Hybrid virgin needs advise

[Guest milmascaras]

After over a year of visiting site and reading the posts, I amazed on the knowledge and respect the members have for each other and for the new kids on the block as they come along and join, such as myself.

First, background. I purchased a 77 & 78 Datsun 280ZX about 18 months ago. This site showed me where I wanted to go and how to go about doing it( but need some help on some very simple questions).

I have removed the engine from the the 77 Datsun and purchased a SB 350 V8 complete with 350 turbo trans from a chevy Camaro.

I have ordered the JTR manual. I will be ordering the motor mounts and cross member next week.

1. Where should I order them from? I do not want the scarab mounts.

2. What else do i need to pick up to complete the swap?

 

I know these questions are basic, but it will be a great assistance, so i may post my pictures here one day and join the great pleasure that i see all of you share.

[Mikelly]

I'd go ahead and buy the JTR mounts since you specify NO Scarab position. I'd also be looking at headers, exhaust, and getting the drive shaft made once you have the exact length you are shooting for. The exhaust is a BIG ticket item if you go duals. This will have to be a custom job by a competent exhaust shop...

 

Do a search in each of the respective forums for Ignition, fuel, and cooling problems and solutions!

Mike Kelly

ZF Racing LLC

[Guest milmascaras]

took your advise Mike and ordered the kit.

thanks

[Mikelly]

Good man... Now break out the yellow pages and start talking tyo muffler shops and hot rodders to find out who in your area does Quality exhaust fabrication. They will likely want to keep the car for the day, since it will be a time consuming job if they haven't seent he underside of a Zcar before!

 

Mike Kelly

[Andrew Bayley]

I can't agree more with what Mike said.

A good exhaust shop is golden! I know it sounds like a long time down the road, but it will most likely take at least that much time to find a decent shop. Heck, I've been looking for about 5 years now for someone to do my Z

 

As for the "kit" you ordered, was this just the motor mounts, or did it have other things as well? You need to figure out how you are going to close the hood. Doesn't sound like a big deal now, but when ready to drive it for the first time and nothing to hold the hood closed... it can be slightly annoying. Also, radiator mounts are another item that is often overlooked until the last moment. Mike already hit on the other two big ticket items (exhaust and driveshaft), I would also suggest that you look into a good shifter for whatever transmission you decide to use. Either Automatic or Manual, it will be money well spent.

 

-Andy

[Guest milmascaras]

It was a typo. It is a 77 280Z.

I specified when I ordered the complete kit,cross member, including the hood latch, radiator brackets, and speedo cable.

 

I have also found the muffler shop, a friend owes me a favor and his brother owns the place. I want it to a be sleeper( as quiet as possible) so what exhaust system would you recommend, dual exhaust, what size pipes, etc...the whole nine yards. The brother suggested something but would like for the advise of experience with Zv8's, that is why I ask here.

 

After that the next step is the cage and brakes.

I will be honest I crave the speed but respect it too much to go wild. It is an automatic.I enjoy the stories here though.

I want to have it ready for the Gathering in San Antonio in June. With your help I will.

[Modern Motorsports Ltd]

I"m assuming your '280ZX' was a typo and you meant 280Z? They're fundamentally different for motor mount setup/geometry related to your crossmember and JTR setback plates are of no use in a 280ZX. Just checking...if a 280ZX it differs... (their have been some late 1978 280ZX's FWIW)