Well I think im going to do it.

[Guest Script]

Within two weeks I will officially be in the market for a 240Z. With plans of doing a LT1 and T56 swap, I do have a few questions to get me started.

 

First of all I need to get my hands on a JTR book, if any one has one they don’t use I would be happy to buy it from you.

 

The JTR V8 Mounting kit advertised on JTR’s website. Does it work with the LT1? Does there transmission cross member work with the T56 transmission??

 

People talk about different placing of the engine, like further up or further back. JTR is set further back to the best of my knowledge. Is this a good thing?

 

Do the JTR headers work with the LT1? Are they very good performance wise? I understand that hooker sells some headers for this swap, would you consider them better than the JTR headers.

 

I am concerned about the headers because I am going to be dropping in a 383 stroker lt1 engine with modified head and cam. I don’t want the headers to hinder the engines power output. Do you think this is an issue or am I just being stupid? I’m hoping for about 450hp from the engine.

 

I know the LS1 would be a better engine to use but I just can’t afford to build one right now. And since im definitely not lucky enough to find an $1800 LS1 based donor car im going to stick with an LT1.

 

Is there anything else I need to know at this point, things I need to look into, avoid, or be prepared for?

 

I know there is an issue with steering, any other problems like that?

[Bartman]

Congratulations, on making your decision! I will most likely be doing the exact same drivetrain combination in my 73 240Z in the next few weeks.

 

I suggest using Summit for you JTR books. You want both the Datsun V-8 Conversion Manual as well as the Chevrolet TPI & TBI Engine Swapping One.

 

I think most people will agree that the setback position is the preferred placement. This keeps the weight off the front wheels, a lower center of gravity, better cooling, and better hood clearance.

 

Don’t forget about the speedometer. You will either need to get an electronic unit, or have the T56 tailshaft modified for your mechanical unit.

 

Most of your questions will be answered in the JTR manuals or by searching the forums. There are plenty of discussions in regards to this swap.

 

Good Luck!

[280Zone]

Also drop me an email, I have 2 Hybrid books,(one is loaned out right now). I have a standard 350 hybrid and am helping a friend build a Hybrid with the 350 and a Ford 9" rear end. We are more than happy to share experiences.

[waynekarnes]

i have a 72 240z, with the scarab kit. engine sits forward and high.

 

gives great ground clearance, and the distributor ( chevy 350 ) clears the hood latching mechanism. lots of room for header to frame clearance, esay to change the spark plugs, most things are accessable.

 

issues ... engine sits forward and high ... hard to find proper manifold air cleaner to clear the hood. engine sits forward ... i want to convert to an electric ( taurus fan ) ... there is no room for that ...

 

this conversion was done back in 77, still running the original 4 core radiator that scarab recommended, i think it's from a camaro ... i want the electric fan, as the stock water pump, and clutch fan set up, place that clutch set up about an inch off the radiator,and there is no way to shield the fan. the fan sticks up about an inch above the radiator.

 

Mike at JTR, suggests with a new radiator ( JTR makes an excellent radiator ) which should give me more clearance .. enable me to run the taurus fan set up.

 

 

if i was doing a swap today ...

 

LS1 with TPI ... 6 speed trans ... 2 core JTR radiator, taurus electric fan, using the JTR kit ...

 

why not change mine ??? ... it's a scarab ... granted a build it at home scarab kit, but ... it's still a scarab, the grand daddy of V8 z swaps ... and i don't have any money left ... all my good deals with my connections seem to fizzle out ... ends up costing more than if i'd bought retail to begin with ... LOL OUCH !!!