Is She Ready?

[AndysPlit]

My Daily Driver (86 ZX) is out of commission for the moment due to transmission issues. I have a roadtrip planned for the end of this month that will tour the Southwest region of the US. Originally I was going to take the ZX for a couple reasons. Now I am contemplating taking the 78 Z for the trip.

Roundtrip the drive will be about 2,000 miles. We plan to drive to Death Valley, the ET Highway, Vegas, Grand Canyon, and then Phoenix.

The 78 has 299,900 miles on an unrebulit engine. However, the top end (head gasket) was done about 50K ago. The manual tranny was rebuilt around the same time. She runs fine. I only take her out once or twice a week. All I think I need are 4 new tires, and a brake job to prepare her for this adventure.

If I cannot get the ZX repaired ontime I am considering taking my beloved Z for this journey. She got me from Los Angeles to New Orleans and back 5 years ago. Although my 5th gear gave out leaving Texas, I still got her home in 4th with no problem. That issue was resolved shortly after the that trip.

So, as you can probably tell I am slightly apprehensive in taking her out this far. She has served me well for over 10 years. The last thing I want is to lose her. I have faith, but I am also trying to be realistic.

Is this old girl up to the task? I told myself I wouldn't do something like this until the engine was rebuilt. I may have my garage give her a once over, but still I am concerned. I know these are tough little cars, but what do you guys think?

[zbane]

Andy, only you know your car and how she is feeling.

If this were my trip, this is what I would do:

Change the usual fluids (including the coolant), check brakes, tranny oil, diff. oil, fuses and lights, vacuum lines, engine bay electrical connections, AFM (for leaks), and air filter.

I might also go ahead and change the fuel filter and plugs (unless done recently).

Regarding the mileage on the engine itself: if you've been taking care of her (and I'm sure you have been), then I wouldn't worry about it.

[JimmyZ]

If memory serves me that area of the country has poor cell phone coverage. I'd be sure to check everything before getting stranded.

I'd check ALL of the fluids and grease the U-joints (where applicable/ I don't know if 280 joints are greasable)Make sure all of your hoses are in good shape. (Fuel and water) When was the water pump or thermostat last changed? I'd at least change the T-stat. These are the things which will probably bite you IMHO.

I'd also drive it as much as possible leading up to the trip so that any problems will present themselves in town.

I'd take my 240 X-country in a heartbeat with a few tweaks.

Good luck! That's a beautiful part of the country.

Jim

[AndysPlit]

As far as I can tell she is running strong despite the high mileage. Yeah, I've been keeping up with her standard maintenace, however, I will change the theromstat. It's been years since it's been changed!

The coolant was changed fairly recently so I think that is covered. I'll have to see when the fuel filter was done. Could be when I had the valves adjusted, but that was a while ago too.

Thanks for the small tips here and there. I'll do everything I can do ensure we all make it home in one piece. "Treat her like a lady and she'll always get you home."

I can't wait for the journey. I am looking forward to the driving aspect more than anything else. I'm excited about the ET Highway in Nevada.

But, you guys are right; Only I know. Well, I have faith that she'll make it again. "Your 280 will go anywhere", were the words of encouragement from Sunrise Z in Glendale. That's my shop of choice. I'll be leaving March 22nd. I'll be sure to post some pics upon my arrival back home.

Boldly Go,

Andy

ps...Please excuse the avatar.

[Z Speed]

Hey Andy I just seen your thread. Wishing Godspeed on you trip. I am green with envy. That sounds like a great way to tour Southwest. What better way to travel than in a Z, well except for maybe in my M.....

Have fun and be careful. Takes some great shots with the Z in them of course....

[AndysPlit]

Hey Andy I just seen your thread. Wishing Godspeed on you trip. I am green with envy. That sounds like a great way to tour Southwest. What better way to travel than in a Z, well except for maybe in my M.....

Have fun and be careful. Takes some great shots with the Z in them of course....

Thank you. I will definately have some shots of the Z.

Z-ya.

[Bruce Palmer]

Belts and hoses, belts and hoses, belts and hoses!!! If they are 5 years old, change 'em........ Been there, didn't done that, bit me.....:dead:

[AndysPlit]

Belts and hoses, belts and hoses, belts and hoses!!! If they are 5 years old, change 'em........ Been there, didn't done that, bit me.....:dead:

Will do. Come to think of it my upper radiator hose could use a change. Had that on for years too. OK, I'm making a list now.

Thanks so far for the advice from everyone.

[AndysPlit]

I changed a few things this weekend to get the Z ready for the trip. I changed the fuel filter, air filter, both radiator hoses, and the thrermostat. Before I leave this Saturday I will be doing the spark plugs. Oh, and I flushed out the radiator.

I've done a few things on the car before like the starter, oil, and alternator. Believe it or not this was my first time doing those other items I mentioned. It felt good to know that I did it myslef...and that I saved some cash!

Again, thanks for all the support and advice. I've already done my research about plug gapping and all that. This board has been great help, but it wouldn't be so great if not for the helpful users.

Cheers,

Andy

[zbane]

Don't forget about changing your Blinker Fluid!

http://kalecoauto.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=6

And if you are expecting rain...

http://kalecoauto.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=5&products_id=23

[AndysPlit]

Don't forget about changing your Blinker Fluid!

http://kalecoauto.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=6

WTF......I had no idea!