Hello all,
I am just getting going on my new project for which I have allotted 2-3 years to complete.
In January I picked up a '77 280Z for $600. The guy selling it me was only selling because he could not get it into gear while running. A few turns on the master cylinder adjustment nut and I had a fully running 280Z for $600.
I spent some money and time getting the L28 to run more correctly (needed new ignition parts to run better) and it now will take me anywhere reliably.
The body is very straight, though it has some rust in a few places, but nothing major. This is my second Z so I learned the hard way on rust issues with the first one.
Last week I stumbled across a 2000 Maxima being parted out that still had everything I needed left for my dream swap, a VQ30DE into an S30. I picked it up for $350 and it has the engine, wiring harness, computer, key, and ignition all still intact. I am only missing the upper intake manifold and MAF sensor. I was finding engines only in the $400-$500 range, so to me this was a steal.
My plan is to accumulate a 350Z/G35 transmission, upper oil pan, exhaust manifolds, starter, and driveshaft over some time.
Although I am not the greatest fabricator in the world, I have a good friend that is an excellent welder and currently restoring a '67 Mustang. He can help me fabricate mounts for the motor and transmission as well as help stiffen the chassis on the 280Z.
I plan to document everything as I tear down the Maxima, build the motor setup, restore the Z, and transplant the motor.
I have found little resource on this swap between here and the Google world (been researching for over a year), so if anyone has any input or advice on this as I go it will be very appreciated.
Thanks for reading,
Greg