Carb/manifold swap ?

[AxtellZ]

Hi all, transferring this from the "introduce yourself" thread, to get Alex an answer:

Hi: my name is Alex and I have been a z-holic for one week now. Bought a nice clean and straight 240Z from a friend for $800. No major rust, the engine runs well (needs the carbs tuned though), and the interior is clean and uncut.

No interest in restoring this car to pristine beauty but looking to build it up for back country rally racing. I look forward to pestering many of ya'll for help.

BTW would installing Weber Carbs and a N36 intake improve my performance greatly over the stock carbs?

[AxtellZ]

Duh..., forgot to ask Alex- what year did you buy? 70 to 72 SU carbs as a rule are far better, IMO.

As far as manifold, for a stock motor the difference is marginal at best. I have heard of 5 to 10 hp gains, but i could only see that on a well tuned race engine. Give us a few more specifics and you'll get more answers for sure. HTH, good to have you here! Jeremiah

[2ManyZs]

The swap will not get you much improvement unless you change the cam and update to a better flowing exhaust.

At the very least you would need to change the cam, install a header and larger exhaust and then you would probably need to modify the ignition with a hotter coil or go to an electronic ignition.

You will gain just as much by making these changes with the stock SU's without the hassles of trying to synchronize and jet three carbs. IMO if you want the performance without the hassles, stick with the SU's.

[SirJester]

Thanks for the info ya'll!! I'll save my money and put it into my suspension.

[2ManyZs]

While you are working on the suspension don't overlook the brakes, no sense in going fast if you can't stop!:tapemouth

[SirJester]

Very true. Stop then Turn then Go. This car is already a blast to drive. Can't wait until it runs like its supposed to.

[jcdozier]

SirJester:

I note you are interested in "back country rally racing". You may want to upgrade the front brakes with a set of Toyota 4WD calipers. It's an easy upgrade, doesn't cost much, and may help keep you out of trouble.

IMHO, replacing all of the old rubber suspension components with polyeurethane is money well spent. Don't forget the steering coupler.

Have fun with your new toy.