Nissan Repair: transmission maintenance, pan gasket, grease gun

Question
Dear Sir I have 2002 pathfinder 4x4 le with 32000 miles and because i have lost faith in the ability of mechanics to do a job right i wonder if it is necessary that i change my tranny fluid. I dont use a tow and have normal city driving habits.  I also would like to know if a need a specific tool to grease the driveshaft by way of the niples.  thank you very much

Answer
John,

You can get a grease gun and lubricate all suspension points that have zerk fittings.  There are not too many as most are sealed these days.  Now, on the transmission, if it is automatic you can get a new filter and pan gasket and drain and replace the fluid.  it should take about four quarts and use what is recommended.  Remember that you are not getting it all since there is much more in the torque converter.  Now, if it is a manual it will take about 2.5 quarts to do the change and there is a drain plug on bottom and a fill plug on the side.  Use only Nissan fluid to keep that warranty going in either case.  On the automatic, if you have one, be sure to check the fluid, when hot, on a flat surface, with the truck running in park.  Pull the stick and wipe it and stick it back in and pull it again to get an accurate reading and never overfill or underfill as it will hurt the transmission.