floor pan difference....

[FEnatic]

Can someone tell me the difference between the 70-74 1/2 and the 74 1/2-78 floor pans? Will the early pans fit late models? Thanks

[jkube]

Hi,

 

I've installed both types. The major differences in the profile down the centers where the rail runs along.

 

Early model floor pans have a "Hump" running front to back and the floor rail flanges are both the same depth.

 

Later 280z model pans dont have the "hump" and the frame rail has differing depth on the flanges on each side.

 

If you have only the floor pans and not the rails, the floors could be interchanged. But it would mean you'd have to make some adjustments when fabricating floor rails.

[Z-TARD]

Some of the later 280Z's had a hump in the floorpan on the drivers side to make room for the catalytic converter. I've seen a few like this, with a big lump right under the drivers seat.

 

Mike

[FEnatic]

I have the early model pans, but a 75 280, The only difference is the frame rail depth? Should I just sell these and get some for a 280?

[jkube]

Yea Z-tard is correct about the lump for the cat. shouldnt be a problem though if its not rotted around that area. Just cut the pans to fit around it.

 

As for selling off the early model pans to fit the 280. If your OK with not having the absolute correct frame rails visually, AND can fit the frame rails to match the engine bay rails, you should be OK to go.

 

If you're at all unsure about doing the extra work to fit them, then yes sell the ones you have and buy the correct year pans and rails. At least this way you can 100% sure about the fit and finish.

 

And you wont be sick to your stomach every time you look under the car and see the wrong parts there knowing you could have made it better. (Dont ask me how I know this!!!)