1st long trip in 75 280z 400+ one day

[Dave WM]

The plan is to drive to pike's peak, from central Florida next year. On to Mt. Rushmore after that. But wanted at least a trial run much shorter just to see how the car (and I) would hold up with lots of continuous hours. So a run from central Florida to central Alabama was in order (family visit). I decided to stay off the interstates, frankly the white knuckle traffic on I-75 in a car that small makes me nervous. So I took some very nice lightly traveled but still 4 land divided (US 27 and US 19) roads. This lets you drive 65 mph with hardly a car in sight. This seems to be right in the Datsuns sweet spot, esp with the 4 speed, and even though it took a couple extra hours it was much more relaxing and I was less frazzeled by the end of the trip. Found a ethonal free station mid trip so gas was not a problem. Temps were cool most of trip (upper 50's to lower 70's) so I did not have to use the AC much (Florida afternoon was the only time, maybe 100 miles). Car ran fine temps never got over the "E" (I have the 170f nissan thermostat), avg about 24mph going about 60-65 most of the way. I was happy with the long time in the seat, even though they are crude by todays standards they were comfortable, by the end of the trip wiht 9hrs I was still feeling like I could go another 4 easy. I still have some things to do, I noticed a slight wobble when applying brakes I assume warped disc, still need to finish seats (only did the bottom have foam and back to do), replace soft brake lines (not leaking or dry rotted but I have no idea how old they are), get the rad rodded out (some build up in it) as the trip will be in the summer. Besides that just make some more trips, hope to go to N Ga next to get some hill driving time in.

Edited November 13, 2017 by Dave WM

[S30Driver]

Congrats on the trip Dave.   You didn't mention the transmission,  which one is now in your car?

Don't forget to put Atlanta on your trip list for next October ...    

[Dave WM]

still have the 4 speed in, I have to reassemble the 5 speed one more time (last time I just slapped together to test with no sealant). The plan is to put it in and see if the noise is gone, if not I will try the other 5 speed (late JY pull). For this trip 5th would prob not even be used, since I don't think I will get in it unless I am going 70+. For the Pikes peak I think I will def need the 5 speed for when I am out on those really long interstates. I am still planning the next Ga trip, prob early Dec this year, last year I was almost ready to go before all those terrible fires that hit NGa and Tn.

I am debating on trying to find non interstates for Pikes peak, really just want a low traffic trip.

 

[ensys]

Two 5-speeds;  how posh. For those of us in the Heartland, where old cars in a junkyard are but a fond memory, this is called an embarrassment of riches, for that overdrive gear can be put to very good use in a Z. It allows one to take good advantage of the six's easy availability of good low-speed torque that makes relaxed cruising, without stress, between 2 and 3K rpm in any situation. Around town, I am fond of 2K and skip-shifting to get around. There is nothing like an inline 6.

 

 

 

 

[SteveJ]

20 hours ago, Dave WM said:

still have the 4 speed in, I have to reassemble the 5 speed one more time (last time I just slapped together to test with no sealant). The plan is to put it in and see if the noise is gone, if not I will try the other 5 speed (late JY pull). For this trip 5th would prob not even be used, since I don't think I will get in it unless I am going 70+. For the Pikes peak I think I will def need the 5 speed for when I am out on those really long interstates. I am still planning the next Ga trip, prob early Dec this year, last year I was almost ready to go before all those terrible fires that hit NGa and Tn.

I am debating on trying to find non interstates for Pikes peak, really just want a low traffic trip.

 

Where in Georgia are you planning on visiting? Fellow Z people are always welcome to drop by to visit.

[Dave WM]

The plan it to go to Phenix City, (family) then go up towards Elijay for a scenic run. Maybe as soon as Tday.

need a destination, like a nice BBQ joint around that area to take Dad to.

Edited November 14, 2017 by Dave WM

[JSM]

So the date is set Dave?

Now you need to tell the rest of the story.... 200lbs in tools and another 300lbs in spare parts in the back!

 

[Dave WM]

not specific, just summer time for now, have a bro in law that is going too in his 92 Miata, he is working on his car to get it in shape. But yes the spare will have to be picked carefully, maybe that extra 5 speed  will be included

[SteveJ]

47 minutes ago, Dave WM said:

The plan it to go to Phenix City, (family) then go up towards Elijay for a scenic run. Maybe as soon as Tday.

need a destination, like a nice BBQ joint around that area to take Dad to.

@gwri8 and @Redwing are west of Elijay.

For BBQ in Elijay, look up Walker's Fried Pies and BBQ. My wife and I liked that place.

[gwri8]

Wha????   Another Z on my turf?  Sure!  C'mon up!   Post or PM me if/when you confirm travel plans and we can meet up.  I'd love to pass on the fine hospitality that Jim 1 and Jim 2 (Zup and S30 driver) showed  me.

[Dave WM]

will give you a shout when closer to confirm but looks most like Friday after thanksgiving.

[gwri8]

Black Friday,  that will work.  My wife will be out shopping.....all.....day...... so I'll have some spare time for sure.