I just started noticing this condition in my 79 ZX. It only happens when you try to start the car after is has already run and been sitting for about fifteen minutes or so. Sputtering, missing, backfiring. Seems like a "hot soak" issue. I found this link on Zcar.com. Note two other long time 280 Z owners have had the issue recently, for the first time. I just celebrated 20 years with this car, and it's never happened before. Wonder if it's related to ethanol in gas these days? There is a great discussion of it at this link:

http://www.zcar.com/forums/883144/vapor-lock-heat-soak-voodoo-whatever-you-wanna-call-it

Note the discussion includes references to the check valve on the fuel pump, and fuel pressure issues, but I still wonder about the alcohol fuel, given that it seems to be cropping up more in cars that have never had problems. I'm not even sure where to get non alcohol gas, since all pumps in Washington state say the gas "may contain up to 10 percent ethanol".

I've had to a couple of times long ago. The FI systems are sure alot more reliable in cold start than carbs. Especially non enriched triple webers.

I'll try and find the thread on NWN, but this same topic came up. One member posted a link to a site that had a decent list of gas stations that don't use any ethanol.

I'll edit this post once I find it.

Cool to know Z Tyler!

NWN=Northwest News Network??

Cool to know Z Tyler!

NWN=Northwest News Network??

Finally found the link, sadly none in Everett or Spokane.

http://pure-gas.org/index.jsp?stateprov=WA

The site also has many other states listed for those that are interested. Also NWN = Northwest Nissans. More of a 240sx forum but they generally host good meets.

Thanks, Tyler! Only Colville near me over here, but still 60 miles away! Maybe I'll try Idaho..

FWIW-we don't have ethanol in our gas here and i'm havingf the same issue.

FWIW-we don't have ethanol in our gas here and i'm havingf the same issue.

Are you sure, Z train? I know the federal mandate to use 10 percent ethanol is making it's way into most states. Have you looked at the gas pumps where you are and read the "fine print" lately?

Anywhere in town I've bought gas in the last 2-3 years has been 10% ethanol, with 85% ethanol popping up here and there.

The only places that have straight gasoline anymore are way out in the country around these parts.

I'll try the hood pop trick, and see if that improves things. Pretty lame that those ugly louvers datsun cut into the 280's hoods aren't doing their job...has anyone dabbled with installing a 280zx manifold cooling fan on their 77-78 z's? My valve cover and block both have extra bosses and tapped holes, which might work for installing the fan and duct, with a little modification...I'm thinking of using a thermostat switch, so it will run for a little while after the engine is shut down...any thoughts on this?