Problems with 79 ZXT axles in a 71 Z?

[ZSaint]

I am installing CV axles out of a 79 ZXT into my '71 240Z. I have an R200. I did the dust cover mod, cleaned and painted the axles. Now they are too long to fit into the car. I talked with another guy putting the same axles into his Z and he is having the same difficulty. He says the way to go is to machine the outer hub, cut out 1 1/2", press them flange back on and weld 'em up. I have never heard of people doing this mod. I know people install these CV axles but this is a new one for me. Anyone done this?

[beandip]

You might go to the hybred Z web sight . They are involved with big block V-8s and such in the Z cars. Some one there may be of help with this. Rairly have I heard of the half shafts failing even with high HP applications. Gary

[240ZX]

ZSaint, I've been doing a little homework on the subject myself, as I have been thinking about a CV upgrade. Oh, and Gary is correct about visiting the HYBRIDZ site. They have archieves full of great technical info, but if you've never visited the site...use the search function first to seek out what you want because as with most car sites people tend to just ask questions without doing a little leg work up front. However, if I remember correctly the LH side drive axle does require less length than the RH side drive axle. I believe by disassembling the outer CV and reversing the assembly you will shorten the axle by the needed 3/8"....at least that's the info I got from the MM site that makes the adaptors. (MM = name of adaptor manf. that I can't recall their exact name, sorry). Check them out and good luck!

[ZSaint]

Interesting stuff. I will check out the hybridZ site. I have the pages from the net that talk about changing the dust covers (which I have done). No one talks about the length of the axles problem. I will search the site and see what they say. I guess I can see if I can change the CV assy. to gain a little, too. I'll let you guys know what I find.

[240ZX]

Check out MODERN MOTORSPORTS website! These guys are quite familiiar with the CV conversions.

[ZSaint]

I found their web site. Got some pics of their shortened outer flanges. I have a buddy with a lathe. He can cut the flange, machine a line-up groove in both pieces, press them together and then have it welded. Presto! The axles will bolt right in.

[ezzzzzzz]

I believe you also need to unbolt the top of the strut and pull the whole assembly outward/downward to get the CV axles in. At least, that's what I've read on a Hybridz thread. I'll find out soon enough as I'm installing the CV-type side flanges from an '85 720 4x4 R180A (front diff) into my '71 R180 LSD. I believe the CV bolt patten is the same on the 280ZX as the 720 4x4. If so, I'll buy a set of companion stub axle flanges from MM to match. If not, I'll use a second set of CV side flanges to fab custom companion stub axle flanges. Finally, I'll use two sets of 720 inner CV's to build a custom set of axles. Sounds easy enough! :stupid:

[ezzzzzzz]

Actually, the thread decribing the CV conversion and how to install the axles was http://alteredz.com240ZCVHalfshaftConversion.htm

[ZSaint]

Your thread is not 'hot' anymore. I tried to get it but it is a "no go". I guess there is more to this conversion than people know. I think someone needs to do a tech article on the complete procedure. I have the one that I got for the dust shields. No one mentioned that the stub axle had to be shortened!

[ezzzzzzz]

Sorry, go straight to www.alteredz.com and look for the write up. Ignore the language pack option if it pops up.

[bpilati]

One guy said reversed the assembly and another is cutting the axle up with a lathe. Now which is it? :knockedou

[auxilary]

Rairly have I heard of the half shafts failing even with high HP applications. Gary

Half shaft ujoint is the weakest link in the driveline.