'73 240Z $500 - advice !!!

[Pete84]

Thanks for the advice, I am going to phone the local yard and see if they have any I6's that might be useful, and am going to take a look at them before I heading over to the vehicle of interest. I really don't want to be rebuilding every component, if there is a workable transmission and engine I might buy it. Finding out just how much needs to go into the car has been my purpose, and if A) there is hardly any rust and what is there is easily dealt with and I can what I need for less than my first born then I'll probably bite.

Thanks, this won't be an immaculate vehicle for some time, I might even be using the springs that are with it for a while just to get farther along.

How many years / models of engines will drop in? Minor mount changes are fine, but would the engine / transmision etc from the 260z / 280z / 280zx work?

EDIT

Montoya - IF and I really mean it, the car needs body work due to rust, etc, it isn't going to happen. From what I remember, the body was straight and the paint was not sun damaged, just faded.

Major thanks for all the information!

[beandip]

Is this a car that had a automatic or manual tranny ? The wireing is different for a automatic. All the engines form '70 to '83 will fit a 5 speed will require some trans tunnel mods. But not much . Radiaters go about 100.00 . depending on what trans used drive shafts will vary in length. This car came with a R-180 differential one from a 280z will fit but a couple of other items will also be required . Electrical is another matter , hopefully the wiring is in tact. You will need a alternater a set of SU carbs and intake . To have a engine rebuilt will be in the neighborhood of 2K You should be able to find a decent engine for about $500. to 600. Personally I would look for a 280ZX motor. It's the incidentials that will put you in the poor house. Rebult SU with no core to turn in will be around $800. or so. So if you can find a decent set for around a 100. it would be worth picking them up . Look for a center console also and shift linkage . Vacume brake boosters are a few hundred you might look for one. Gary

[=Enigma=]

Any of the L6 series motors will fit. No mount changes necessary. You can get core for between 150-300 im most places. Maybe even one that would bre ready to go with some TLC. ur-gelis has a freshly rebuilt L24 on eBay righ now with a starting bid of 1500. Not sure what the reserve is.

[Zs-ondabrain]

No matter what you do, Buy the car for the $400 you mentioned earlier!!

Get it home and do the rest of the "DEEP" inspection. Then start looking again for another Z. You might actually find one with a great Motor, Trans, And Seats. if the body on the second Z is crappy and you can get the car for cheap, do it!!

Don't act too interested in the motor and trans for any other reason than wanting to know if the run or operate well. If you get too excited around the 2nd seller, He may charge more for the fact that "he has what you want".

Parts cars are a gold mine, trust me and every one else here. You never know when the "large crown lock washer and large washer on the rear control arms of your parts car may save you bucks or your life."

Excellent work on finding what may be the most life changing item you've ever put in your garage. And "Welcome".

Dave.

[Pete84]

Found some possible options on the car listings on craigslist.

Blocks - http://www.craigslist.org/eby/car/127020020.html

280Z motor rebuilt EDIT - has a transmission as well!! - http://www.craigslist.org/eby/car/126177908.html

Any very good deals?.

Thanks again for the great welcome and help!

[1 Bravo 6]

G'Day there Pete84,

Welcome to the club !!!!

There's only one suggestion I feel needs to be added to the excellent advice you have already received. When you go to check out the car, take a good MAGNET with you. Running it over the body will identify any bogged up areas.

Rick.

:devious: :devious:

[ncz]

Pete, the craigs list deals seem to be good starts for you. If in fact they do run, you can get into this car, not perfect, but running for under $1500. As stated before, the more you want to do, the more the price will change. Good luck and post some pic's

[MC75Z]

I live in San Diego, Calif.

I myself own 3 Z's-

1973 240 Z Series 4 Coupe- just purchased her for $500.00.

1974 260 Z Coupe

1975 280 Z Coupe

If you do purchase this car be careful and make sure you check out everything. The car is old and myself I have found things that were worn out just from time. Every Z I have owned or known of has had wiring problems & the front brakes tend to make the cars do a nose dive.

Just a couple of points to be aware of.

I really enjoy everyone of mine and they can be expensive but well worth the time and money.

I personally do all of the mechanics myself so I do know some about these cars but don't admit to it. !

Like I said "Good Luck" & have fun if you do decide to get her!

Michael Cornish

El Cajon, Calif.

'73 240 Series 4 Z Coupe

'74 260 Z Coupe

'75 280 Z Coupe

[Pete84]

Thanks! What year do you like best ?

I am going to be leaving to take a look at the car again, would I be able to tell if it is a manual or automatic from the underside of the vehicle?

[Zs-ondabrain]

Thanks! What year do you like best ?

I am going to be leaving to take a look at the car again, would I be able to tell if it is a manual or automatic from the underside of the vehicle?

Look at the inside for 3 pedals (manual) or 2 pedals (automatic) Check the cente console for sings of a boot (manual) or shifter plate (automatic)

Good luck,

Dave.

[nwcubsman]

...snip...a 5 speed will require some trans tunnel mods. But not much .

Gary does know his stuff and I hate to contradict but my understanding is that the tranny tunnel will only need modifying on the series one cars ('70 and at least some '71s) The earlier cars 4 spd shifter sat further back and the new tunnel opening has to be elongated in the front. "72 and '73 will accept the 5 spd normally. Someone, correct me if I am wrong, cause I have a 5 spd from an '82 for my '73.

Gary, you can get me back in person!

[Pete84]

As I was driving up to take a closer look at the condition of that car, ie underbody rust, overall condition, everything that I have been informed to look for, there was a whole haggle of people. Big ford truck with a dual axle enclosed trailor, early '90s mustang tricked out to the max. Somebody got to it before I could

Just means I'll be looking for a bit longer! Thanks again for all the info. A '70-'73 with a L28ET with a 5 speed T-5 transmission from a '82 or '83 280ZX is my goal now, just have to watch all the listings I can find.

Great site by the way!!