Checking out a 280Z today, what to look for?

[MazterDizazter]

Hey all,

I'm looking at a '78 280Z today near me. My 240Z is taking longer to restore than I thought, so I thought maybe I'd try to find another car to do some small repairs on and just drive. Apprently this one will only run off starting fluid, which suggests to me a bad fuel pump or severely clogged injectors. I'm not too savvy on the 280Z, so are there any specific things I should watch out for? Any help is apprecitated; thanks!

[Zed Head]

Browse through these forums for a little while and you'll get a picture of what you're in for. 280Z EFI is not like 240Z carbs at all. ECU, relays, fuel pump, AFM, injectors all have to work correctly for the engine to run. If the car has sat for a while, you'll probably be in to clutch, brakes and electrical (lights, etc.) also.

Just spend a few minutes reading the threads about 280Zs that won't start or stay running.

It's fun but it will probably take some time (and money)..

[FastWoman]

Mazter, I'd bargain hard if it's not running. The '78 is a fine machine, but the EFI isn't exactly the easiest system to deal with. Unlike with modern cars, there's no OBD II reporting, and the system is open-loop (i.e. with no oxygen sensor). It's very primitive, and it won't run particularly well if everything isn't just right. I'm devoting quite a bit of time and patience to mine, because I'm an electronics geek and have some weird fascination with technologies in their infancy. However, most people would greatly prefer a good, old-fashioned carburetor or two/three/six. That's always an option on the '78, of course.

BTW, I've also owned a '75 -- the first year with EFI. I took quite a bit of time and effort to get that engine right, but I did. I have to say that a properly functioning EFI is so much more responsive and efficient than a carburetor. However, the early L-Jetronic systems will certainly keep you busy with tinkering.

[BMFC]

However, most people would greatly prefer a good, old-fashioned carburetor or two/three/six.

What is two/three/six?

[FastWoman]

dual carbs, triple carbs, or one 1-barrel carb on each of the 6 (or perhaps I'm imagining having seen that one once)

[jellobob777]

Rust clogged gas tanks on a 78 is always a possibility , That is usually the cause of the bad fuel pump. I have been watching that car on CL in Bridgewater drop in price Now at $500 it sounds like a good deal the 5 Speed is worth 1/2 of that

Edited December 12, 2010 by jellobob777