Nissan Repair: drivetrain, nissan maxima se, wheel drive cars

Question
QUESTION: I've got a 1993 Nissan Maxima SE 5 Speed DOCH 3.0 24VALVE Engine, now im not really sure what it is but when I drive typically normal its not noticeable but when either I floor it or try to go faster it feels one side of tbe car pulls more and turns my steering wheel a little and then it pulls less/ My dad says it could be the CV joint but not sure//another question is, my dad had the 1989 Automatic maxima 3.0 and he fixed himself the CV Joints on that but I was wondering is it the same or will he need to know how to fix this model?im sorry but another problem is the Mph gauge doesn't work everything else does RPM, GAS...Is that a sensor or fuse or what???

Thank you for your time.

ANSWER: Diego,

The CV joint design is much the same and replacement is identical.  But, you need to see if yours really need to be replaced.  If the boots are good and there is no click the torque steer is normal.  If you hold the steering wheel and take off it will pull a little and then go back.  One driveshaft is longer than the other and as a result the short one spins up while the long one torques up.  Then it unloads and equalizes with the short one.  A normal part of wront wheel drive cars.  The MPH is just a matter of replacement of the vehicle speed sensor.  It is on the transmission where the speedometer cable used to install.  A simple replacement.  Just get one and look at the transmission, between the firewall and transmission you should see it if you look down by the brake master cylinder.  You can jack it up and access it from the bottom too.  rockauto.com or courtesyparts.com are both good sources for the sensor.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I went under checked them and they are in good condition but what still bothers me is that when I speed up or floor it I jerks a little my steer to the right and I forgot to mention that the car seems really slow for that engine size, I don't think its the clutch because it doesn't slip at all. what do I need to replace to eliminate that problem??and the speed sensor was the fix.(to be more specific)if your driving at limit speed or don't really gas it you can't feel it jerk the steering wheel but you once you try to get speed or almost floor it, it feels like my steering wheel is turning by itself but if I let go of the gas it quits pulling to the side. I can't be the alignment or balance because when I drive normal the car goes straight without me holding the wheel...im really  angry because I can't seem to know what's the problem.(just bought the car 1 week ago)ive also checked all fluid levels for steering,brakes...
I appreciate your time.

Answer
Diego,

The CV driveshafts are what they are and torque steer is normal.  However, you have given me thought that the distributor might be defective.  Also, check the plugs to see that they are new or recently replaced.  Lastly, check the engine timing and you should find your horsepower.  I would also suggest a K&N air filter.