4spd vs 5spd

[mike260z]

hi, im fixing a 260z and i was wondering wich transmision is better, i have the 4spd

[Zs-ondabrain]

79' ZX 5-speed has been nothing but Awesome in my 240Z. Great low end and 5th gear gets me Great MPG on the freeway. I basically do 2950 RPM's at 80MPH, which leaves a lot of pedal around 100MPH

I'm sure a few other will give the specifics on what is needed for the conversion. (cross-member, driveline, etc.)

Dave

[mike260z]

thanks dave, what do i need for this conversion?

[Zs-ondabrain]

I think you need the driveline from the ZX and turn your stock crossmember back to front, (spin 180 degrees)

I think, don't take my word for it, I was hoping others would chime in.

Dave

[Weasel73240Z]

When I installed my 5-speed, it was a straight bolt-up. Used my original 240 driveshaft, all mounts, etc. and it worked fine (except for the fact that the 5-speed tranny needed a rebuild ). Wish I did that before I installed (then removed) it. I did use the shifter from the 5-speed instead of my original 4-speed shifter.

I also think there are subtle difference in the TO bearings, but I'm not sure on that.

[xxxpatsabxxx]

hmm, so with the 5 speed bolt onto an 1974 260 automatic?

[zguitar71]

Yes the 5 speed will mate to the motor from a 260 auto but you will need to add the entire clutch system to the car, use a flywheel from a manual and the starter might need to be changed too (not sure on the last one). The drive line might be the wrong length and the trans tunnel might have to be modified too (for the shifter to fit). I am not sure of all the mods I listed but they are just some things that come to mind when I picture the change over in my head. It is not nearly as straight forward as a 4-5 speed change. There are articles people have written about the swap on Hybridz.org and possible here too. It can be done though.

[mike260z]

then the 5spd is just plug&play ?

[sblake01]

then the 5spd is just plug&play ?

Pretty much when you're going from a 4 speed manual to a 5 speed manual.