Differences between 240 and 260 bumper.

[rickl750]

Hi Guys,

I've been looking for a 240Z front bumper for my 78 280Z without much success. These bumpers are either hard to find or very expensive, so I've looked at alternatives like the MSA fiberglass reproduction but I would prefer metal/steel. Anyway, I found that Blackdragonauto.com sells 260Z front bumper for $150.00. Has anybody ever use this bumber? what are the differences between 240 and 260 bumper?

http://www.blackdragonauto.com/icata...ll.asp?page=22

Thanks,

Rick

[RayG1988]

Depends. The early model 260z was very similar to the 240z, while the latemodel 260z was basically a 280z.

[rickl750]

The one Black dragon auto is selling appears to be the early 260Z model.

[RayG1988]

You should be fine then. Just so you know it's not just bolt on, but its not hard to do either.

[Zs-ondabrain]

And another related question is....

What date would be considered Late or early model? For example, I have a 2/74 which is considered an "Early" model. When does it become a Late model.

Calling Carl Beck? any insite?

Dave.

[conedodger]

To do this modification to a 280Z

Remove existing bumper

Remove screws at leading edge of impact struts

Using a sharp object, insert through hole and puncture membrane

Push back on impact strut to release gas and mineral oil

Test mount bumper pushing back until you get proper position

Mark impact strut with proper position, mark body on sides in rear for mount holes

Remove test fit bumper

Tack weld strut in proper position, drill holes in body for rear side mount bolts

Remount bumper at front

Remount bumper at rear

Enjoy beverage of your choice and post pictures here

[RayG1988]

And another related question is....

What date would be considered Late or early model? For example, I have a 2/74 which is considered an "Early" model. When does it become a Late model.

Calling Carl Beck? any insite?

Dave.

Don't remember the exact dates but the easiest way to know which type you have is that the early model looks a lot like the 240z and it's a lot lighter. Meanwhile the later model has the bigger 280z bumpers and can be confused for a 280z.

I believe you have an early model.

[srbigbutt]

From looking at the picture on BlackDragon's website it looks like the 240Z bumper hugs the fender a little more than the 260Z bumper.

[rickl750]

Thanks guys I think I'll go with this bumper.

[srbigbutt]

Thanks guys I think I'll go with this bumper.

Keep us posted. I would definately like to try this as well on my Z if it works out for you.

[Zs-ondabrain]

Don't remember the exact dates but the easiest way to know which type you have is that the early model looks a lot like the 240z and it's a lot lighter. Meanwhile the later model has the bigger 280z bumpers and can be confused for a 280z.

I believe you have an early model.

The reason I ask is A future customer has a 9/74 with aparently stock skinny 240Z bumpers. But they started making the 280Z only 1 month later. So could the "Late model 260Z" have only existed for one month. I'm confused cause I kinda called him on it and he said it looks like a 240 from front to back, even though it's a 9/74'.

So what month did they start putting on the 280Z bumpers onto the 260Z?

Confused yet intrigued all at once,

Dave.

[conedodger]

The reason I ask is A future customer has a 9/74 with aparently stock skinny 240Z bumpers. But they started making the 280Z only 1 month later. So could the "Late model 260Z" have only existed for one month. I'm confused cause I kinda called him on it and he said it looks like a 240 from front to back, even though it's a 9/74'.

So what month did they start putting on the 280Z bumpers onto the 260Z?

Confused yet intrigued all at once,

Dave.

IIRC it was late in 74... At this late date, isn't it possible that someone has backdated the late 260Z in question with early 260Z bumpers? The reason the 260Z is used is because its mounting interface is the same as the 280 (and late 260) impact strut.

My apologies for giving you the how-to. I didn't realize you were a shop owner or employee. You probably already knew how...