[TmfZ]

I have to replace the throttle position switch in my 1978 280Z. I have never done this before but the replacement looks pretty straight forward. Is there anything special I should know about replacing this part or anything that needs to be done after the replacement??

 

[greydog]

Throttle switch replacement is simple. The only critical part is adjustment once its installed. The adjustment is best accomplished with a voltmeter or test light and is clearly outlined in any service manual.
Dan

 

[john cross]

This switch has twpo cointacts that are made as the butterfly opens. The adjustment is just the placement of the switch so that this contact takes place at the right time. This switch controls the mixture between; the idle, normal, and full power states. So you want contact immediately after you depress the accelerator for normal operation, and just as you go to full power. Make sense?

 

[JR]

As noted by greydog and j. cross, replacement (and even adjustment) is relatively simple. I'm curious to know how you know the one on your car needs replacement. It's a simple on-the-car test to see if it works and this is not a part that goes out often.

 

[john cross]

I was not going to say anything, but I completely agree with JR on this. I just checked mine last week and it is fine after 20 years. As long as no water gets in, nothing is goign to happen to it. I just recently finished rewiring my ignition harness (replacing all fo the connectors to it). The result was incredible, about a 30% increaser in power and everything runs a lot better. I would suggest that the problem could be with the connector to it, not the switch itself.

 

[JR]

Question for JC

John,
I'm pretty good about keeping my connectors clean, shiney and tight, but would feel better about replacing them. Did you buy all new connectors for injectors, sensors, etc.? Did you replace any runs or wire, or just the connector ends? Run into any particular problems?
Thanks, JR

 

[john cross]

Re: Question for JC

I bought 10 connectors from MSA plus the 3-pronged one from Nissan for the TPS. 6 for the injectors, 4 for sensors/devices, and the 3-pronged one for the TPS. This job was a fair bit of work. They all fit, some with difficulty. You have to solder them into the harness. I am not sure why, you jest need to make sure there is a good connection. Lots of shrinkwrap tubing. Doing it on the car is very awkward.

 

[JR]

Thanks JC!

I'm going to do this. My connectors all look pretty old and tired.