Tx1021

Hi, I have a 280z awaiting a Lt1 from a Camaro. I got the project about two years ago and did not have any time or space to work on it. I haven't even posted here for quite some time. But now I have the time and a free garage bay to get the swap done. I am going to be using the JTR swap. The only thing that has me really worried is the wiring for the LT1, but I think I will send my harness in and have it modded to be pretty much a standalone system. As of now I have the original engine out and I have starting prepping the engine bay for paint. I have also started disassembling the interior as I will be repainting it at some point during the build. Heres a pic of the car and engine. More to come as i progress, but probly not till after Christmas.

Nice video. Love the sound of that exhaust.

Wow that Lt-1 sure fits nice. Hopefully I can get mine to that stage pretty soon. Great work!

Right now I am dropping in a 95' Camaro Lt-1 with the 700r4 behind it into my 76' 280. I am going with a full manual shift kit. The question I had is what is the BEST shifter for this setup. I really like the Pro-ratchet shifter but open to any others. Just wanted some opinions since there is so much personal experience on this forum. Thanks in advance. ~Colin

Just wanted to say that dash is one of the nicest ones I have ever seen. Great job!!!

After seeing the picture i do not think that it would be that bad. Might even look good. I was picturing a graphic that took up the full side, like the ones you see on civics and stuff. Maybe you could get someone to photoshop it for ya. Colin

Im not really into graphics, it could look nice though. I think solid colors look the best on the older z's. But, everyone has their own opinions. You should post pics if you have them. Colin

About how much would it be to pay someone to reproduce that body kit? Anyone have custom body parts made before?

I have been searching through the threads and could not find one with a list of body kits. So far I have looked at the ones from Reaction research, MSA, and Arizona z car. So if you have a body kit or know of one post here with pics and info on it.

I was just searching through the older posts and came across this one. I love everything about that first drawing, except the hood, but other than that its great. I was just wondering if anyone had any updates on it. Seems there really arnt many newer looking kits out there for the classics z's.

Thanks for all of the replies. This has helped narrow my my choices down. I still cant decide between the MSA and the Kaminari 3 port style. Does the Kaminari utilize the front bumper or does it go without?

Had a few quick questions about the MSA Front Airdam Part Number 50-1409 which I am considering putting on my 76 280z. 1. I have seen several posts about people not too happy with the quality of the MSA kits and was wondering if it is a concern as this is the only peice i will be using? 2. Will a body shop have to install this piece or is it simply bolt on? 3. The information on the MSA site says it has "bumper detail" does that mean that it works without the stock front bumper, as mine has been removed? 4. Does anyone have a picture of this part installed on a car? Thanks for the help.

I would probably be up for the fiberglass hood, without the vents, but as for the others i do not need them. So you have to order at least 5 of each part to get the discount?

Thanks for all of the replies. Does any one know of a company manufactuirn cf dashes right now? Thanks

Is there anywhere out there that sells new replacement dashes for 280z's. If not do the dash caps look nice I am doing a full resto and want everything to be as good or better than new. If you have installed a dash cap please post pics. I have searched around and cannot seem to find a replacement dash. Thanks in advance for the help. Colin

Thank you for the help. I use the search function on this site religously when looking for info it is a great resource. I think i might use a 280z chassis instead because of the frame rigidity. It should hold up to the massive amounts of tourque coming from the 383 without modifying too much. I plan on highway driving occasionaly and seeing that the rpm will be close to 3500 around 70 I think i will go with an overdrive manual. Fell free to give any more advice as I am a novice when it comes to Z's, I do not think i am over looking any major problem areas but I might be. Thanks

About a year ago I built and installed a Chevy 383 into my jeep. I am looking at pulling it out and putting it into an early model Z preferably a 240. I have looked at the majority of the posts and understand the basics of this process. I am not too concerned with the install as I have installed several engines into vehicles they were not designed to be put into. Several questions are: 1) Will the R200 stand up to non absusive driving from a 450+ft/lb engine 2) How difficult is the R200 to install 3) A list or shops offering conversion kits, as I am not very good at fabricating, and opinions of each shop 4) Fitment of wider tires in the rear so I will be able to put power to the ground 5) I plan on using a Manual Shift TH-350, what kind of stall would be optimal for street/occasoinally drag driving 6) Some sites quote 40-50hrs of work for this swap this seems a little unreasonable what are some actual times that it takes to get a 350 block running in a 240z As of right now JTR seems like the best shop but i am sure there are many more out there. Thanks in advance for all or your help it is greatly appreciated.