DBLopez Posted March 3, 2017 Share Posted March 3, 2017 Hey guys, I am currently looking to replace my transmission in about a month or so, but was hoping for somewhat of an upgrade to my current 1981 280zx NA tranny. I have seen some do a 240sx swap and others do z32 swaps. What are the pros and cons of each one? Are there other transmissions that are worth looking at or would it be better to just replace my current one with a newer one. Thank you guys! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NewZed Posted March 3, 2017 Share Posted March 3, 2017 These two guys give a pretty good summary of the pros and cons of the 240SX/71C swap http://www.motortopia.com/cars/1973-datsun-240z-11118/car-pictures/240sx-transmission-swap-14041/DSC04293JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg-266482 http://zhome.com/ZCMnL/tech/240SX5spd/transmission.htm The Z32 swap requires an adapter. What do you mean by "upgrade"? How could a different transmission be better? You need to define that to make a good decision. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FricFrac Posted March 3, 2017 Share Posted March 3, 2017 If you are running an NA or a mild turbo the 240SX swap is more than ample. No need to swap to a Z32 tranny unless you are putting down some serious HP Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DBLopez Posted March 3, 2017 Author Share Posted March 3, 2017 If you are running an NA or a mild turbo the 240SX swap is more than ample. No need to swap to a Z32 tranny unless you are putting down some serious HP I am running NA so I'd assume then that the 240sx would be the ideal? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DBLopez Posted March 3, 2017 Author Share Posted March 3, 2017 These two guys give a pretty good summary of the pros and cons of the 240SX/71C swap http://www.motortopia.com/cars/1973-datsun-240z-11118/car-pictures/240sx-transmission-swap-14041/DSC04293JPG_Thumbnail1.jpg-266482 http://zhome.com/ZCMnL/tech/240SX5spd/transmission.htm The Z32 swap requires an adapter. What do you mean by "upgrade"? How could a different transmission be better? You need to define that to make a good decision. Awesome thank you for the links! I'll read up. I suppose that is a broad term.. I will take that into consideration and redefine my goal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NewZed Posted March 3, 2017 Share Posted March 3, 2017 Don't overlook gear ratios. You might need a new diff also if your ratios change much. The 80-83 280ZX transmissions are fine for normal sporty driving. And if you're looking because you have some grinding or noise, there are cheaper fixes than total replacement. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DBLopez Posted March 3, 2017 Author Share Posted March 3, 2017 Don't overlook gear ratios. You might need a new diff also if your ratios change much. The 80-83 280ZX transmissions are fine for normal sporty driving. And if you're looking because you have some grinding or noise, there are cheaper fixes than total replacement. As far as what might you suggest? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BluDestiny Posted March 3, 2017 Share Posted March 3, 2017 Don't overlook gear ratios. You might need a new diff also if your ratios change much. The 80-83 280ZX transmissions are fine for normal sporty driving. And if you're looking because you have some grinding or noise, there are cheaper fixes than total replacement. It's funny you say that because I'm swapping my 71b for a 71c this number since my 2nd/3rd gear synchros are going out. I got a pair of 71c trannies for $140 and a free 4spd bellhousing to mod. I was quoted $80 for the machine work. I'm doing it for future replace ability. Teh cost of 71b's seem to be getting to that tipping point of "I can find a 71c for cheaper and get a short shifter". Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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