OK this sucks but somehow it happened again. The timing chain jumped a tooth again. This is the 3rd time I'll be re-doing this on my X. But with help from Clark over at Jim Wolf Technologies in El Cajon, CA, I was able to find some interesting facts about the VQ40DE and similarities with the Skyline GT-R VR38DETT engines built by Nismo's Takumi division. (JWT is currently building several IMSA race-class VQ40DE motors for Nissan).
1.) Everyone knows that the early 2nd genic steroids add bad timing chains and timing chain guides and tensioners. Because Nissan shares the VQ blocks with the 350Z, 370Z, rare JDM Juke-R, Skyline GTR, Pathfinder, Frontier and Xterra's, they all have interchangeable parts for the engines.
2.) The pictures below shows a Nissan Skyline timing chain and main timing chain guide compared to an aftermarket replacement. Notice the additional gussets and beefiness of the newer OEM units compared to aftermarket parts. The OEM Nissan Skyline VR38 timing chain is also beefier & slightly heavier that the aftermarket timing chain. JWT alsp said that the '03-06 350Z VQ35DE (and VQ35HR) parts flow more oil & have improved cooling, starting the that head gasket designs. That a Tech Support bulletin that shows very detailed pictures on where to grind away aluminum for improved cooling, head gasket differences between the many engine block models and even the type of head bolt that should be used.
3.) Also pictured is a new Stillen Racing Aluminum main pulley for both VQ35, VQ40 & VR38 motors. Available as a standard-size replacement or an undersized version (which requires a smaller diameter of serpentine belt, yields 1-2hp more). The difference is quite literally 1/2 lb vs. 16 lbs of rotating mass, good for 3-4hp/5-6 ft. Lbs of torque.
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