['83 280ZX Turbo Compression Numbers]

 

BTW, except for the compression test and oily plugs, are you experiencing any other issues with the engine? How much oil does it burn in 1000 miles? Just suggesting that you might not want to bother until you're ready to do a proper rebuild. In my case, less than 10k miles later that's what I was doing.

 

 

It doesn't burn oil. I have major idle issues and hesitation/lack of power randomly issues, I see these issues especially when cold. The high idle (1000rpm) is persistent though. What I hate the most is that it will randomly loose power...especially in lower rpms from 1st to 2nd etc. I think there may be some misfiring going on due to the oily plugs...(not getting good spark, etc). So that's why I want to replace the piston rings, etc.

 

My turbo is pretty strong but showing signs it needs to be replaced. It seems like it only maxes out at about 4.5 - 5psi or so. (based on my gauge, it doesn't go into the red anymore). So I will replace the turbo with the t3/t4 setup, but before I turn up the boost and start really having fun with the car I want to make sure the engine is good, rings are replaced and head gasket, etc.

 

See, it's all a chain effect!

['83 280ZX Turbo Compression Numbers]

When the wet compression jumps dramatically, its the rings. Sounds like an inexpensive in frame overhaul is in the works for you.

 

Jared, do u know any good shops in orlando? how much shld this run? too bad u cant do the work for me

['83 280ZX Turbo Compression Numbers]

Goals are 275 hp at crank. Reliable fun daily driver t3/t4 hybrid turbo, intercooler, 10 psi boost.

['83 280ZX Turbo Compression Numbers]

No, I've only done basic maintenance things on cars.

['83 280ZX Turbo Compression Numbers]

So the Piston Rings can be replaced without pulling the motor? What else? Head gasket? Valve stem seals? About how much do you think this will run me?

Do you recommend I take it to a Nissan dealership?

 

Thanks

['83 280ZX Turbo Compression Numbers]

Well I finally did a dry and wet compression test on this car. Had noticed some oil on my spark plugs and suspected the piston rings.Here are the numbers.

 

 

Cylinder 1: 120 psi / Wet 160 psi

Cylinder 2: 120 psi / Wet 170 psi

Cylinder 3: 130 psi / Wet 150 psi

Cylinder 4: 120 psi / Wet 145 psi

Cylinder 5: 130 psi / Wet 163 psi

Cylinder 6: 135 psi / Wet 173 psi

 

 

Not bad for a 26 yr old Turbo engine. The minimum should be 100 psi, Normal is 140 psi.

 

 

Looks like I have a Piston Ring problem though, right?

 

 

I'm going to just replace the Piston rings, Head Gasket, and Valve Guide Seals/Stems all at once.

 

 

Since I want to put a T3/T04E .50 Trim, .63 a/r turbo on there, Intercooler, 3inch exhaust and turn up the boost.

[Suggestions? 83 280ZX Turbo Running Rough When Cold]

Was it the Air Regulator? I have a similar issue.

[280zx missing at 1/3 throttle]

you know, now that you mention it, it does smell a lot better, but I can still smell a hint of richness, maybe because of the open down pipe? I don't know.

 

why is your downpipe open?

[1983 turbo woes]

 

-When i start my car and take off if i floor it within the first few minutes of starting, it spits and sputters and wont go anywhere and has no power at all.Any clues?

 

 

I have this same issue in my 83 ZXT w/160k (has not been rebuilt), and the bogging problem does seem to disappear when the engine reaches full operating temp. Did notice this problem after I ran Seafoam in the car (crankcase, gas tank, and intake), I thought my fuel filter was clogged from the Seafoam in the tank and replaced it but the problem remains and it only occurs while cold. Im thinking maybe a clogged Cat, because the spark plugs are oily (prob worn piston rings), and the car is misfiring sometimes, which could cause unburnt fuel to enter the cat and melt the components. I guess is: 1. Clogged cat (goes away when car warms up and cat heats up) 2. Engine Temp Sensor. 3. Clogged Fuel Injectors

[280zx side skirt options]

Car had Tokico springs which lowered it approx 1". Rims were 17" on low profiles.

 

Pic of MSA II front attached.

 

 

Nice wheels, what type are they?

[1979 280zx JUST FINISHED!!!!]

I've added the "before" picture. The car was low mileage, but suffered the usual rust spots for a Z. I did the body/paint myself. The motor is stock.....I'd like some ideas on improving the performance. Can a turbo be added to the "standard" block setup?

 

Did you have rust under the car in the frame rails/underbody? Did you have them replaced??

 

Sweet ride!! Love the wheels.