Driving my Z 900miles....

[maabus03]

Over memorial weekend I'll be drivin my Z around 900 miles from NW MT to the SE tip of Wyoming to where I'm going to college... I'm worried my Z might break down somewhere on the way. It runs very good now, but I have never driven it over a 100 mile trip. I recently got a full coolant flush and will do a oil change before I go. Also a basic tune up of course. On a trip like this, whats the most common thing that goes out? Just about anything engine mechanical or electrical I can fix myself. But what about other areas that might go out? U-joints and wheel bearings all look good. I "have" to be back on tuesday and worried about not makin it if something happens. I can't get anyone to follow b/c its such a long drive (13 and 1/2hrs). Towing it or using a trailer isn't a option, my truck could barely pull it being only a v6 ranger. So any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[gogriz91]

Depends on which way you're going, I had problems with my 260 getting over Monida pass and driving through Yellowstone due to vapor lock caused by the elevation and the heat of the summer. I don't think it would be a problem to take 90 to 25. Passes aren't too high and lots of traffic in case you do break down and need a lift. I usually carry a fuel filter, distributor cap and rotor with me but that's because I've had those things go out on me before.

Solve the problem by going to school in Missoula! Cuts off about 12 hours of driving.

[Carl Beck]

If it will run a hundred miles with no problems, it will most likely run a thousand with no problems.

Nonetheless, I'd take something to cut the heater hoses with, so you can loop them back and by-pass the heater if need be. I'd also take a fuel pump as a spare.

Check and or change all the rubber fuel lines... if you haven't already done that.

Old hoses and/or the fuel pump going out is about the only thing that's ever put the Z to the roadside

If you have Mag's... make sure you have standard lug nuts to mount the spare if needed, and check to see that the spare has air.

Drive safe,

Carl

Carl Beck

Clearwater, FL USA

http://ZHome.com

[Ed]

Also check your coolant hoses. If it's been a while since they have been replaced then that would be a good idea. Inspect your water pump and check for leaks out of the weeping hole. Inspect or replace belts.

What ever work you do before you leave double check your work to make sure you didn't forget to tighten or secure something.

Take some duct tape with you and a gallon of water (just in case).

Also take some basic tools with you.

Good luck and "Enjoy the ride"

[DougN]

Also, signing up for AAA or AAA Plus is not a bad idea either :-)

[Ron Carter]

In addition to the recomendations above,

It's not a bad idea to have a qualified Datsun specialist inspect your car prior to your departure. Tell him that you have a long drive coming up and have them check for the obvious stuff...

It's a little extra security and could save you a lot of grief.

[moonpup]

If they aren't brand spankin new, you might want to stop by a parts store and get your alternator and battery checked out.

Good luck.

[Darrel]

I drove my '73 to long beach and back for the '04 z convention. On my first engine rebuild ever. That's including the track day and track events with our local z club.

[jmark]

In addition to the recomendations above,

It's not a bad idea to have a qualified Datsun specialist inspect your car prior to your departure. Tell him that you have a long drive coming up and have them check for the obvious stuff...

It's a little extra security and could save you a lot of grief.

I agree with Ron. I did that before I went to Z Dayz last year.

[Ed]

One more thing, check your oil EVERYTIME you stop for gas.

[240ZX]

One additional aternative, if all this sounds like too much to deal with.................get a rental car!!!!!!:

Sorry, but I could not resist the tempation.

Tom

[maabus03]

wow thanks for all the suggestions. I'm actually going to college at wyotech, missoula doesn't offer that heh. I don't think there is any datsun specialists in my area (that i know of). Have new radiator hoses, water pump and belt. No rubber lines, all that braided metal lines( forgot name). I think I will get the alternator checked out, its rather old. Rotor and plugs all new also, shouldn't need those. I will need to change out the filter in the electric fuel pump. At least I do have AAA if something goes bad. Thanks guys