Subject: 1980 280 ZX
Date: Friday, 14 May 1999
From: zdoc <zdoc@yosemite.net>

Hi Doc,

A crazy driver ran a red light and totaled out my 1980 280 ZX a couple of weeks ago. I’ve found another 1980 280 ZX with a cherry body. I had just had a brand new factory engine installed in my 5 speed totaled Z and was in the process of restoring it. The one that I found is an automatic. My question is can I put my new engine and the 5 speed into the automatic Z without too much trouble?? I know the engine is no problem but the 5 speed needs the clutch and brake pedal changed.

Any help or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Blister

Hi there, Doc here, Yes you can changeover the automatic with the stick components. The engine swap with transmission will use the same mounts. The drive shaft should be the same, but you must lay them side by side to see if they are the same length and that the yokes are the same slip fit. The pedal assembly will have to be changed over and the plate is there in the firewall to remove so that you can install the clutch master cylinder and steel; line that goes to the clop on the passenger's side of the lower frame rail. The flex hose to the clutch slave should fit right up. The hole in the console I believe will have
the stick come out in the same place too. Save your wreck in case you don't like the gear ratio in the rear differential, you will want to exchange the R-200 differential from the damaged unit. I am not certain but I believe that they have different gear ratios, so you need to make that determination. All the electricals, and the EFI system will interchange with the old unit.

Are these Federal cars or California SMOG equipment? You will need to get the donor Smogged after you complete the transfer. I don't think that the ECU's are different, but you must check that too. Do both engines have the O2 sensor in the
exhaust manifold? The production dates should indicate similarities.

I hope that this helps you.......Are you a ZONC Member?........ How did you hear about me?.........

ZDOC OUT

Hi Doc,

Thanks for answering my questions so promptly. You were a big help. When I get all done with this project, I'll let you know what, if any problems I had. It’ll take me a few weeks maybe even a couple of months but I’ll get back to you.

I bought both Zs from the original owners, and they are California smog equipped. That was one of my first concerns so I called Motor V. and they said they didn't see any problem as long as I’m installing the same engine. The only problem they could think of is the idle and timing settings, I looked them up in my Z manual and they are the same.

I’m not a ZONC member, I found their Web Site through the Sacramento Bee. I found you through their Web Site and I’m sure glad that I did, you’ve been a great help.

Blister