datsunlover Posted November 9, 2003 Share Posted November 9, 2003 Wondering if anyone has any thoughs about swaping a 3.8 S/C motor into my 75 280Z. These engines came in the Late 80's early 90's Thunderbird super coupe, and was usually attached to a 5 speed. (I can pick one up localy for about $600 cause its pretty rough; but runs good) I don't know all the specs, but I am sure the Ford T-bird weighs WAY more than my 280 just because its a bigger car, and usually had power evrything, all options, a back seat, and so on. It would be a Hp/Tourqe boost over the stock Nissan L28, and easily bumped up with smaller S/C pullys, computer chips, ect. I have been a passenger in one of these cars, and trust me.. they go pretty good! Part of my reasoning here is that my insurance Co. frowns on a V8 in a car that is SUPOSED to have a 6 cyl, and they will rape me like you cant imagine... I know I know, "don't tell them" ..but if I get in an accident, or get pulled over there could be a problem. This way, I am thinking it will still be a 6 cylinder on the ownership, and easily hidden. (Larger, but single exhast, a bit quieter than a V8, no hood bulge or anything.. basicaly a sleeper) What do you guys think? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dan Juday Posted November 9, 2003 Share Posted November 9, 2003 There is a Ford tech on this board that has nothing but bad to say about that motor. Do a search and see what you come up with. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest TwoXtreme99 Posted December 10, 2003 Share Posted December 10, 2003 k, this is a good motor, but there is one big issue......the head gaskets. they like to blow. since the motor is used, and you'd be pulling it out of the supercoupe, definitely replace the head gaskets, or better yet take it to a good machine shop and have it rebuilt. most people that have had supercoupes, tore into them, therefore there is hardly a pampered 3.8 sc motor out there. i really should stress getting it rebuilt, but dont' even consider it reliable without replacing the head gaskets. i am probably gonna do the same swap. the sc is a good motor, but as mentioned, they have a troublesome past in that one area. can't wait to see a Z with one in it!!!! goodluck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cobraz240z Posted December 11, 2003 Share Posted December 11, 2003 i have a 1992 thunderbird like a year know i redline it abuse it and it runs perfect i think they are awsome motors especially with the pulley that is 80 dollors you get 40 hp and a good exhoust and headers you will be at 330 easy and pretty good gas milage stock they have 332 torque so you will need wide weels to not spin them but for the money i rather go with a 5.0 its on you though be diffrent it will be cool Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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