Nissan Repair: Nissan Frontier transmission and radiator, nissan frontier, radiator cap

Question
Von,
Thanks so much for the info.  Can you give me an estimate of how much I would be looking on the synchro and gear replacement including the clutch?  Unfortunately I have run into some less than honest repair shops who have tried to take advantage of me being a woman so I try to come prepared.  Thanks for all your help!
Lisa

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Followup To
Question -
Hi Von,

I have a 2001 Nissan Frontier with approx 102k miles on it.  I have 2 problems that I am looking for advice on.  

It overheats when I use the AC to the point where I need to put the heat on to cool the engine.  It also overheats on a warm day even with no AC on.  It does not over heat on a cool day or when strictly using the heater.  I am expecting to have to replace the radiator.  What cost range should I be looking at if that is the issue?  Can you think of anything else it could be?

The second issue is that it makes a grinding noise when I downshift into 2nd.  The mechanic said it was the synchromesh and if it wasn't replaced once it went it would require a new transmission.  Does this make sense?  They told me to repair it would mean pulling out the transmission in order to get to it and would be quite pricey labor wise.  Does it sound liek a synchromesh problem, and if I don't repair it and wait for the clutch to go before repairing am I looking at any possible bigger problems?  I have not had any other problems with the clutch.

Thanks!
Lisa
Answer -
Lisa,

Drain the antifreeze, change the thermostat and radiator cap.  That should correct the overheating problem.  On the transmission it is the syncromesh as he says.  You should have the syncro and gear replaced to correct the problem.  If you do the transmission I would change the clutch while the transmission is out so you can get another 100 K miles out of the truck.

Answer
Lisa,

A clutch alone will cost about $500 installed and since they have to remove the transmission to get at the clutch, pressure plate and throw out bearing this is a great deal.  Check the phone book and shop around.  The transmission gear will run something like $350 for parts plus the labor to take it apart and install the new gear, syncro and balking ring.  I would estimate the whole thing to be something like $1500 installed complete.  Also, be sure to ask for the old parts when they are done and ask what kind of warranty they offer.