1979 280z questions
1979 280z questions
So I just bought a 1979 280z and I have a few questions. First, I like the look of the older dash and was wondering if you can swap it out without a lot of fitment issues. Also if I can't swap out the dash, how hard is it to get the speedometer and gauges for a 79 280z. Lastly I was wondering if there is anything I should know about the car including common problems, recalls, etc... All info helps
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sx moneypit
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1986 Toyota MR2 - Location: Memphis,Tn.
Re: 1979 280z questions
If your car is a 79 model then it is an S130 chassis (280zx).It is a completely different car from the S30 chassis (280z),so it will not work.
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evildky
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87 Nissan 300ZX N/A-T
06 Nissan 350Z GT
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Re: 1979 280z questions
mr moneypit is correct, your S130 (79-83 model 280zx) is a completely different animal from the S30 280z, you can swap the drivetrain and wheels but thats about it.
The 280zx is a pretty simple and dependable car. Mechanically there isn't much to look out for but lots of items will wear out after 30 odd years of use, disuse and abuse. Rust is the number one killer, spend the money to buy the best chassis you can find/afford. The mechanical bits are pretty simple and sturdy. If it's got an automatic, swap in the manual. The engine uses a chain drive and is generally good for 300k miles or better. any 75-83 bottom end is a direct replacement although there are 2 different pistons only the 81-83 n/a got the higher compression flat top pistons. If your speedo isn't working I'd first look at the cable, then the drive gear before I tried swapping out the gauges. AFIK they are long since out of production so ebay or salvage yards would be the only source if you did in fact need a new cluster.
The 280zx is a pretty simple and dependable car. Mechanically there isn't much to look out for but lots of items will wear out after 30 odd years of use, disuse and abuse. Rust is the number one killer, spend the money to buy the best chassis you can find/afford. The mechanical bits are pretty simple and sturdy. If it's got an automatic, swap in the manual. The engine uses a chain drive and is generally good for 300k miles or better. any 75-83 bottom end is a direct replacement although there are 2 different pistons only the 81-83 n/a got the higher compression flat top pistons. If your speedo isn't working I'd first look at the cable, then the drive gear before I tried swapping out the gauges. AFIK they are long since out of production so ebay or salvage yards would be the only source if you did in fact need a new cluster.