300zx Engine Swap - Suggest a Mechanic

[Bafflynn]

Hello there,

I have a 1989 300zx Twin Turbo, Right Hand Japanese Import. I need to swap the engine, I think I know a good place to buy one, but I need a mechanic that is savvy enough to do it but is not gonna rip me off.

If you could suggest your mechanic, or even engine sources it would be very helpful. If you do the work yourself put a price on the forum here. Also will any year engine work in my 1989, from 1989 - 1996?

The old engine has lost compression in one cylinder, so my plan is to swap it and work on the other engine while its out to better learn how to work on it.

**I live in Belleville, Ontario but will travel across province, Toronto is probably the best price.

[evildky]

IN the US they were sold as 90-96 models, and the 94-up used different injectors and the 95 deleted the exhaust cam variable timing and was OBD2, so you'd want an 90-93. I personally would suggest you rebuild your present engine unless there is a hole int he side of it. If you buy a motor on a pallet it is miles unknown period.

[NolimitZ32]

^ thats not quite right. 96 was the year they deleted VTC and went OBDII. 94 and 95 are generally the most sought after because they have all phase 2 stuff (injectors, CAS, PTU) which are more reliable. If you are going to swap, an EFI harness is only another $400 or so and so worth it. But ultimately I agree 100% with Dave, rebuild your engine, add all the phase 2 stuff to it if you feel the need.

[evildky]

I'm getting rusty, I meant to type 96 but I guess I been thinking 350Z too much these days, VG only had variable intake until they dropped it in 96.

[Bafflynn]

Well I am gonna have to take the engine out either way, I figure why not swap it and drive it this summer and have the other for a spare.

But thanks for the info, I will look into this stuff.

[hannman]

I'm pretty sure the last time I asked a mechanic what the standard hours are for a R & R on a Z32 it was something absolutely ridiculous. Most mechanics will look in their little book or on their computers for a time estimate if it's a job they haven't done before.

Moral of the story - take it to someone that knows Z's

I am not affiliated with or promoting AMS in any way, but I do know that the guys there can pull a motor pretty quick as they do lots of them. AMS is near the Toronto Airport. Alternatively Whitehead has good reviews. They mostly work on Z's (Datsuns and nissans). I'm sure they'd do a fine job. I'm guessing that you'd be looking at $2,500+ in labour.

Make sure you do the odds and ends that are a PITA to repair with the engine in (knock Sensor, O2s, timing belt, clutch, etc). I have a set of Z1 built heads, Eagle rods and a huge pile of other parts I might be willing to part with if you're interested. Stillen SMIC, Stillen fascia, power trix stuff…

If nothing else, give me a heads up next time you're out my way. I'm in Toronto ([email protected])

[NolimitZ32]

I wouldn't trust AMS Canada to work on my car simply because of the questionable business practices they are involved in. I can't speak to their expertise but I get a strong feeling of John Henessey every time the conversation turns to AMS Canada.