How to remove the upper oil pan on a 2011 Nissan Armada.

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to remove the upper oil pan from a 2011 Nissan Armada. The process is quite similar for the 1st Gen Nissan Titan and Infiniti QX56, and it is primarily aimed at DIY enthusiasts looking to perform maintenance or repairs on their vehicles.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
• Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical issues.
• Lift the vehicle using jack stands for safe access underneath.

Step 2: Remove the Rack and Pinion

• Disconnect the tie rod end from the rack and pinion.
• Remove the bolts securing the rack and pinion.
• Detach the inlet and outlet lines from the steering gear.

Step 3: Remove the Sway Bar

• Unbolt the sway bar; this will provide additional clearance for the rack and pinion removal.

Step 4: Remove the Oil Filter and Adapter

• Use a 22 mm socket to remove the oil filter adapter.
• Ensure you have a catch pan ready for any oil that may spill.

Step 5: Remove the Alternator Bracket

• Remove the two 12 mm bolts holding the alternator bracket in place.
• Disconnect the AC compressor bracket with a 14 mm bolt.

Step 6: Remove the Lower Oil Pan

• Take out all bolts securing the lower oil pan.
• Note that one bolt inside the lower oil pan affects upper oil pan removal.

Step 7: Detach Additional Components

• Remove any other components obstructing access, such as:
  • Oil pickup and drain lines
  • Transmission bolts (three bolts need to be removed)

Step 8: Remove the Upper Oil Pan

• Unbolt the upper oil pan using a mix of short and long bolts (the longer bolts are typically on the passenger side).
• Be cautious of an O-ring that is part of the oil filter adapter; ensure it is properly seated to avoid leaks.

Step 9: Clean the Surface

• Clean the mating surfaces of the oil pan and engine block to ensure a good seal for reinstallation.

Step 10: Reinstall the Upper Oil Pan

• Position the upper oil pan back in place.
• Secure with all relevant bolts, ensuring the correct lengths are used in the appropriate locations.

Step 11: Reassemble Other Components

• Reinstall the lower oil pan, oil pickup, and any other components that were removed.
• Reattach the alternator and AC compressor brackets.

Step 12: Reinstall the Rack and Pinion

• Bolt the rack and pinion back in place and reconnect the tie rod ends.
• Ensure all lines are properly connected and secured.

Conclusion

Removing the upper oil pan on a Nissan Armada can be a challenging task due to the number of components involved. By following these steps, you can successfully complete the job. Remember to check for any missing components, like O-rings, and ensure everything is reassembled correctly to prevent leaks. If you have further questions or need detailed assistance, consider consulting a repair manual or seeking professional help.