No Headlight relay guide for 260-280z?

[tymarbry]

I have searched endlessly for information on a headlight relay writeup for a 280z (my car) or even a 260z for that matter. Only the 240z. And from the responses I see on forums is that the 240 harness will not work for the 280z.

So can I still use the guides online for making a relay upgrade for my 280z?

There are like 3 different versions that I have seen, maybe more can anyone point to the most reliable or easiest version?

Ive found write ups here:

http://www.zhome.com/DaveRelay/DaveBuild/DaveInstruction.htm

http://zhome.com/ZCMnL/HeadlightRelays/JudkinsRelay.htm

I thought I knew more off the bat, some more easily understood than others.

[SteveJ]

The wire colors in the write up I did are the same in all S30s. The thing I learned from reading these forums and studying wiring diagrams is that the switches are different between the earlier 240Zs and later S30s. (Early 240Zs switched the ground on and off. Others switched the 24 VDC+.)

So, since you can't find one for the 280Z, create your own. (I didn't know a lot about automotive wiring when I did mine 10 years ago.) Study the BE section of the FSM. I think for the 280Z it will show connectors between the engine harness and headlights. Locate those connectors and study the plugs. Post pictures if you want. There is a good chance you can find compatible plugs at Vintage Connections. From there, it's not that difficult. Ask questions here and get answers to create your design. Document your work and post your results.

[tymarbry]

I feel that would be very hard for me and would cause a fire.

And since my Datsun is my daily Im not sure if this relay upgrade will come to fruition. I think I may just buy one unfortunatly.

Black Dragon has a cheap one and other members have them here.

Giving Up +1

[SteveJ]

I bought that harness. I wasn't impressed with it. I replaced the relays and all of the connectors. In other words, I wasted my money. The relays are not common, so if you lose one, good luck replacing it. They also did nothing to weatherproof any of it. In addition it's designed to plug right into the existing headlight connector, so you'd have take the connector apart, drill a hole in the headlight bucket, put in a grommet, thread the wires through the hole and put the connector back together again. It's not exactly plug and play.

[Powderkeg]

Reese,

I bought that harness from Black Dragon and eventually sold it. I really didn't like the workmanship and eventually bought Dave Irwin's (Z's-ondabrain) harness.

I would recommend his harness. You will not be disappointed!

I believe he can alter your existing wiring or send him the extra plugs and he can build one for you.

Have you contacted him?

Dave Ruiz

[tymarbry]

Yeah Im going with Z's harness, Im talking to him now on options. I really-really wish I could do this kind of stuff. But this is my weakest trait. Electric Work.

Thanks all