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Engine

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Credit: Wyatt H.

I’ve now had two separate incidents where my blower motor failed because of critters. When I opened the cabin air filter housing, I didn’t find debris—I found feathers and a full-on nest. It was so bad that my K&N reusable filter couldn’t even be saved.

If you’ve dealt with the same issue, here’s a simple and inexpensive fix:
Head to your local hardware store (Lowe’s or Home Depot works great) and pick up some gutter mesh. I came across this solution on a forum, installed it, and it’s been a game changer.

Bonus: I had extra mesh left over, so now I’m adding it to my other vehicles too.

Cheap, easy, and it might save you from replacing a blower motor down the road.

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Credit: Josh Go Hard Neal

Order Link: https://eccppautoparts.com/stainless-steel-racing-exhaust-header-manifold-for-nissan-altima-for-vq35de-v6.html

Description: 2002-2006 Nissan Altima 2.5L Exhaust Manifold Racing Header Stainless Steel
Part Number: 102233
Price: $158.59 (Shipped)

Important Note:

  • These show 2.5L vs 3.5L. Josh confirmed they are for the 3.5L and he installed on his Maxima. He is local to them.
  • As you’re aware these require modification of y-pipe for perfect fitment. Please research it. This has always been known with the Altima VQ35DE headers. They are NOT plug-n-play. But for the price, they are very well worth it. These also come with a downpipe so it makes an even more awesome price.
  • A few maxima members have already ordered and confirmed this is a legit shop. They’ve received their ordered with no issues.

As of 12/29/2025

Install Fitment Issue / Correction Reference

General Photos

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Credit: Christopher H.

CV axle had a torn boot, so I decided to try out a universal replacement instead of pulling the whole axle. The quality was actually surprisingly good — durable material and a solid fit.

After gluing the two halves together, I gave it a few hard pulls to test it and it didn’t budge. While I was at it, I also cleaned and coated the other boots with some goop to help prevent future tears.

I’ve gone this route before and never had any issues, so we’ll see how this one holds up — but so far, I’m impressed.

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I came across a 2012 Maxima engine, but unfortunately it has a burned-up bottom end. I also have a good 2003 VQ35DE, and I was wondering if there’s any benefit to running a fresh set of 2012 pistons in the 2003 block, while keeping the ’03 rods.

For reference, the 2012 piston is on the left.

I got access to a scale and recorded the following component weights:

Pistons

  • 2012: 383.4 g
  • 2003: 396.4 g

Wrist Pins

  • 2012: 99.2 g
  • 2003: 105.7 g

Connecting Rods

  • 2012: 590.0 g
  • 2003: 589.3 g

The combustion height is the same for both pistons.

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