Posted May 15, 20177 yr comment_520946 I have a 78 280z with 0 compression in cylinder 1 and limited in another. I had car to.classic mechanic who suggested rebuild of the engine. It starts but makes loud ping sound running. He did not want to to do work because he was not familiar with Datsun. Could not find replacement engine either. How do I find a mechanic to do work, and what is realistic cost? He said 5k which seemed high. Body is solid so fixing seems right idea, but I could use advice. Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/ Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr comment_520949 You need to tell us where you're located. Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520949 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr Author comment_520958 I live near Pottstown PA in the Philly suburbs Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520958 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr comment_520959 I wouldn't run that engine anymore. That will do more harm than good. Can you pull the engine and deliver it? I might be able to find time to build it. It's hard to estimate a cost until it is disassembled. My race engine was strong enough to finish 3rd but it needed a rebore, new pistons and the crank turned so you never know. A rebuild for your engine could easily cost $3000. Chuck Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520959 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr comment_520966 Did your mechanic figure out the reason for the low compression? I'd want to know what's wrong before a rebuild. There's many reasons for low compression that can be repaired without a complete rebuild. Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520966 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr Author comment_520968 Because of his lack of familiararity with the engine, he didn't remove the head. He simply measured the compression. Based on the clicking sound I shut it down right away and didn't run it longer. I can't pull the engine myself and had it towed back to my place. It sounds just like this (not mine but the same) Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520968 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr comment_520969 What's your skill level? Are you comfortable pulling the valve cover off yourself? And I'm not too far from you. Maybe half hour. Welcome aboard neighbor! Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520969 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr comment_520974 I agree with the Captain. Pull the valve cover. It's easy. (Did your mechanic do that?) That tapping noise sounds like it is coming from the valve train. Look for a worn camshaft or loose pieces. (both are doubtful) If all looks OK, adjust the valves and take another compression test. BTW, although this may sound complicated if you've not done it before, it's all pretty basic and quite easy to understand and accomplish with a repair manual and a few hand tools. Adjusting the valve lash is part of a regular tune-up on Zs. It's a good thing to learn. Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520974 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr comment_520982 Could be a lash pad popped out? I had one come off and have read where others have too. Edited May 15, 20177 yr by siteunseen Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520982 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr comment_520990 1 hour ago, siteunseen said: Could be a lash pad popped out? I had one come off and have read where others have too. One of the loose pieces to look for. Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-520990 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr comment_521016 If all else does not work, go to Z Car Source website, they sell rebuilt long blocks. I am in the process of installing a rebuilt L24 from Z Car in my '72. Will let you know what I think once I get further into my build...Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Classic Zcar Club mobile Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-521016 Share on other sites More sharing options...
May 15, 20177 yr Author comment_521020 Thanks all, my skill level is novice. I can change filters and have done as much as rebuilt a mower engine and some carb work, but never his deep into the engine. They didn't take the valve cover off, and I agree that the sound seems like it is right under the cover. It wasn't started since the early 2000s and didn't have mechanical issues before it was mothballed. I also have moisture coming from the tailpipe but it was idling well before the clicking started. Link to comment https://www.classiczcars.com/forums/topic/57728-engine-rebuild/#findComment-521020 Share on other sites More sharing options...
Create an account or sign in to comment