Difference in dimensions of a 280z and a 280ZX

[Guest Locutus]

Does anyone have available to them the dimensions of a 280 z and a 280 zx so that I can determine what changes I need to make to the JTR setup so that I can use thier book to do my V8 swap in my 79 ZX. I have been told that the major difference is that the z's firewall is 3 inches farther from the crossmemeber and that JTR's supposed offset is 3 inches, So if i shorten the bracket by 3 inches in the appropriate places it should work then. I would sure rather do it this way if this will work, rather than pay 695 for a kit from Johns Cars. my pocket book hurts already.

 

Locutus

 

 

P.S. if anyone has done the V8 conversion on a 79 -81 ZX let me know what kit you used and if you used JTR's book what changes you made to thier designs to make it work

[Guest Anonymous]

Hi,

 

I used the John's kit on my '83. After seeing it, it is super simple to build mounts and such.

You are correct about the difference in dimensions. All you have to do is locate the engine motor mount bolt patterns directly over the frame "horns", then make a simple flat plate mounts. Ross Corrigan used this method. Maybe he'll post details.

The John's mounts have an extension that fits between the crossmember and the "frame" rail, which, the claim is, adds strength. MAybe so, I can't prove otherwise. Except for the mounts, the rest of the kit isn't worth it. If i did it over I'd use an aluminum motor plate at the front, which would stiffen the chassis considerably.

I'm still running the R180 diff and have had no problems except for the rubber mount. But then again the tires don't stick which is the key. WHen you start making things hook up is when parts will fly. So until you get a stong diff under there, be careful about making too much traction.

Good luck.

Richard