5 Speed Swap

[Xargon321]

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?

[allknowingbald1]

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

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

[Victor Laury]

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

[inZane240]

This is just what I was looking for! Thanks!

[Xargon321]

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?

[sblake01]

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

[venom42]

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.

[sblake01]

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.

[alien-e]

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.