Want to do a V8 swap in a 1983 280zx-need help

[Guest juliangall]

Guys

 

I bought a 1983 280Zx turbo that has been made into a convertible. I want to do a V8 swap, and I am seeking advise as to what kind of kit may be out there for the Zx. I know there are swap kits for the Z's, but will they fit the Zx. I would appreciate any help

 

thanks

 

julian

[Guest greimann]

There are several kits out there but consist of little more than motor mounts, trans mount and hardware. MSA and John's Cars are two I know of. There is still tons of work that is not covered by kits that you will need to do such as fuel system, electrical system, pneumatic system and hydraulic system.

 

By the way, how are your other convertible conversions coming? Any pictures?

 

http://www.hybridz.org/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=001699

 

http://www.hybridz.org/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=002161

[danc]

Julian:

Suggest you use the search option on this forum and type in 280zx SBC conversion. There is lots of good information available and help available on specific questions you might have. I used the MSA mounts in my 83 SBC conversion, and am happy with the result. Lots of options out there for mounts, but as Greimann pointed out that is a very small part of the conversion. Good luck.

Dan

[danj]

Danc

 

How did you solve the problem of clearing the steering column for the headers? How did you route the exhaust? Any wiring tips? I have an 83ZX sbc (383, 700R4)coming back from fabrication next month after 14 months. It still won't be running so I'll be needing some trial-by-fire assistance. What are the specs on yours?

 

DanH

[danc]

DanH

I'm using Heddman Tight Tubes and the passenger side fits without any modification. The drivers side had to be modified a lot! The two front tubes were cut about half way down the tube before the collector, and the rear tubes on the drivers side had to be removed at the flange, and re-fabricated so the steerting rod runs between the 2nd and 3rd tube (would that be cylinders 3&5?). The tubes are now extended by several inches and the collector is below the steering rod. My exhaust is (2) 2 1/2 exhaust pipes running thru 2 catalytic convertors into a flowmaster "Y" with dual 2 1/2s in and a single 3" out running over the left shaft to a Delta-Flow Flomaster in the factory location with (2) 2 1/2 tips. Looks factory and you really have to look to see a little bit of exhaust pipe on either side where it comes off the collector. It's a very simple and clean looking installtion.

I have a Fastburn 385 crate with a 700R4, and used MSA mounts. The engine sits back about as far as it reasonably can, but I did have to "massage the oil pan to clear the R&P housing, and have the hood modified (cowl induction scoop that is an exageration of the factory hood countour) with a medium high rise GM intake and a 770 CFM Holley Street Avenger. My recommendation on the wiring is to figure out what you will need (I used the JTR manual as my source) and mark it as you are removing the wiring harness. (I ended up sealing my "needed" wiring in baggies, so I could hose down and detail the engine bay). I'm certainly no expert, but I'd be happy to answer any questions I can that would help you out. Sounds like you are on your way, and have ample time to get your car ready before the drivertrain is finished. I've finally gotten the bugs out of mine with a winter project of installing a cam-kit I got from GM that takes mine from 385H.P./385 Ft/ Lbs Torque to 430/430. You will also need to plan on spending some bucks on new springs/struts, to use that all that new horsepower.

Good Luck..

Dan

[danj]

Danc

 

Thanks for the input. I'm not for sure what all will have been done to my 83ZX until it arrives by trailor next month (long story), but I do know that I will be needing some experienced help from you and others like J. Welch, Ross C, and Greimann who have converted the ZX. Do you have any pics of your conversion you could email me. I'm trying to build a file of reference material to help me get started with the completion work once I get the car back. It is getting a brake and suspension upgrade now. The drive-line is in place. I'm initially going to use the stock R200 3.54 rear.

 

Dan H

[Guest greimann]

I'd like to help, but I am using cast manifolds and have the steering box.

[danj]

To DanC, Greimann, Ross C, John Welch and any other successful ZX converters.

 

My ZX just arrived from the fabricator in Phoenix after 14 months (I had it trailored back) and it looks like I have my work cut out for me to get the car roadworthy. It's a long story but if anyone is planning on having work done on their ZX in that area do yourself a favor and check with me 1st. There are some great z-guys in the Phoenix area that post to this site, but unfortunately there is at least one imposter (Not a HybridZ member of course)...nuff said.

 

Anyway, the car was returned to me with the engine, tranny and shifter installed, and not much else. The Hedmann headers were left inside the car along with most of the other parts that were never installed.

 

Would like to get some pics that show the routing of how the driver side header was routed around the steering column. This looks like one of the 1st problems I will have to solve. Any input on this will be much appreciated. Mine is an 83 280ZXT with a 383 sbc.

 

Dan H