geezer

Looking great Randy! At least the to do list can be checked off while it's being driven. Stripes look real nice!

Sleepyzzz - If you do (and you should), use the HPK253 kit make a note of the part numbers and physical dimensions of the strut inserts & springs to compare with the HPK251 kit. Hopefully, it will help someone in the future when this situation comes up again. Also, the Ebay seller of the kits should change his application claim to 240Z 70-73 for the HPK251 kit, or at least specify early 74 260Z two seater only.

sleepyzzz - Glad to hear you've got a handle on the problem. I think your best bet is to go with the complete HP253 kit, which is made to work together. You don't want to mix and match and compound your problem. It can't be that hard to find a set of the larger strut towers. Too bad your getting pressure from your mechanic though. Can't blame him for needing the floor space. Good Luck & keep us posted.

There must be a reason why most dealers selling the Tokico #HPK251 kit specify the application as being 240Z 70-73. Possibly, to avoid the very problem sleepyzzz has now? I'm guessing, the springs in this kit will be too soft for a 74 2+2 even if the strut inserts can be used, because of the increased weight. The reason I offered my springs to JeffG78 for testing was to find the rates to compare with his on his 78 280Z. Both his and mine have the same part numbers but are distictly different parts. As far as the original question on the price of the Tokicos and comparison with other combos, I think the price is great if you get the desired results. I have no first hand experience with any combo and have never even driven my Z yet. I am only relying on the feedback from others. I don't think I will even use the Tokico kit unless I rattle my teeth out with the setup that came with the car. That's another thread.

Jon - Correct me if I'm wrong, but even with the correct spacers he will still have the wrong springs which came with the kit.

sleepyzzz - All reference to kit #HPK251 states 240Z 70 -73. The Ebay seller is just selling them ( and also claiming they are for 70 - 74 1/2). He then directs complaint to Tokico. Tokico is using the same part numbers for different springs as well. Someone should point out the many problems our members have had, to Tokico. All because they do not supply adequate information to the end user. I believe they justify using the same part numbers because the kits are intended to be used together. On the other hand, individual pieces with the same part numbers as the pieces in the kit, are different parts. Confusing for sure. The Ebay seller is misrepresenting the HPK251 kit.

I'm not sure because it never came up before but if my memory is right I did see somewhere that they were not for a 2+2. Better do some more research. The added weight would make a difference for sure.

sleepyzzz - Is this what you have for the rear?

Graeme - Can you describe garnet sand? I think it could be what we call black diamond here. Very sharp edged, fast cutting? I'm looking forward to see the pics you posted when approved. I followed your link to your imagestation album. Very impressive and recommended viewing.

I have been researching for the best method to use for restoring the original finish to aluminum castings (carbs, trans. case etc.). I have bead blasted some parts in the past and found it to be too harsh. I have not tried walnut shells or vapour blasting. I have heard that dry ice blasting is not as abrasive and gives a better result than vapour but have not seen any examples. What is everyone else using and has anyone tried dry ice?

Thanks for the update Carl http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&viewitem=&ru=http%3A%2F%2Fsearch.ebay.com%3A80%2F150105356624_W0QQfromZR40QQfviZ1&item=150105356624&rd=1

Looks like you are almost set. I don't know what type of spray equipment you are using but maybe you should cover anything you don't want spray dust to get on. Another problem you will experience is your shoes sticking to the ground sheet. Keep a shallow pan of water close by to dip you shoes in when nessesary. Lastly Good Luck & make Enrique proud!

Welcome Guy - Nice cars. Interesting story on the 71 also. Here's a suggestion. Ask Mike to change your user name to ButterscotchZ. Then tell your dad he can't possibly paint the car silver :classic: PS-Maybe ButterscotchZ is taken too?

With that much rust damage it might be a good idea to keep an eye on your door and fender gaps until you get the new pans welded in. Use good white, stiff cardboard and make templates up to cover the holes left when you cut back to good metal on your firewall. That way you will not waste any metal making patch pieces. You will also find out how much to buy. Take your time and think it out, trying to do it with as few pieces as possible. With a little work you will able to mold the nessesary pieces nicely. Good luck and keep the pics coming as you go.

And the hits just keep coming! That sure looks like Arne's original. Do you have a pic of just the grommet? It wouldn't concern me if the unseen portion isn't exact, as long as it fits tightly.

Born 12/50 - That makes me 25 with 31 years experience. I first drove a Z the summer of 1970 and never owned one till last summer. Hope to actually drive it next summer.

Don't think I posted yet, couldn't find it. 10/70 HLS30 11730

It will match up with the ports and there are no fitment issues. The primaries are too small though and you'd be better off with the stock manifold, which is pretty good to start with.

I opened up my differential to find out the gear ratio and check the general condition of it. I haven't dismantled it yet. When I took the cover off, I was expecting more gear oil to come out than what did. I don't know offhand what the capacity should be. There is a varnish buildup that actually peels off. I am wondering if this a result of sitting idle for so many years, running it with a low oil level and overheating or something else? The pattern is looking good with minimal wear and there is no visable damage. Has anyone seen a film you can peel off in a differental before and if so was it from overheating? Should I just flush it out good? It's hard to see in the pic where I peeled it off.

Enjoyed that Vic! You're having more fun than me :disappoin We have an abandoned logging road north of here I'm going to do with a camera mount one day. 4 wheel drift heaven!

What's a slide rule grandpa?