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got my car for christmas...


scuba steve

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how much should the oil pressure be on an 82 280zx? my dad got me one for christmas. we completeley gutted out the interior and replaced it. its in great condition, but it seems as tho the oil pressure is a little low on it. oh and the mount for the rear differential is missing, so every time I shift or give it some gas it thumps the bottom of the car. I'm thinking about removing the catylac converter and running a straight pipe, would this be a good move? my dads friend at a mechanic shop said it would add power and allow better air flow. let me know wat you guys think

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Toss the Converter, Get a front diff mount from MSA or ANY of the other suppliers mentioned on this site.

As for the oil pressure, As long as the oil is inbetween the "HI and LO" marks on the dipstick, you should be fine. Just rememeber that the car is 25 years old and the Oil Pressure gauge could be worn out (it happens) and may need to be replaced. Look for another or aftermarket oil pressure gauge, and try that before making a big deal out of the possible Bad oil pressure.

Not a bad idea to do a pressure test on each cylinder, just for the hell of it.

Dave.

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how much should the oil pressure be on an 82 280zx?

Oil pressure in any engine is "relative" to that needed to flood the main bearing surfaces with lubricating oil, and also maintain the necessary clearances between the bearing surfaces and the connecting rods or crankshaft. Oil pressure in an L28 should be 12 to 15 psi per 1000 RPM up to 3000 RPM as I recall. The oil pump has a pressure relief valve that limits oil pressure from the pump to around 45 to 55 psi.

So your oil pressure would be "low" if it were in the 25 to 35 psi range at 3000 RPM and it would be "high" if it was in the 55 to 65 psi range at 3000 RPM. It is not uncommon to see oil pressure readings drop to 5psi at idle. Changing to fresh oil and new filter will usually increase the oil pressure readings on your gauge by 10 psi.... old diluted and/or cruddy oil will thin out and lower your oil pressure...

As previously mentioned - the sending units and gauges in our Z's are not the most accurate available. So if you have fresh oil and filter, with the proper oil level... and your gauge reads low.. I would first suspect and replace the sending unit , as well as checking the wiring connections.

FWIW,

Carl B.

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I'm thinking about removing the catylac converter and running a straight pipe, would this be a good move?

That depends upon where you live, and what the Emission Testing your 82 might be subjected to. If you are sure that your Z won't have to pass an Emissions Inspection/Test... you might get away without it.... But make sure you know what the law requires in your State before you do anything.

FWIW,

Carl B.

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