Dismantling automatic transmission by car Nissan Almera is a large-scale operation that requires not only specialized tools, but also a deep understanding of the design of a front-wheel drive vehicle. Many owners are faced with the need for this procedure when replacing a torque converter, repairing a cooling radiator, or when completely replacing a unit with a contract one.
Removal process Automatic transmission is associated with a number of risks associated with the weight of the unit and the difficulty of access to fasteners. Errors at the stage of disconnecting sensors or draining technical fluids can lead to serious damage or injury. In this article, we will analyze the key stages of work so that you can assess the volume of tasks or monitor the actions of specialists in the service.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
It is extremely important to organize a safe space before starting work. You will need a pit or lift as access to the bottom Nissan Almera limited. The vehicle must be securely supported and the steering wheel locked to prevent accidental movement of the vehicle.
The list of tools includes a standard set of sockets and wrenches, but special attention should be paid to extensions and cardan shafts. Without them, get to the mounting bolts torque converter and upper engine mounts will be almost impossible. It is also necessary to have a jack with the ability to adjust the height of the pallet.
- 🔧 Set of sockets from 10 to 21 mm with extensions
- 🔩 Socket wrenches for unscrewing the crankcase protection
- 🛢 Container for draining transmission fluid (volume more than 6 liters)
- 🏗 Gearbox support stand (hydraulic jack)
- 🧼 Rags and means for degreasing surfaces
Don't forget to prepare personal protective equipment. Working with waste oil and heavy parts requires gloves and safety glasses. The cleanliness of the workplace directly affects the speed of searching for unscrewed bolts and prevents dirt from getting into open components.
Dismantling of attachments and systems
The first step is to free up space around gearboxes. It is necessary to remove the battery, air filter and housing assembly. This will give access to the top mounting bolts starter and speed sensors, which often interfere with the free removal of the unit.
Next, disconnect all electrical connectors going to the gearbox. Pay attention to the throttle position sensor connectors, if they are located near the transmission, and the control solenoid connectors. Label wires to avoid confusion when reassembling.
⚠️ Attention: Before disconnecting the battery, make sure that the ignition is completely turned off, otherwise a short circuit may damage the engine control unit or the automatic transmission itself.
Disconnect the gear shift rod from the lever on the box. This is a metal cable or rod that requires careful removal of the clamp. After this, dismantle the exhaust system in the area of the manifold and exhaust pipe, as they often block the path for removing the pan or clutch housing.
Draining technical fluids and removing the pan
Draining transmission fluid ATF - a mandatory procedure. If you plan to completely replace the gearbox, the oil still needs to be drained to reduce the overall weight of the unit. Unscrew the drain plug on the pan and let the oil drain into the prepared container. Be careful, the oil may be very hot if the engine was running before starting work.
After draining the main volume of oil, it is necessary to remove the oil pan. It is attached to many bolts around the perimeter. Unscrew them crosswise so as not to deform the pallet body. The pan may be stuck, so use a plastic scraper to carefully remove the caulk.
- 🛢 Check the condition of the magnets at the bottom of the tray - metal shavings indicate internal wear
- 🧽 Clean the coarse filter if it is accessible after removing the pan
- 🔍 Inspect the pan seal for cracks and deformations
It is also important to drain the coolant from the automatic transmission radiator. Usually, this requires disconnecting the tubes going from the radiator to the box. Be prepared for some of the antifreeze to leak out when the pipes are disconnected.
Disconnecting the engine and torque converter
This is the most critical stage. It is necessary to unscrew the mounting bolts torque converter to the engine flywheel. To do this, you will need to rotate the crankshaft through the generator pulley or a special hole in the crankcase. There are usually six bolts, and they are arranged in a circle.
After unscrewing the flywheel bolts, disconnect the engine mount that connects the block to the body or subframe. On Nissan Almera Often there is a front support that needs to be completely removed or the bolts securing it to the subframe unscrewed.
- Very difficult, service needed
- It's difficult, but I can handle it
- I don't know how it's done
- Simply, I have experience.
Do not forget to unscrew the bolts securing the clutch housing (gearbox) to the engine block. There are usually 4 to 6 of them, and they are located in hard-to-reach places. Use universal joints and extensions to avoid damaging adjacent parts.
⚠️ Attention: Before completely disconnecting the box, make sure that the torque converter is completely free from the flywheel. If you try to remove the box with the flange attached, you will break the torque converter housing or splines.
Final dismantling and removal of the unit
Place a hydraulic jack under the transmission pan. Place a wooden board to prevent damage to the aluminum crankcase. Smoothly lift the jack, supporting the weight of the unit. This is critical as the box weighs over 50kg.
Now you can completely lower the box down, moving it away from the engine. Movements should be smooth and careful. Make sure that the spline shaft fits into the torque converter hub smoothly and without distortion. When extracting Automatic transmission on Nissan Almera An assistant is often required to hold the unit on the other side.
☑️ Control before removing the box
After removing the box, carefully inspect the engine flywheel. If there are traces of oil leakage from the front crankshaft oil seal, it must be replaced. Also check the condition of the clutch basket (if equipped) and the condition of the torque converter gears.
The removed unit must be placed on a special stand or placed on a flat surface on a wooden pallet. Do not place the box on the side edges or the torque converter housing to avoid deformation.
Typical errors and technical nuances
Many craftsmen make the mistake of trying to remove the box without first dismantling the subframe. On some modifications Nissan Almera this is necessary because the subframe blocks access to the lower mounting bolts. Check the service documentation for your specific model year.
Another common problem is the loss of bolts or broken wires during careless dismantling. Use magnets to collect small parts and do not forcefully pull on wires unless they come loose. You may have missed a mounting bolt.
| element | Typical problem | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Torque converter | Damage to splines during removal | Check engagement before removal |
| Automatic transmission pan | Cracks when unscrewing | Use a plastic scraper |
| Sensor connectors | Broken fasteners | Press the latch, do not pull the wire |
| Engine mounts | Bolt sticking | Use penetrating lubricant in advance |
Pay attention to the condition of the seals. When removing Automatic transmission The input shaft seal is often damaged. It is recommended to replace it immediately, even if it appears intact, to avoid future leaks.
What to do with the torque converter after removal?
The torque converter can be removed from the box separately, but this requires a special stand. If you're just removing the box, leave it in, but make sure it doesn't fall off when you take it out.
Old sealant will not provide a proper seal and will lead to leaks.
Final Recommendations
After successfully removing the unit, perform a complete diagnostic of the engine and attachments. Often, it is after removing the box that hidden defects are discovered, such as wear of seals or damage to hoses.
If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust this work to professionals. Removal errors can result in costly engine or transmission repairs. The key success factor is the correct sequence of actions and the use of a quality tool.
Remember that Nissan Almera has its own design features that differ from other models. Always check the technical documentation for your specific vehicle before starting work.
⚠️ Attention: After removing the gearbox, be sure to check the oil level in the engine and top it up if necessary, as some of the oil may have leaked through the front oil seal.
Keep all bolts in separate containers with markings so that during assembly you do not confuse long bolts with short ones, which can lead to damage to the automatic transmission housing.
How long does it take to remove an automatic transmission on a Nissan Almera?
On average, the process of removing a gearbox takes from 4 to 6 hours if you have the necessary tools and experience. Without experience and with limited conditions (a pit instead of a lift), the time can increase to 8-10 hours.
Do I need to remove the engine to remove the gearbox on a Nissan Almera?
In most cases, it is not necessary to remove the engine. Just unscrew the supports and push the box back. However, on some modifications it may be necessary to remove the subframe for free access.
Is it possible to remove the automatic transmission without draining the oil?
Theoretically it is possible, but it is highly not recommended. The weight of the unit will increase, and when removing the pan or pipes, oil will spill onto the floor, creating a risk of slipping and contamination. In addition, some of the oil will remain inside, making work difficult.
What to do if the torque converter bolts won't come off?
Use penetrating lubricant and heat. Try cranking the engine by the crankshaft pulley to get to all the bolts. Do not use excessive force to avoid stripping the threads.
Proper preparation and sequence of actions are the key to successful removal of the automatic transmission without damaging other components of the car.