New Project: LSx Powered Datsun Z:
Page 1: New Project: LSZ
Page 2: Engine & Transmission
Page 3: Interior
Page 4: Exterior & Body
Page 5: BBZ - Big Block 454 Powered Z Car (sold)
On 6/27/2009 I picked up a non-running 1975 Datsun 280z. Its bone stock except for a set of aluminum vintage Enkei 14" wheels (they look just like old school 2-piece Centerlines). It also has the factory optional R200 rear end and manual tranny.
The car now runs on a rebuilt 6.0 LSx (2005 LQ4) and 4L60e (from a 2004 GTO) transplanted into the Z. The EFI harness and PCM have been modified for stand-alone operation.
This car is nicknamed LSZ .
While the motor was apart I ditched the stock cam in favor of a Lunati Voodoo cam with brand new valve springs. I also sent the PCM out to get tuned. Ultimately the car will have a 100-150 HP wet shot of nitrous for the strip. If it runs in the mid 11's when its all said and done I will be happy.
LSZ itself has received a few personal touches as well. I ditched the huge and heavy 5 mph bumpers (155 lbs saved). Next the remaining carpet and insulation will get removed, floors cleaned and covered with POR paint, and recovered stock seats. I have also purchased a set of silver Sportmax 002's in 16x8" with a set of 245/50/16 tires.
Just like BBZ , LSZ 's body has been shaved of all chrome side trim, marker lights, emblems, antenna hole, etc. Although I might add a GM emblem 'LSx' to the fenders or hood after paint in the distant future. Also is the return of BBZ 's 4" cowl hood. BBZ 's owner didn't care for it, so we made an arrangement and I bought it back. The cowl hood will allow me to keep the truck intake (for the time being) and still close the hood.
Unlike BBZ , I would like to keep the creature comforts with the interior with LSZ . BBZ was a race type interior and had no carpet, racing shifter w/o cover, etc. As of right now the only aftermarket mods on LSZ will be Auto Meter Sport-Comp gauges replacing the factory pieces throughout, an aftermarket shifter, and CD/MP3/HD radio player/stereo.
Then of course as time passes and funds allow, LSZ will receive many of the same upgrades that BBZ received like Q45 R200 vLSD with custom Moser Axles and CV's, coilover suspension, bigger/better brakes, and paint and maybe A/C.
A lot of people ask, "why not a 240z or 260z?". There are several reasons I choose a 280z over the earlier 240z/260z's. Mainly because the 280z's had a stiffer chassis compared to earlier 240z/260z models but shared the exact body same specs. This is also the first year that the R200 rear end was offered in the two-seater model. They are much stronger than the R180 rear end they replaced. Lastly, 1975 is the last year of SMOG exception in California, so I have no worries on SMOG testing any longer.
Questions/comments?
Thanks for reading guys!!
