what would you do?

[SBC_400]

ok, this summer I am planning on building a new V8 Z. I have an engine and a running 71 240 for all the parts, but it has front subframe issues. I am planning on completeting the swap and having a driveable car by the end of summer (not finnished, but close). I am pretty much limited to the summer to complete a majority of the work, because most of it will have to be done outside (not enough inside space for a donor and builder)

 

option #1

I may have a chance to get 73 240 bare chassis. It is a factory fresh chassis bult for racing. Full cage, all front and rear strut bracing the rear fenders are cut with what is left of the fiberglass flairs instaled (one side is a little broken up from moving it around) etc. It hase never had any thing bolted to it. it was bought and never built. the top body surfaces have some surface rust because it was stripped a few years ago, and then left. but the interior, under carage and engine bay are totaly rust free and in the original paint.

 

what are the issues I might have with parts fitting from the 71 parts car, running all new wireing etc. when trying to build a new car from the ground up?

 

option #2

buying a hopefully solid rolling chassis preferable with some work sarted on it, and putting in the V8 and converting the wireing, and strengthening the chassis, and everything else associated with performing the v8 conversion.

 

which is going to be easier faster... which way would you go given somewhat of a time constraint.

 

thanks

scott

[datsunlover]

I would go for the 73 that's built/set up for racing. It'll be tough enough to stand up to the pounding of a V8. You shouldn't have frame twisting/flex issues, and you can build it the way you want from the ground up. Plus, you've got a 71 there with all tyhe stock pieces you'd need to put a car together..

As for going and buying a 'hopefully' solid car to swap a V8 in... your probly looking at more money/time in the long run. Figure you'll have to remove an engine/trans before you can put in a V8... then fix any other problems with the car (rust, brakes, electrical, ect) and most likely weld in a frame.