Nissan Repair: 2002 Maxima 6 Speed Manual, input shaft, manual transmissions

Question
Von Sudderth,

Hello recently purchased a 2002 Maxima 6-speed (35000mi). I have noticed some squeaking lately, I figured it was just a belt.  After lubricating the belts, the squeak was still present.   Upon further investigation I found that the sound is related to the transmission.  The sound disappears when you engage the clutch (throw out bearing?).  Is this a problem on this particular car/ transmission? Any suggestions on a solution?
The clutch is seems great, no chatter, whining, or slippage.  

Furthermore, I have noticed the gearbox is leaking around a gasket.  I know it has a 5 year 60k power train warranty.  I am hoping this is covered and that I can attribute the squealing to this?  Any thoughts on a path forward?

Thanks in advance,

Brian  

Answer
Brian,

It is the input shaft bearing.  I had to replace it on my 350Z for the same reason.  If the noise just started then you should change to a synthetic gear grease that has the same specifications as the factory requires.  Tf changing to synthetic does not do the trick then look at changing the input shaft bearing.  The reason these fail is there is no lubrication on startup.  The transmission gets its lubrication when it is movign down the road, in gear.  If the previous owner let the car warm up before driving it caused the bearing to run dry.  All modern manual transmissions have this design.  So, if you get it to quiet down or replaced remember to start the car and after the oil pressure comes up get to driving to get the gear grease splashed around and pumped through the gears.