ladams17

Yeah it's been a pain, but I'm finally making progress on the engine bay.

Will - I am currently ordering part and wanted to know the best way to find the exact inner and order wheel bearings you used from Rockauto. Any part numbers or ways to search on their website for the exact ones?

Will - I am definitely interested if you end up opening it back up for more orders.

Thanks man. I am going to pick some up for this weekend.

Just a small update: I ordered the Randy Ellis motor mounts, they should be here sometime next week. Last night I patched up the engine bay on the drivers side (pictures coming soon) and also made a large patch for where the hood mount used to be (completely rusted out) and welded that in as well. I also made a patch (1/8 thick) for above the rocker in front of the driver side door so I can weld a support bar up to the top of the inner fender. I finally have my welder with the car so I should continue to have updates!! Also if anyone has some good tips for welding this terrible original datsun sheetmetal feel free to chim in... PITA! I am using 035 wire (which may be too large but it's all I have). Patience is going to be key for this aspect of the project. Question: Anyone order fenders from BlackDragonAuto? Are they worth the money? I am in Michigan so every fender I look at are in terrible shape and mine are completely rotted out. Suggestions welcome, I know $200 is a lot per fender but I absolutely hate welding this old thin sheetmetal.

So what are the other options?

$2000 and up depends on if it has the bell housing I need or not.

If you don't mind me asking which struts were you running with this setup? I also have the 5.3L setup and I am going to run the 250/200 setup but need some recommendations for struts.

Thanks man! I always keep my eyes posted on the sites for t56 deals. I enjoy doing some fab work, so I will definitely look to use a kit like the one from speedway motors! Thanks for the tip! I will definitely take my time to do my research.

Thanks man!! Luck is definitely going to be needed!

Yeah fixing rust will really consume your time. I will only need the holes for the harness, which I going to run through the inner fender. Other than the harness, you have the fuel and brake lines. Besides that there shouldn't be much more.

Thanks! The old man and I run an organization that has heavy equipment and big trucks so we needed the space! Also space for all the projects!

Looks like I am going to have my hands full for quite a while! I wanted to start a build thread because I felt selfish for just lurking on HybridZ all the time. I have to say though, this website/forum has blessed me with so much knowledge, information and encouragement that there are plenty of other guys out there trying to figure things out already and I am only a few weeks into my build. And I wanted to give people a chance to chime in on my build! Thanks in advance! Just a quick background. My brother owns a 82zx and since he brought that thing home I've always wanted a Z. I've always been more attracted to the 70-78 body style though, so I began shopping locally. I am located in Michigan so it isn't exactly easy trying to find a clean body. I found a shell located about 30 minutes from me and couldn't help myself. I've had a few other projects that turned out well, but never had a street/track car that I could have a lot of fun in. Previous projects were 78 Ford Bronco, 69 Firebird, 97 Ford Ranger Bagged. The goal of the car is just like most guys on here, build a street car that can be taken to the track to have a little fun with. I can mostly see myself just driving the car on the street. I'd love to have the car make decent power (don't need a 10 second car), ride really well, and not cost a ridiculous amount to maintain. Now I am a car guy and understand it takes money to enjoy and maintain something but I don't want a 20K track car when I'm done. Plans 5.3L w/ upgrade heads, cam, intake, injectors, and etc... T56 - Just need it to hold up to about 450-500 ft/lbs Upgraded Coilovers, Camber Plates, Struts, Springs, Sway Bars R200 or R230? Not Sure yet, probably whatever is going to cost me less in the long end with CV joints, stub axles, etc.. Possibly a cage - not sure Current Situation - Front and Rear Suspension is completely torn apart. Ready to make decisions on suspension upgrades. -Rust in engine bay is removed, I am making patches for replacement -Engine bay is ready for welding of unused holes, and then fitment of 5.3L -Removed most of undercoating already, and plan to complete entire fabrication of drivetrain before applying LizardSkin product! Needs -T56 - Haven't been able to find one I like locally and haven't really put in the effort on ls1tech to nail one down -Advice on best bang for my buck with suspension parts - TTT or AZC or ? I appreciate any tips, tricks, advice along the way guys. I have read through most of the post on this site that are similar to my build or have information regarding what I am going to do and you guys rock! SUNNYZ has built an incredible Z along with a bunch of other guys that have gave me inspiration. I am only 23 and have had a few years of experience in paint and body, along with some fabrication, but I am a rookie in regards to race suspensions. I'll try and keep my build thread updated! We also just built a new shop so I can't wait to start working in there! Currently in a small space at my grandparents, but it has heat, air compressor, 220V, and lighting!

Thanks for the advice man! I will definitely save all this information for when I get to that point. It's closer than I think!

280zjake which headers did you end up going with ceramic coated or non? Also I would highly appreciate the link to the exact engine mounts you used from them. I am trying to put together a budget for my 280z that I have prepped and ready for my 5.3 I just purchased. I'd rather go with a motor mount that positions the motor in the best spot possible.