5 Speed Choices - Advice Needed

[Victor Laury]

I'm interested in upgrading to a 5 speed. Not that there is anything wrong with my 4 speed box. As a matter of fact, I think the 4 speed ratios fit the car rather well. But, on the Interstate, the thought of overdrive is alluring.

I have some choices already. A Roadster Vendor has a 75-79 (all the same?) box. I have an extra early roadster box. T5's seem to be in every junk yard I go to.

No matter which one I choose, I think it's prudent to have it rebuilt anyway. I have a reputable Datsun Transmission Specialist down here (Bill Meyers) that I'll take the tranny to before installation.

Here's what I think I know. Please tell me if I'm off base or "on the mark". If you agree or disagree with any of the points below, please respond. If there is more online info that I might have missed, Please Point me to it.

The roadster trans (A box 2 piece) requires a special bell housing, tail Shaft and drive shaft. Parts are scarce or just not available at all.

The plain Ole Z 5 speed (B Box, one piece) mounts up with no problems using the 4 speed driveshaft and mounts. You do have to modify the shifter or you hit the dash. parts are there but getting harder to find.

The ZX Turbo T5 requires some mods to the mounts and shifter. It's tough as nails but slower shifting and heavier. The ratios are not really ideal for 240's. Parts are plentiful as they were used in many cars.

[2ManyZs]

Actually there are two choices of Z 5 speeds. One is the earlier model 280 5 speed up to 78 and the 79 and later ZX 5 speed.

See the post in the tech articles about the differences in the gear ratios.

Personally I prefer the original style 5 speeds over the T-5. Much easier shifting and they will hold to almost any engine except for maybe a V-8.

My choice would be a 79 or later ZX 5speed with either a 4.11 or maybe a 4.37 rear gear, with the overdrive they have you should be able to go to a slightly lower rear gear than the 280Z 5 speed and still retain drivability on the highwy for cruising.

I would try to stay away from the Roadster box, too costly when you consider all the parts that must be changed.

[Ed]

I used an 81' five speed. Used the same shifter out of my 73' and had no problems at all. Oh yea, my car is a 73'