ok so im swapping in my fairly well built L28 into my 71, now should i stay with the 4 speed that has a new clutch in it or should i save up for a 5 speed and do the swap? anybody ever use a built l28 with a 4 speed?

whatever then

dero,

Just a suggestion.....save up some $$$ and get yourself a 82 - 83 280ZX 5 speed and 3.90 gears. You will be so happy you did. I found mine at a pic-a-parts for less than $200.00 and that included an R200 diff with 3.90 ratio. Of course I had to remove the parts myself. If you install only the 5 speed with your original gears, your gearing will be less than ideal. Good luck on your adventure.

As a lifetime mechanic friend says--Do you want to open that can??Just installing the motor will open more unknown cans before that task is done .Then you can drive the car.You may still open that other can at any time.Buying those other items is just the start.Then you should be thinking the "while you're there"I want new bushings,u joints shocks etc.Myself I love it when I can drive my car.Even if it sits in the garage for months,I know I can go anytime.If it's down I bust my butt until all is well.That said -Do you want to open another" can' with the engine out "can "still open?

I did mine in steps. First I did the L28 and had the 4 speed. Not too bad except when I was cruising down the highway. 75 mph = about 3500 rpm. Later when I installed the five speed out of a 81 not much changed except for the rpm's dropped about 800 rpm when I got to put it in fifth. about 2700 rpm. IMO that was the only difference.