getoffmyinternet

Basically, I have been looking around this site all day since I got my 240z with an l28 and a 5 speed from a 280 last week. I was planning on driving it for a while before on embarking on such a feat, but it seems that the engine's best day was the one I went and bought the car, so I've decided to jump right into a swap. Today I picked up an rb26 with an rb25 trans with "uncut" harness basically fresh off the boat. I didn't see any forums that went through the whole process of swapping the engine, and as a beginner myself, I think it would make for a useful read for any other's out there that are thinking of doing the same thing. Hopefully it will prove to be encouraging and helpful. I'm not at all an expert on the matter, but my old man has been an expert mechanic his whole life, and there's plenty of literature on the internet in bits and pieces, so with my brains, his brawn, and a little help from this site (especially that really nice wiring writeup), I'm about to attempt to make it happen. I'll try to take as many good pictures as I can as well as post prices, which may also be of use to someone thinking that once they have a long block and a shell they're good to go. Goal: It may be a few weeks before I get my crap all together and you actually see real progress, as all projects go, but I don't think I'm in over my head yet (I guess we'll find out!). The car cost me $2600. Please don't pm me saying I spent too much and crap, I really don't think that will help. The engine and trans cost me $3000. If you can't tell from that photoshop job, it did come with a clutch, starter, alternator, a/c compressor, etc. and supposedly everyhing else I need engine-wise. The basic grocery list so far (and help me on this part all you want): 3 core aluminum radiator (at least, with 2 pullers?) custom intercooler (possibly water-to-air?) custom drive shaft (I'm assuming) hydraulic clutch pump (might be interesting) tons of hoses and piping (obviously) As for the oil pan, I haven't really looked into it much, but I know a pretty darn good welder and my theory is that I can remove that transfer case (and sell it on ebay) and seal the holes shut. Otherwise, I will obviously have to buy an rb20 pan and make adjustments for the rear sump configuration. Of course I might also need to buy an engine stand if I can't borrow one (yes, I know, I don't own my own stand, deal with it). I'll add to the grocery list as I go if I have forgotten anything (although I undoubtedly will have to buy more things as I progress anyway). Total Time: 1 hrs Total Expense: $3000 So, how am I doing so far?

I love all Z's, except the Z31. No that's a lie, there are others I don't like either. Call me close minded or whatever, but I'm really picky.

Yeah, not me, because after getting my z exactly the way I wanted it I had spare cash to go out and buy another car to use as my daily driver...

Is it absolutely necessary to have an intercooler that large? Or what about a water to air cooler? I saw one on ebay, but I think it was too small. They are more expensive though I'm sure.

LOLz @ your son!

I'd prefer to stick to the original car's own breed, but this is still pretty entertaining.

♥♥♥♥ that's some damn good welding! Unless that was done by a machine, you just blew my mind.

I would think it to be both. Very very, both.

It's obviously cherry, but, no offense to anyone because I love them too, it' still a Datsun Z. If someone handed me a check for a free year's salary, I can't say I wouldn't spend it on a car, but I can say it wouldn't be on that car, or any Z for that matter.

Buy an aftermarket window that doesn't have it. Theoretically, you could scrape off the wire, but it would be a pain and pretty much impossible without scratching the glass some.

I had to ask him the obvious question: "Are you out of your mind?"

It's not much of a z anymore... I say ugh, but then I don't like the standard 260 either.

They were the same displacement? I thought the higher compression was bored over .040 and the other was bored 3mm and stroked 4mm or something like that.

Can I quote you for "There's no replacement for displacement?" That doesn't end in "except for compression."