provides the necessary support and makes the job much safer and easier to handle.
Do I need to drain the transmission fluid before removing the transmission?
Yes, it's crucial to drain the transmission fluid before removing the transmission. This prevents messy spills and ensures the fluid doesn’t leak everywhere while you're working. Make sure to dispose of the old transmission fluid properly.
Is it necessary to remove the exhaust system during transmission removal?
Yes, in most cases, the exhaust system will need to be removed to gain access to the transmission. The exhaust pipes and other components are usually in the way and must be unbolted to allow you to work on the transmission.
Can I remove the transmission by myself or should I have help?
While it is possible to remove the transmission by yourself, it is a heavy and cumbersome part to deal with. Having a helper can make the job much easier, especially when it comes to lowering or maneuvering the transmission out of the vehicle.
Do I need to replace the torque converter when removing the transmission?
If you're replacing the transmission, it's often a good idea to replace the torque converter as well. The torque converter can wear out over time and may not function as efficiently in a new transmission. It's generally recommended to replace it when performing major transmission work.
Is there a risk of damaging other parts when removing the transmission?
Yes, there's always a risk of damaging other components, especially if you're not careful during the removal process. It's essential to follow the steps precisely, take your time, and ensure all components are disconnected properly. If you’re unsure, consult a professional.
Can I reuse the transmission bolts?
Transmission bolts can usually be reused as long as they aren’t damaged, stripped, or excessively worn. When reassembling your transmission, check each bolt carefully for any signs of damage. If a bolt is in bad shape, it's best to replace it to avoid problems during reassembly.