Edz280zx

Love my 81' base model. Mine had a/c, but no cruise. I also had an 80 base model. I did notice that both had R-180 diff's.

I'm using a mostly equus gauges, except for the speedo which is a vdo unit.

Been on here awhile searching around and couldn't really find an answer, so I'll ask. I've got the v8 installed in my 80 280zx base model (no power windows, ect..) and am finally getting to the wiring. I'm installing aftermarket gauges, but if I do, how do I bypass the stock ones so that the car will start and run. I remember previously with the stock motor that the car wouldn't start without the gauge cluster plugged in. I was also needing to know if the stock lighting system would still operate without the gauge cluster, will the turnsignals and what-not still function? I'm planning on making a new engine harness with an aftermarket start button while still using the stock ignition for power, accessory, ect... Any help would be appreciated. btw, it's a carbed 350 with a 700r4 w/stall and the speedo is an electric

Been awhile...but here's how she sits now... More to come as time allows..lol

So far so good....

Cool...someone finally did it and posted the pics to prove it!! Great job!

Some of you may know the car..some not. I think it was pretty much known for the triples on it...I may be mistaken tho..lol. Well..I sold the engine that was in the car so that I could start on the V8 swap, so....the parts hoarding has begun... Chrome headers...hey, they're new and they were cheap Pro Comp 190 Aluminum heads...very nice Billet distributor.. Air-gap style intake I've already got the 350(will get rebuilt), rebuilt 700r4 tranny, 600 Holley, and a couple other components. I'll be getting a Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 274. According to Comp's little desktop dyno(which I think is a little optimistic) it'll be in the 460hp range. Coupled with a car that weighs 2800 lbs, it should be pretty quick...in a straight line anyway. As soon as the Truck is done I'll be starting on this one...so it's just sitting there waiting for the new engine....

Nope, it's a 5-speed base model...no power anything or rear wiper. The 2+2 I had was an auto.

I'm a car fan period, but in particular little imports especially early 80's and older. Of all cars tho, the s30-s130's hold the top place in my vehicular obsession..altho I wouldn't mind having a nice 510....here recently, old Volvo's have intrigued me a little..lol

lol...yeah, I remember it back then

for the record, I've had two 81's that both had R180's. One was a 2+2 and the other is my current base coupe.

http://www.zcarparts.com

Do you have manual windows? If you don't, those door panels won't work.

MSA sell a "version" of the whale tale. As far as I know the 240 looking spoiler is just that..just a little work to get it to fit as good as in that pic.

Congrats on the purchase!! Will look good!

I bid on that too! just out of curiousity..what was your max bid?

I've done the bumper swap on my 81'. Pretty straight forward, there is drilling involved if you want the rear side pieces to mount up correctly, and the front involves carefully removing tabs off the fenders (welded or glued..can't remember) and bolting them to yours. I didn't drill the new holes in my quarters so my rear side pieces just kind of sit there...you can't tell the difference tho. The hood is a bolt on affair.

Looks like someone was trying to make a chevy monza...egads!

Yeah, I just sold a completely rust free 2+2 awhile back for 400. Basically had to give it away cuz nobody wanted the thing. I've found several on craigslist that were in pretty good shape.

True, especially since the fsm and fiche are wrong or inaccurate about some things.