Looking at Swaping in a 5 speed from a 81-83 zx how much work is involved in this swap, what all do i have to do?

This was posted in the tech article section and should have all the info you need! enjoy.

http://people.ucsc.edu/~crearly/T5install.htm

That artical is specifically for installing the Borg-Warner T-5 transmission from a 280ZX Turbo.

To install a FS5C71B from a 280Z and N/A 280ZX,

Find one,

take out the four speed,

put in the 5 speed.

Easy, yes?

Well, that may be a little simplistic. Here's my write-up, when I swapped up to a 5 speed Vic's 5 Speed Adventure

This is just what I was looking for! Thanks!

oops forgot to mention its a 74 260z if that makes any differnce,

as long as i dont get the a turbo car im fine? the cross members bolt up? drive shaft hooks in? etc?

It bolts right in. Everything hooks right up. About the only thing you'll have to change is the speedo gear.

I just got my Z today. It is a '75 280 with a 4-speed. I noticed it tachs up to about 4000 rpms at highway speeds. Is it worth swapping in a 5-speed for less wear on the engine? How much better is the mileage? How much does it help with acceleration?

Sorry if this has been covered extensively, but I am a newb to the Z world. I must say, after the 4 hour drive home, I am really starting to love the car... especially since I have finally figured out most of the controls and whatnot.

I don't think it really helps much with acceleration. I have a 1978 280Z that originally had a 5 speed. That trans died so I replaced it with a 82 Maxima 5spd which is the same as a ZX trans. The case is aluminum instead of cast iron and 5th gear is lower. I picked up about 1.1 highway mpg but other than that I don't really notice much difference in normal street driving. Overall, however, I would say the swap is worthwhile. I also went with the 2+2/Turbo clutch.

For 5 speeds out of Z's from 77' up to 79' the ratios are all the same as the 4 speed, so if you like your current shift ratios on the four speed, go with the older transmission.

I originally installed a 79' 5-speed in place of my 3 speed automatic. The differential from my automaic is a 3.545 ratio R180. So, my RPMs at 75mph was just a bit over 3100. When I installed an 82' gearbox, the RPMs dropped to 2600. I did lose some punch on the lower end, so I may swap it back until I swap out my motor for an L28.