Two40MuscleZ

Frank: On the West Coast of California back in the 60's we used to call that color "Chicken Fat Yellow". Some of the coolist tri-5's were very close to that color. Back in the day...the surf was up, the nights were long and the summer heat was rising. Drags were at it's pinicle, and yellow...was just cool. Remember, the duce coupe in "American Grafitti"? Same idea, yours is just an updated version. Choose your mirriors carefully to keep those smooth lines that you now have. Very nice ride, and very sleek. Comps, Van

Outstanding job. Some of the best welding I've seen. Very fortunate to have found someone with so much talent. Look forward to seeing future innovations. Comps, 2thumbs: VAN

Like Pete, I also am running a 327. Mine is set up slightly different from his. (Just a bit). However, I am using the Pete Jackson "Noisy" version. It whines a bit...sounds very similar to the whine produced by the blower type motors. Admittedly so, I prefer a bit more of the noise articulation produced by the roller motors. Not long after I purchased mine, my 18 yr old liked the sound and performance so much that he put a noisy one in his '55 chev 1/2T PU which he also built to show. In his words, "its tight, no slop, sounds good and does the job. The noise just adds to the mystique. When I pull in heads turn and that says it all." We both agree...when its in your blood, you just want to share the experience and excitement with everyone on the street! And the noise you produce is almost as mezmorizing as the smell of nitromethane and burning rubber! Comps, Van & Cameron

Hey Lone...what-da-ya-say we go halves on it? You can drive it on M-W-F, I'll do T-TH-S and Sundays we'll both clean her up! Afterwards we can have a cookout: You bring the beer, I'll bring the steaks and hell...the car can bring the girls! Sound like a plan??? lololol Comps, VAN

Dom: Having spent some time myself in Columbia, S.C., I understand your concern with the humidity and rust factor. Bare in mind that you certainly need to protect the exposed metal surfaces as much as possible. Applying just any spray can primer will create a temp barrier against the elements, however, it can lead to other time consuming results. Todays paints are matched to their primers. The bonds that they achieve have been calculated to offer maximum efficiency and durability. Notwithstand, application of inferior or non-compatible materials will often lead to restripping, sanding and the like. Depending on the amount of "dead time" the car will encounter before you can afford to paint it, and considering the high humidity rate of the area in which you live, are all medigating circumstances contributing to your delima. Application of an oil based medium directly to the exposed metal surface areas will deter such oxidation temporarily. This is a process that can be repeated to continue protection. Additionally, spreading a thin sheet of 1 mil plastic over the coated areas will assist in its protection. The main thing to remember here is to provide a through cleaning of all oil impregnated surfaces prior to the application of any paint and or finishing materials. This method will allow you to protect the surface(s) without having to restrip, sand, and spend unnecessary additional rework time. Hope this helps. Good luck with your project. Comps, Van

Terry: Its uaually the little things that we seem to overlook in our "rush" for perfection, or in our case to get it "fired up and running". Good looking out...Glad to hear your rebuild is making progress. You and Pete keep asking about pics. Soon! Comps, Van

Here is the information as it is written within the California Vehicle Code: CVC 28071, article 11.5; CALIFORNIA PASSENGER VEHICLE BUMPER REQUIREMENTS "Every passenger vehicle registered in this state shall be equipped with a front bumper and with a rear bumper. As used in this section, "bumper" means any device designed and intended by a manufacturer to prevent the front or rear of the body of the vehicle from coming into contact with any other motor vehicle. This section shall not apply to any passenger vehicle that is required to be equipped with an energy absorption system pursuant to either state or federal law, or to any passenger vehicle which was not equipped with a front or rear bumper, or both, at the time that it was first sold and registered under the law of this or any other state or foreign jurisdiction." That is what the law states. It's basically up to the citing Officer, whether they are going to follow the "letter of the law, or spirit of the law." The latter being the usual with a warning! This isn't much help, but, if your car is clean and appears to be customized it is usually overlooked. Hope this info is of some help! Comps, Van

Unfortunately, yes in CA they are required. However, in my case the inital violation would commence with something a bit more controversial, i.e. a mover vs. a lesser mechanical cite. Then and only then if the driver becomes agressive, or his demeanor is less then courteous does the "hunt" for obvious other violations occur. It usually doesn't take long for the subject to adjust his attitude. Most vehicles which fit into the class of altered, customs and the like, usually are well maintained mechanically. Certain facets of these "Car Art" creations become overlooked...for good reason. They are still liable for the mechanical cite, however, usually understood for their esthethic eye pleasing apperance and left unchallenged. Personally, it really doesn't provide the degree of protection associated with them. It becomes more of a problem then the solution. Newer vehicles now have them "moulded" into the body patterns, and does even less with respect to protection! However, as long as you have the Rookies who are out to make a name for themselves, or upper brass that has an ax to grind for some reason, that bumper factor will continue to exhist. Stay safe on the streets and watch your back! Comps, Van; aka Gld7PtStar

Tim's right! After finding the particular magazine you were interested in...Hot Rodder, Chevy Performance, Road & Track etc., what was the first thing that cought your eye on the cover...it sure as S--T wasnt the car...it was the girl! Advertisers discovered long ago that Sex sells, and sells big! Using the female gender has always been used to influence the male psyche. If you dont think so...then you need therapy my friend! LaterZ, Van

Its amazing to hear the diversity of opinions and contraversy contained within our group. Prior to purchasing my 240 back in the day, I had to wait for 5 months to take delivery. More than once, I was very tempted to scrap the idea and settle on purchasing a more conventional muscle type project car, i.e. SS-396, Roadrunner tri-five chevys etc. In those early days of the Z its future was unpredictable. It had no real track record to base itself on. However, the fact of overall concept, design and engineering all contributed to a sound and inexpensive investment. The word "Ricer" wasn't a term used very much then. Currently, with the increase of import popularity, face it...Hondas and their contempories are the new wave of the future. Letting go to old ways are sometimes hard...especially for the "Old Farts" such as myself. In my opinion the term "Ricer" is an individual who, through his/her own personal preference has decided to embark into the "flash in the pan, look quick but, nothing to back up it up" syndrome. Their the ones who cruise the Blvds. with stereo's a blasting, reving or should I say wining their sideways engines, and setting a less than desireable apperance for the general public. On the other hand, there is a select few of this group who really are creative artists in what they have managed to accomplish through their talents and ingenuity. AKA the new genreation "Hot Rodders". Unlike the "Posers" these individuals have actually taken their efforts to the next level. Improving, enhancing and establishing a legitimate claim to what they believe. Are they "Ricers"? Possibly, but definately NOT "Posers". I'm a died in the wool muscle car enthusist. Love the stuff. The sound of unbriddled power, the smell of burning rubber (coming from the back tires) and the sense of uphoria that sweeps over you when your in the throngs of powershifting during a race...thats what dreams are made of. Whether someone/thing is termed "hot rodder, led sledder, low rider, 4 byer, ricer or muscle car enthusist, we're all just a group of people putting together what pleases us and hopefully others. Thumbing your nose down or making derogatory statements doesn't speak very highly of yourself...or a club they may represent. Let sleeping dogs lye, do your own thing, and let life take its course! Comps, Van

I'd have to agree with Lone. Pull and redrop the distributor. It sounds like it is off just enough to cause the non-start. Good luck. Van

Make sure that it's an automotive paint store that you get your information from. Many of the "retail paint" stores are unfamilar with the "automotive" side of paints. Once in a while you can find someone who has some knowledge, however, unless they have first hand knowledge you could be opening a can of worms for yourself. You can also contact PPG, Ditzler Corp, or some of the automotive paint manufacture representatives. Usually, they are more than happy to offer solutions to your delemas. Especially, if you are a potential prospective purchaser. Depending on the damaged area (6"x6") that you mentioned, feathering the edges, and building up the primer is a viable alternative. It's a lot of work, but it can be done. Check with the paint rep. before you get in over your head! Good luck. Comps, Van

At last years MSA Natl's Mike Perrot brought his newly finished British racing green Z convertable. Sweet! He can be reached at Pierre'Z car center, 12579 Crenshaw Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250. 310.644.3645, FAX 310.664.3647, E-mail pierrezman@aol.com. His fathers shop did all the Z Restorations for Nissan a few years back. Very helpful...good luck! Comps: Van

Hey Lone: FYI: I ordered my Z in Sept of '71 while I was in the military. After waiting for 5 months to take delivery, it finally arrived at the NorCal dealership in Feb '72. It was NEVER FACTORY EQUIPPED with a charcoal canister! You may want to check that out, as it may not be required since some of the early Z did were not manufactured with them as original equipment. Might save some time, money and headaches. Enjoyed our conversation. Thanks for all the insight. Van

Just a side note: During this past year I purchased an L-88 hood scoop (the smaller version)and they were very helpful. However, when I placed it on the hood of the Z, it appeared smaller than I had imagined. I immediately called them explaining the situation. I wound up exchanging it for the larger version, (looks much better). Staff was very understanding and helpful. Added plus...no extra charge for the exchange or larger scoop. Highly recommend this company. Comps, Van

Can anyone offer a reputable dealer where I can pick up a decent '94-'97 T-56 tranny with bellhousing etc. to complete my 327 buildup. I am hoping to find one prior to this years MSA gathering, otherwise I'll only be there with a picture scrapbook! Although, I live in Southern California the dealer would not have to be restricted to this area, shipping is a consideration. I would appreciate any suggestions/referrals that the membership could offer. Thanks everyone for your help. Van

Grumpy: Question: To overcome that lack of pressure draw when using "shorty" blockhugger headers, couldn't you add a "stinger" to the end of the collector, thus giving you additional draw pressure? It wouldn't necessairly be of any great length, but would allow for a greater increase in draw and correct the problem?. Comps, Van

"Please extinguish all smoking materials, fasten your seat belts, and return you seats and trays to their full upright and locked position for take off!! Great Pic... Comps, Van

DavyZ: Do not use the "Goof-Off" liquid. That is ment to remove latex paint but, with respect to your plastic lens, it may cause it to fog; i.e. defuse the clearness into a cloudy apperance. You may want to try a mild polishing compound such as "Jewelers Rouge" and a soft clean cloth. Using any type of abrasives and/or sandpaper may remove the overspray, however, it will leave a potential shallow spot on the lens, which can appear as a wave in the reflection once it is buffed out. A mild cleaner wax such as "Magwyers" or "Blue Coral" takes a good deal of rubbing, but, that may be your saving grace. Try a test area first before application to your final product. Take your time and you'll be just fine! Comps, Van

Build-up still not complete...never ending love affair, (just ask Pete)! Looking to top off at an estimated 686 ponies, getting close; but still need the 671 blower to put it over the top. No low rumpty-rump here...more on the order of a poppity-pop! At this point gas milage...what gas milage! I need something big enough under the hood that will turn the 22.5 stickies on the rear. What started out as a day runner, somehow escalated into a "full-blown" Pro street vehicle. Built for Street'n Show, it definately will be a cause for conversation. Comps, Van

Les: Yes, the custom silverZ with the red interior and the blonde sitting inside is the same individual. (The blonde is Pierre's wife). He and mike both mentioned putting together some kits similar to the silver Z. You just might want to give him a call. Be aware, however, he is a bit of a purist...of sorts, re: engines! But give him a call or send him an email. Maticulious is a good name for him. He is very passionate about his work...and it certainly shows. If you have any other questions, just let me know. Comps, Van

If I am not mistaken the green Z convertable Mikelly is referring to belongs to Mike Perrot, son of Pierre Perrot i.e. Pierre Z Car of Southern California. He is the one who Nissan contracted to do the 240Z Car restorations. FYI his E-mail address is: www.PIERREZMAN@aol.com, His shop tele is: 310.644.3645 Hope this information is of some help. Comps and holiday wishes, Van

Lone, Pete and RPMS pretty much tells it like it is. Give me a call this evening and I will go over all the fine details with you on prep and repaints. Wish you (like Pete) lived closer...then I could have helped you out with shooting your car. Late erZ Van

Jens: Really appreciate the site referrel. Combination looks good, and it gives me the information I need to start. Thanks, again! comps, Van

Lone: Appreciate the information and its location. Will KUA as to its progress. Then after all is said and done, I'll help you do yours! Thanks, again. Van