[Unknown User]

I am planning on purchasing a clean 280Z and then installing a V8 before it becomes a convertible. The amount of power that I want (360-375 hp) can be achieved easily with either a Ford or Chevy small block. I have the JTR conversion manual for the Chevy and I have scads of Chevy conversion info and pictures from the internet.

What I would like to hear are there any disadvantages to using a Ford since they are more narrow and leave more room for the exhaust manifolds? Also,I want to install power steering. Anyone out there know if Ford or Chevy PS fits with its engine into the Z car?

Thanks for your help.

John Tonkinson
Future Z Pilot

 

[Unknown User]

> What I would like to hear are there any
> disadvantages to using a Ford since they are
> more narrow and leave more room for the
> exhaust manifolds?

The big disadvantage tends to be the placement of the oil pump in the oil pan. Some people modify the crossmember, one gentleman on the internet found an oil pan that did work for him ( Thunderbird? ). Ford prices do tend to be a little more than chevy but still a lot cheaper than Datsun L28.
Despite this it would seem with the lower weight that more people would be doing this conversion.
Two places for more information:

http://www.kdlnet.com/znet/v8.htm

>Also,I want to install
> power steering. Anyone out there know if
> Ford or Chevy PS fits with its engine into
> the Z car?

Sorry no idea, but this does seem to bad idea.
With the better engine placement of a V8 in the early Z's the power steering is unneeded and the extra weight is something you could do with out.

good luck
Chuck
76 V8 Z

 

[spot]

Depending on your location, I have a 302 and auto tranny w/ 85k miles just waiting for something like this. I'm in Texas. If your interested, email me direct.

 

[Lestat]

Ford found on the road dead. hehe I dont like much of ford why I had a escort my first car and it was slow. Had to be push up a hill. and butt ugly like the mustangs 5.0

 

[spot]

I never said I liked them either. Why do you think I'm selling the 302. It would be great if I was a Ford man, but NOT.