A brake drum spinning at high speeds held only by a 3D printed mount is one of the sketchiest things I've seen in years, and as a sketchy mechanic myself I 100% approve 😂
@supramike18 On my old Russian sidecar outfits the drums would go a bit oval under hard use. This was solved by fitting an old set of brake shoes with 200 grade sand paper stuck to the linings, gradually adjusting the brake in as the bike was ridden, taking off the high points in the alloy drum and removing the ovalness. I’ve never used any other method. 😊👍
As a 60yr old dude who's worked on so many cars in this condition, I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this. The editing, the humor......LOL.....so great. You've got great talent(s), and you're a solid mechanic!! I literally yelled out, "Winner!" when you lit the tires and drove out of the carport.
Good news! If you procrastinate until 2025 you will no longer need to pass a safety inspection in Texas as they are removing that requirement. I believe in you!
Emission inspections will still apply in locations such as Houston and DFW, but if the car is 25 years old or older, that requirement drops as well. If you register as an Antique (vehicle must be 25 years old or older) then you are exempted from inspections (safety or emissions) of any sort, the registration period is 5 years vs. 1, and it's less expensive to boot. A great option if the car is not daily driven.
Your brake lathe is so terrifying I actually moved backwards in my chair when you first started it up. Brave? Foolish? Successful? You're truly the full package.
I found you because of this project. While waiting for a new part of this series I watched the whole Fiero Series and your two Garage renovation videos. :D I have become a huge fan of this channel and of you as a person. Thank you for making this quality of Art in Video form on RUclips. You are awesome! Greetings from Germany, Friedrich!
@@Thomsonicus I'm sure he's going to go back to something akin to that format once we get into the really time consuming stuff. With this episode mostly qualifying as "basic maintenance" I appreciated that we got more of the witty humor as a stand-in for the technical deep-dives we're going to see once stuff like removing frame rails start entering the equation.
Woo! My favorite gas tank repair channel! Kidding, of course. Your determination and perseverance with all your projects is a real wonderful thing to see. Love your work!
This is probably the best car restoration video I've ever seen. you somehow combine pacing, humor, and knowledge into something so enjoyable to watch. Instant sub after watching parts 1 and 2.
The editing and humor and everything in this is just top notch, Ronald! Been watching for forever and it's so awesome to see how this channel has continued to evolve and improve over time.
AAAAHHHH, you've outdone yourself, Ronnie! The humor, the EDITING, the everything! So satisfying to see the 280Z running properly enough to pass inspection, yaaaay! Full resto is gonna be a treat. You take your time with it, the wait is SO worth it!
Outdone? Bruh a brain tumor appeared from me watching this... Not change the oil and clean everything BEFORE running the engine ... Wth you mean outdone??? Also b*thing about 70$ brake drums DUDE FK YOU MEAN you gotta stop the car safety measures, also the rust like you dead if someone crashes into you buying the Z means you have to have a good budget to buy 2 of those
Man, I'm only 3 minutes in to this and I have to say, you really stepped up your editing game on this one and it shows! You are using animations and sound effects wonderfully here to highlight unspoken details and elevate your natural humor. Great work. I'm rapt for the next one.
We've been a fan of your channel since you started the Fiero project years ago. We never miss an episode - and are glad to see progress coming along on the Z. You've got a great sense of humor, and appreciate your efforts in editing your videos so cinematically. Keep up the great work and we look forward to more videos!
Huge respect to you for how much effort you put into these videos. Hours of work turned into an awesome experience through even more hours of editing is nothing to sneeze at.
I'm a 29 year old girl who doesn't care about cars but loves the repair process and one more thing that gets me back to your channel: dude you are quite the STORYTELLER! the edit is on point! Hats off too you!
I paid a grand for a 78 280z that has title issues, floorpan rust, i ripped the carpet out cause it was rotting, and now looking at this video reminded me just how much work im going to have to put into it fun
The My Mechanics channel is also doing a complete restoration on a Datsun Z car. His is a 240Z that he imported from the US to, I think, Switzerland. He's got everything off, including the frame, with the body on a rotisserie. I think his most recent short was capping the side marker lights since they aren't required for Euro operation. Thanks for sharing your amazing work.
I normally don't watch restoration videos but when I saw the 280Z in the thumbnail I immediately clicked and so happy to find your channel because it brings back sweet memories. Growing up in Saudi, my oldest brother used to have a 280Z which I used it to learn driving. We still have it till this day and please please take care of her, maybe give her a fresh paint and btw the wheels look dank good. It's a piece of art
Man my day is made whenever you post a video. From amazing humor to phenomenal editing. You always make it more than a car a restoration video. Hatsoff Sir
22:56 the moment you sprinted out of the garage, i literally shouted. What a great restoration this is. And hands down on how you execute the whole video!
I love seeing someone work on a Z. So far I've only seen two channels where it happens, but they've both made me happy for the time I watched them so there's that. Wish I had the knowledge (and will) to work on cars lol.
Just FYI, when you get to that point, Holley now makes plug-and-play LED headlights called RetroBright that replicate the old 7" sealed beam style and still look 100% original when off. In other words, 3x more light output, but they don't look like typical "fuTuRisTic" LED lights. You can also choose between modern white 5700K or "warm" white 3000K color temps that more closely matches the original look. They're not exactly cheap at $200 per light, but that price includes the actual 7" housing as well as the bulb and plug-and-play harness at that price (when the time comes to replace, you swap only the bulb at a lower cost). IMO, it's money well spent. Being able to actually SEE (and be seen) reliably at night in an older car is a game changer.
i found those 6 years ago in spades (not sold through holley).. but could not find a 5" 4 bulb sets except mailed from India (at least in glass) and then was unclear what bulb they would take, etc. LOL at $200 though it is and will be same $10-20 they've been, just LEDs now that that isn't a magical price multiplier.
@@tannersmyly they probably arent. Nearly every aftermarket headlight, retrofit, or conversion is not legal for road use and doesnt meet dot standards. That's why cars with aftermarket lights are usually so obnoxious
@@isaakwelch3451 In Australia, the Headlights have to meet ADR (Australian Design Rules), and aftermarket Headlights must be certified. Having owned a Beetle for 20 years, the car only got driven once in the dark. But (now), the new (ADR approved) LED Headlights on the Beetle really impress, and makes the car much safer too!
Men... you are by far the best car content creator on RUclips. By far! I literally stop whatever I'm doing to watch your videos. Great work, congratulations!
I just bought a 280zx…it hasn’t ram in idk how long, the wiring is a mess. The rails are falling apart, and i do not even want to think about the gas tank. But after watching this video, i fell motivated to start working on it!
This channel is hands down one of my favorites to watch. Always good content with just the right amount of sarcasm and whit mixed in for comedic effect, and the editing is second to none. I hope you heathens appreciate the level of professionalism young Ronald puts into these videos. Excellent work sir, keep up the good work!
Soon as you said "it just had power and now it doesn't" I knew exactly what was going on. 25 year Datsun Z veteran here. Also, I physically felt your pain on that fuel tank. It's been an ongoing struggle for me for many years
I find it so amazing and satisfying when men are able to turn an old rusty box into a fully functioning and running piece of machinery. It all looked so complicated to me, I wouldn't even know where to start, but this guy knew all the ins and outs of what needed to be done. Deserved a subscribe and I will be binging the rest of your videos.
I'd consider myself a pro-level mechanic, and I am insanely entertained by your videos. I've done several frame-off restorations in the past, built many engines (everything from Mazda rotary to a big block Chevy) and am currently working on two AMC Gremlin nut-and-bolt restorations. So I can't say I am really "learning" anything, but damned if I'm not totally entertained. The Fiero project was awesome, as were the Garage videos. I watch you do things like try to turn the drums on a bench grinder, knowing full well that it's a huge mistake and that nothing good is going to come of it, and darned if you don't always seem to pull it off. Production value has definitely improved since the early days, and you're a really funny dude. So thanks for the videos. Least I can do is buy a shirt.
I've had a 1973 240z, a 1976 280z, 1981 280zx and this video brought back some memories. I'm still torn as to if the 240z or 280z were my favorite.. but was not a huge fan of the 280zx. That body repair is going to take some work.. hopefully you are adept at cutting and welding.
@RonaldFinger you don't always upload frequently, but when you do, its always worth watching the content in its entirety! Keep up the great work! Been a fan since the beginning! 👍
I flipped a '78 280Z, then later bought a restored '76 280Z, and I absolutely loved these cars. I think they are the perfect balance of style, function, and value. Fantastic editing, outstanding content, and I'm really looking forward to watching you restore this one.
So pleased you got it running. I think we're always in tune with your emotions throughout the video with the struggles and triumphs so it feels super rewarding when it goes well 😁
I love that you take time to make the videos and put them out once in a while. The quality of the edit andthe finished product can be felt, keep this way of working it really pays off :D Love from Portugal
As so many commented, you have massive stones! That bench grinder setup made me question my own life choices, glad you are working on a piece of history - congrats on all your future endeavors and successes, so happy to have found your channel
The frequency of video releases doesn't bug me at all. These projects take time. It's nice to get a little update every so often and see how things have been going. Nice work!
I love it when someone is just along for the ride, doing something they enjoy. I'm excited to see where this series goes, and of course what the final product might be in the future!
Bought a 2004 silverado 2500 from my buddy that had been sitting for 7 years. It was only running in 3 out of 8 cylinders due to varnish clogging up the injectors and needed a transmission. After I put a $700 transmission and $400 transfer case in it I managed to clean half of the injectors and replace the other half with some used ones out of a motor sitting in the woods. Drove it locally for a few days before I figured out that overdrive was toast... tore into the transmission as much as I could hoping it was bad fluid or something but ended up having to send it to transmission shop who told me the torque convertor was shot and burned up the overdrive clutches. 3 months and over $2k later its shifting like a dream, still had to buy new injectors though 😅
Those 6 cylinders are immortal, it was clearly struggling at first. As you said, very dangerous what you did with the drum brakes haha. Yeah gas tanks are a pain. No oil change? REALLY? Hahaha. Great video! It was very entertaining! And insightful for those new in cars
I love restoration and glad you are not letting it go to a scrap yard. Always cool to see somebody fix a broken "thing" then rather throwing it away and buy another "thing"
The shot leading up to the 23 minute mark was INCREDIBLE. Whether is was acting or your good fortune to catch such a genuine reaction, I feel like I could see the gears turning in her head like “geez, Ron sure took off loud…..wait that was tire squeal……HOLY SHIT HE FIXED IT” great work
I dont think ive ever enjoyed watching somone rebuild a car... Any car you've worked on, and laughed so much! Great channel Ronald. Keep up the great videos! God Bless
hey man I met you and saw the Z over the summer, as soon as I saw this video I got super excited to see how it turned out. Amazing to see its progress, excited to see what you have in store for it.
Your pacing and video style is incredible! The edit at 8:47 had me truly wondering how you pulled the effect off, I definitely have my guesses, but the effect plays so well as the onus of the joke. Truly incredible finding the follow-up to this series a full 4 years later. I hope you continue finding projects like this that lend themselves to pouring yourself into them as this one has. :)
I don't comment much on RUclips channels. But, this have to be one of the best informational automotive stories I've seen in a while. I own a Subaru Impreza WRX STI imported from Okinawa and I can not wait to work on my car the way you did yours.
I feel like it was yesterday when I watched the purchase of this. You r amazing at this, made me laugh many times, you actually stand out a lot in this industry, way above most. Hope you will have this car rebuild, cant wait!
I had lost track of your channel for a year or so and I'm so happy that I actually had saved some music you linked in a previous video to your soundcloud as I loved it, thank you Ronald for your awesome videowork. Cheers
New sub! Man, this brought back memories. Back in high school ('91), my dad rolls home with a '74 280z on a trailer he got from a buddy at work for $200, Brown, blown head gasket, rust all over, trashed interior and bad U-joints all around. Took us 6 months to completely transform her into a ridiculously fun car, bright red with 300ZX rims. Thanks for bringing back some great memories!
Stumbled across your video & was more than pleasantly surprised. your mechanical skills are good, your project choice was good, but your video editing SKILLZ put this video above 99% of your competition. Great job! i loved it.
really stoked for this series, you really capture what its like to bring these old cars back to life. this project is making me miss my 84' rx7 and my 81' 280zx a whole lot lol, maybe its time for another one!
THANKYOU!!!! Its been to long brotha we needs get these videos a little closer together i know life happens and you got responsibilities but cmon man cant leave us fans hangin like this lol
I love seeing how far you've come, your content just keeps getting better and better! I will happily buy a shirt if it means supporting someone with as much passion as you.
Man! I praise you! What a major inspiration you are to me. I love the build and resto! I actually thought it was a damaged clutch when you said no power. But when the spark plug replace was done, that run was unexpected and I fckin love it! Looking forward for more builds and major restoration of this car. I am excited! More powahhh!
God damn it, I love these videos Ronnie. The frustration is palpable. The fixes you come up with are ingenious. The ramshackle 3D printed bench grinder is terrifying. This truly has it all!
Awesome video!! I had a 78 back in 89-90 that ran good, albeit with a clunky transmission, but the sub frame was absolute junk. My misfortune (aside from my general ignorance - I was in love with the idea of owning it and that made me pretty blind) was bringing it (unbeknownst to me) to a friend of the seller for a once over before buying, then back for inspection. They passed it. The next year when I tried to get it inspected again, they failed it in a second for frame rot and the fact that the wheel wells had rotted through to the frame, and would send water GUSHING into the passenger cabin if I drove through a puddle of any significance. Also the passenger side floor was essentially non existent. THANKS ROAD SALT! (North East here) I had to give it up after just one year of ownership. Big sad. I wish you all the luck you need to complete the reno on this beautiful car. I've missed mine for over thirty years.
Love it! The 280Z was the car of my dreams as a kid and it's awesome seeing you bring this beast back to life! Can't wait to see the rest of the restoration.
Not sure how or why I was recommended this video but I’m here. I must say that your editing style is absolutely amazing. You’re extremely funny as well. Take my subscribe and keep up the great work!
i don’t comment on youtube videos often, but that final launch filled me with an indescribable joy that i am unable to put into words. i hope i can give this ability to my ‘73 corolla in the near future.
Here's a link to the shirt if you want one! ronald-finger.creator-spring.com/listing/ronnies-automotive
Hi Ron. Any chance that it will be available in other colours in future? I don't have a body that goes well with beige.
When the next garage update coming? Also love the content
I will absolutely buy a shirt once I have money again, hopefully soon.
great work. I had a 76 280, The Rust removal will be the biggest part of the restoration.
You wanna sell a bunch of merch make that Fiero a giveaway car :D
The rust holes under the tailgate had me shocked, that's a lot of work to repair! Good for you that you don't have to in Texas 😅
Collaboration to “make a new one” incoming? If it wasn’t that far…
Was about to send this video your way
ahahhahahah. I knew you were here!
Howly cow... could this be a restoration fight?
Unless your time is worth zero, I'd look into buying new panels
A brake drum spinning at high speeds held only by a 3D printed mount is one of the sketchiest things I've seen in years, and as a sketchy mechanic myself I 100% approve 😂
@supramike18 On my old Russian sidecar outfits the drums would go a bit oval under hard use. This was solved by fitting an old set of brake shoes with 200 grade sand paper stuck to the linings, gradually adjusting the brake in as the bike was ridden, taking off the high points in the alloy drum and removing the ovalness.
I’ve never used any other method. 😊👍
he could have installed the drum the other way and spin it using engine after getting it running 😂
I'm still waiting for my butt cheeks to unclench
Sideways sketchy, but it works, carry on Mr. Finger,...............................>>>>>>>
a simple 20$ variable speed control dial would make it less sketchy-maybe.
As a 60yr old dude who's worked on so many cars in this condition, I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this. The editing, the humor......LOL.....so great. You've got great talent(s), and you're a solid mechanic!! I literally yelled out, "Winner!" when you lit the tires and drove out of the carport.
Even tho I'm a youthful 56.9, I also enjoyed everything about the rebuild. You have the patience of a Saint!!!
Even the part with the shocked person with the bin. That was funny as 🤣
My first thought was " this is an old geezer!" Then I realized I'll be 60 next year...
@@Toobst8kerthat's Ronnie's wife lol
One of the few car restoration channels I don't have to play at 1.5x or 2x speed.
bro fr. he’s so entertaining too
Good news! If you procrastinate until 2025 you will no longer need to pass a safety inspection in Texas as they are removing that requirement. I believe in you!
Mad Max: Texas
@@christopher5476Seriously, what the hell? Is the US going back in time or something?
ahah wat
Emission inspections will still apply in locations such as Houston and DFW, but if the car is 25 years old or older, that requirement drops as well. If you register as an Antique (vehicle must be 25 years old or older) then you are exempted from inspections (safety or emissions) of any sort, the registration period is 5 years vs. 1, and it's less expensive to boot. A great option if the car is not daily driven.
Same in North Carolina I have a 1990 Ford Festiva and they just send me my registration sticker every year lol
that "i only lost 3 fingers" skit was legitimately horrifying I physically jumped
Same!😅
I got half a heart attack!
me too...
its only then that i sow his last name lol
my body took screenshot 😅
Your brake lathe is so terrifying I actually moved backwards in my chair when you first started it up. Brave? Foolish? Successful? You're truly the full package.
I once had a cutting blade fly off my dremel (got distracted by my husband and forgot to tighten it) and this video terrified me more than that lmao.
I flinched too.
your quote on how to check if your cylinder is dead or not at 22:30 actually helped me diagnose my trucks misfire issue thanks man.
Indeed a good tip!
I found you because of this project. While waiting for a new part of this series I watched the whole Fiero Series and your two Garage renovation videos. :D
I have become a huge fan of this channel and of you as a person. Thank you for making this quality of Art in Video form on RUclips. You are awesome!
Greetings from Germany, Friedrich!
more greetings from Germnay, Christian! 🙂
Even more greetings from Germany, Christian too 🤙
His Fiero restoration series is honestly RUclips perfection. Super pumped to see his plans for the 280z!
Also if you haven't already go watch Fuzzy Dice Projects his production values are also top notch!
Love the absurd humor and deadpan presentation in this one! Fun and faster paced than usual!
Wasn't the pace and materiał form the firat thing that drove people to this Channel? Hmm
@@Thomsonicus I'm sure he's going to go back to something akin to that format once we get into the really time consuming stuff. With this episode mostly qualifying as "basic maintenance" I appreciated that we got more of the witty humor as a stand-in for the technical deep-dives we're going to see once stuff like removing frame rails start entering the equation.
Woo! My favorite gas tank repair channel!
Kidding, of course. Your determination and perseverance with all your projects is a real wonderful thing to see. Love your work!
🤣
This is probably the best car restoration video I've ever seen. you somehow combine pacing, humor, and knowledge into something so enjoyable to watch. Instant sub after watching parts 1 and 2.
The editing and humor and everything in this is just top notch, Ronald! Been watching for forever and it's so awesome to see how this channel has continued to evolve and improve over time.
AAAAHHHH, you've outdone yourself, Ronnie! The humor, the EDITING, the everything! So satisfying to see the 280Z running properly enough to pass inspection, yaaaay! Full resto is gonna be a treat. You take your time with it, the wait is SO worth it!
This was going to be my post!!! Let's hope the next vid comes shortly!!😊
Outdone? Bruh a brain tumor appeared from me watching this... Not change the oil and clean everything BEFORE running the engine ... Wth you mean outdone??? Also b*thing about 70$ brake drums DUDE FK YOU MEAN you gotta stop the car safety measures, also the rust like you dead if someone crashes into you buying the Z means you have to have a good budget to buy 2 of those
@@landonmarx4753 It won't 😢
Man, I'm only 3 minutes in to this and I have to say, you really stepped up your editing game on this one and it shows! You are using animations and sound effects wonderfully here to highlight unspoken details and elevate your natural humor. Great work. I'm rapt for the next one.
22:55 that reaction to the burnout was absolutely amazing, fit so well to the beat drop too!
We've been a fan of your channel since you started the Fiero project years ago. We never miss an episode - and are glad to see progress coming along on the Z. You've got a great sense of humor, and appreciate your efforts in editing your videos so cinematically. Keep up the great work and we look forward to more videos!
There isn't many episodes to miss 😂 One thing that puts me off the channel is lack of videos!
Oh yeah. It’s a good day when Ron post a new video 😊
Huge respect to you for how much effort you put into these videos. Hours of work turned into an awesome experience through even more hours of editing is nothing to sneeze at.
That tire spin at 22:55 *chef's kiss*
I'm a 29 year old girl who doesn't care about cars but loves the repair process and one more thing that gets me back to your channel: dude you are quite the STORYTELLER! the edit is on point! Hats off too you!
If you care about the repair process, you definitely care about cars lmao
@@Mr.Gribble haha. Maybe. I Look at house renovations with the same interest
@@airi8395it's all about the journey, moreso than the destination.
haz el mini mini
I was gonna say the same thing. The videos are SO good!
I paid a grand for a 78 280z that has title issues, floorpan rust, i ripped the carpet out cause it was rotting, and now looking at this video reminded me just how much work im going to have to put into it
fun
The My Mechanics channel is also doing a complete restoration on a Datsun Z car. His is a 240Z that he imported from the US to, I think, Switzerland. He's got everything off, including the frame, with the body on a rotisserie. I think his most recent short was capping the side marker lights since they aren't required for Euro operation.
Thanks for sharing your amazing work.
I was just gonna say the same..the guy who took it completely apart,right?
Yeah, that project is insane and will be epic.
Yeah ditto, following both restorations closely, super excited.
Oh great, now you've given our poor Ronnie a complex, thinking he has to compete with MyMechanic's restoration. 🤣🤣
Yep, I'm watching him too. He probably popped up because I'm watching Ron. Doesn't Kevin at Junkyard Digs have a Z car as well? I think he has a 260.
I normally don't watch restoration videos but when I saw the 280Z in the thumbnail I immediately clicked and so happy to find your channel because it brings back sweet memories.
Growing up in Saudi, my oldest brother used to have a 280Z which I used it to learn driving. We still have it till this day and please please take care of her, maybe give her a fresh paint and btw the wheels look dank good. It's a piece of art
Man my day is made whenever you post a video. From amazing humor to phenomenal editing. You always make it more than a car a restoration video. Hatsoff Sir
Man I just wish the guy who had that log book and took such good care of this car could see this video. It would probably bring a tear to his eye.
22:56 the moment you sprinted out of the garage, i literally shouted. What a great restoration this is.
And hands down on how you execute the whole video!
btw speaking about that moment can someone tell me what the miusic is
Fights - AGST
@@gwizdor7753
@@gwizdor7753”Fights” by AGST
fights - AGST@@gwizdor7753
@@gwizdor7753 AGST- Fights
I love seeing someone work on a Z. So far I've only seen two channels where it happens, but they've both made me happy for the time I watched them so there's that. Wish I had the knowledge (and will) to work on cars lol.
I *love* all the editing you did with this episode. It feels new and fun for you, and I think the effort you put in was worth it!
Just FYI, when you get to that point, Holley now makes plug-and-play LED headlights called RetroBright that replicate the old 7" sealed beam style and still look 100% original when off. In other words, 3x more light output, but they don't look like typical "fuTuRisTic" LED lights. You can also choose between modern white 5700K or "warm" white 3000K color temps that more closely matches the original look. They're not exactly cheap at $200 per light, but that price includes the actual 7" housing as well as the bulb and plug-and-play harness at that price (when the time comes to replace, you swap only the bulb at a lower cost). IMO, it's money well spent. Being able to actually SEE (and be seen) reliably at night in an older car is a game changer.
i found those 6 years ago in spades (not sold through holley).. but could not find a 5" 4 bulb sets except mailed from India (at least in glass) and then was unclear what bulb they would take, etc. LOL at $200 though it is and will be same $10-20 they've been, just LEDs now that that isn't a magical price multiplier.
Are those holley lights DOT approved for road use? If so I may need a pair or three
@@isaakwelch3451 I feel sure that they are
@@tannersmyly they probably arent. Nearly every aftermarket headlight, retrofit, or conversion is not legal for road use and doesnt meet dot standards. That's why cars with aftermarket lights are usually so obnoxious
@@isaakwelch3451 In Australia, the Headlights have to meet ADR (Australian Design Rules), and aftermarket Headlights must be certified. Having owned a Beetle for 20 years, the car only got driven once in the dark. But (now), the new (ADR approved) LED Headlights on the Beetle really impress, and makes the car much safer too!
I can't believe this channel hasn't blown up past a million yet. You're by far one of the better RUclips content creators i know!
Men... you are by far the best car content creator on RUclips. By far! I literally stop whatever I'm doing to watch your videos. Great work, congratulations!
Man, you make great videos! You got a new sub!
He does
Looks like someone was up late last night working on their DeLorean 😀
glad to have another brother in the loop
Oh damn, Alex found Ronnie Finger!
I'm delaying the rest of my morning activities just to watch this. Time well spent!
I just bought a 280zx…it hasn’t ram in idk how long, the wiring is a mess. The rails are falling apart, and i do not even want to think about the gas tank. But after watching this video, i fell motivated to start working on it!
I had one. Like a go cart for the road that my 6'4" frame sat in very comfortably.
oh my god.. You're not long for this world, my guy. That plastic brake bracket was legitimately horrifying to watch.
This channel is hands down one of my favorites to watch. Always good content with just the right amount of sarcasm and whit mixed in for comedic effect, and the editing is second to none. I hope you heathens appreciate the level of professionalism young Ronald puts into these videos. Excellent work sir, keep up the good work!
Soon as you said "it just had power and now it doesn't" I knew exactly what was going on. 25 year Datsun Z veteran here. Also, I physically felt your pain on that fuel tank. It's been an ongoing struggle for me for many years
So steer clear of the Z's eh?
@@cmcz1207 just old car problems. I've had my current one for 13 years. It's been pretty good to me
I find it so amazing and satisfying when men are able to turn an old rusty box into a fully functioning and running piece of machinery. It all looked so complicated to me, I wouldn't even know where to start, but this guy knew all the ins and outs of what needed to be done. Deserved a subscribe and I will be binging the rest of your videos.
Glad to have you back, Herr Finger. I was starting to worry about you.
I'd consider myself a pro-level mechanic, and I am insanely entertained by your videos. I've done several frame-off restorations in the past, built many engines (everything from Mazda rotary to a big block Chevy) and am currently working on two AMC Gremlin nut-and-bolt restorations. So I can't say I am really "learning" anything, but damned if I'm not totally entertained. The Fiero project was awesome, as were the Garage videos. I watch you do things like try to turn the drums on a bench grinder, knowing full well that it's a huge mistake and that nothing good is going to come of it, and darned if you don't always seem to pull it off. Production value has definitely improved since the early days, and you're a really funny dude. So thanks for the videos. Least I can do is buy a shirt.
i love these videos. Produce them at any speed that works for you, just don't stop making them.
I've had a 1973 240z, a 1976 280z, 1981 280zx and this video brought back some memories. I'm still torn as to if the 240z or 280z were my favorite.. but was not a huge fan of the 280zx. That body repair is going to take some work.. hopefully you are adept at cutting and welding.
@RonaldFinger you don't always upload frequently, but when you do, its always worth watching the content in its entirety! Keep up the great work! Been a fan since the beginning! 👍
Take us along for the rest of the garage update, what you did so far was good content!
I flipped a '78 280Z, then later bought a restored '76 280Z, and I absolutely loved these cars. I think they are the perfect balance of style, function, and value. Fantastic editing, outstanding content, and I'm really looking forward to watching you restore this one.
Dude you are actually a genius in the literal definition. The filtration system you set up with a motorcycle battery blew my mind
I can't imagine the satisfaction you must've felt when you drove it off the driveway, but I was cheering and clapping. I loved this!
So pleased you got it running. I think we're always in tune with your emotions throughout the video with the struggles and triumphs so it feels super rewarding when it goes well 😁
I love that you take time to make the videos and put them out once in a while. The quality of the edit andthe finished product can be felt, keep this way of working it really pays off :D Love from Portugal
You can really feel the extra effort that went into the edit!! Great job man 🔥
As a native of Houston, I would agree that Houston is definitely one of the cities of all time.
Your sense of humor is great. This was the first video that I've seen of you, certainly not the last. Great work!
As so many commented, you have massive stones! That bench grinder setup made me question my own life choices, glad you are working on a piece of history - congrats on all your future endeavors and successes, so happy to have found your channel
The frequency of video releases doesn't bug me at all. These projects take time. It's nice to get a little update every so often and see how things have been going. Nice work!
After watching fiero restoration, can't wait to see more of this!
I love it when someone is just along for the ride, doing something they enjoy. I'm excited to see where this series goes, and of course what the final product might be in the future!
My first car was a 1978 Datzun 280z and it's still one of my favorite, really wish I still had it.
Just wonderful storytelling Ronnie. The shots from behind the car were sublime. Thank you for taking the time to share this with us
I LOVE the editing in this video! This was so worth the wait
Always worth waiting for these videos. Glad she will be getting the full restoration treatment. Looking forward to it!
Bought a 2004 silverado 2500 from my buddy that had been sitting for 7 years. It was only running in 3 out of 8 cylinders due to varnish clogging up the injectors and needed a transmission. After I put a $700 transmission and $400 transfer case in it I managed to clean half of the injectors and replace the other half with some used ones out of a motor sitting in the woods. Drove it locally for a few days before I figured out that overdrive was toast... tore into the transmission as much as I could hoping it was bad fluid or something but ended up having to send it to transmission shop who told me the torque convertor was shot and burned up the overdrive clutches. 3 months and over $2k later its shifting like a dream, still had to buy new injectors though 😅
Those 6 cylinders are immortal, it was clearly struggling at first. As you said, very dangerous what you did with the drum brakes haha. Yeah gas tanks are a pain. No oil change? REALLY? Hahaha. Great video! It was very entertaining! And insightful for those new in cars
I’d just swap out those drum brakes for some discs
@@zsu-23-4shilka2I guess he kept the drums because of authenticity
I love restoration and glad you are not letting it go to a scrap yard. Always cool to see somebody fix a broken "thing" then rather throwing it away and buy another "thing"
The shot leading up to the 23 minute mark was INCREDIBLE. Whether is was acting or your good fortune to catch such a genuine reaction, I feel like I could see the gears turning in her head like “geez, Ron sure took off loud…..wait that was tire squeal……HOLY SHIT HE FIXED IT” great work
hahah it was 100 percent real
I dont think ive ever enjoyed watching somone rebuild a car... Any car you've worked on, and laughed so much! Great channel Ronald. Keep up the great videos! God Bless
hey man I met you and saw the Z over the summer, as soon as I saw this video I got super excited to see how it turned out. Amazing to see its progress, excited to see what you have in store for it.
What an absolute pleasure to have you back again ! As always very competent and an absolute wacky sense of humour absolute legend !
Your pacing and video style is incredible! The edit at 8:47 had me truly wondering how you pulled the effect off, I definitely have my guesses, but the effect plays so well as the onus of the joke. Truly incredible finding the follow-up to this series a full 4 years later. I hope you continue finding projects like this that lend themselves to pouring yourself into them as this one has. :)
I was so shocked at first it looked so real and good
That was too grotesque. 😅
Ive been serching for this comment bro😂
Im at 8:50😂😂
Free Palestine!
No one asked@@_-Ali-_
Loving the comedic interludes! Cannot wait to see the next installment and I will creep into back catalog this weekend! Fun :)
I don't comment much on RUclips channels. But, this have to be one of the best informational automotive stories I've seen in a while. I own a Subaru Impreza WRX STI imported from Okinawa and I can not wait to work on my car the way you did yours.
youtube is really learning that I love seeing cars getting back on the road
I feel like it was yesterday when I watched the purchase of this.
You r amazing at this, made me laugh many times, you actually stand out a lot in this industry, way above most. Hope you will have this car rebuild, cant wait!
I'm amazed by your amount of patience when problem-solving on the car. Relly good video!
I always await a new video from you with great excitement! Thanks, Ronnie, for being an honest and very cool car restorer!
I had lost track of your channel for a year or so and I'm so happy that I actually had saved some music you linked in a previous video to your soundcloud as I loved it, thank you Ronald for your awesome videowork. Cheers
This is the high quality car repair videos the streets have been waiting for
Just finished the full series on the Fiero refresh. Looking for more. Subscribed. Thank you!
Your editing style, humor and comfortability on camera is inspiring. Keep up the fantastic work Ronnie
Just started building one of these over on my channel as well! I absolutely love them, enjoy the car!!
I love how you placed little surprises in your story telling . 👏😂
New sub! Man, this brought back memories. Back in high school ('91), my dad rolls home with a '74 280z on a trailer he got from a buddy at work for $200, Brown, blown head gasket, rust all over, trashed interior and bad U-joints all around. Took us 6 months to completely transform her into a ridiculously fun car, bright red with 300ZX rims. Thanks for bringing back some great memories!
Stumbled across your video & was more than pleasantly surprised. your mechanical skills are good, your project choice was good, but your video editing SKILLZ put this video above 99% of your competition. Great job! i loved it.
really stoked for this series, you really capture what its like to bring these old cars back to life. this project is making me miss my 84' rx7 and my 81' 280zx a whole lot lol, maybe its time for another one!
THANKYOU!!!! Its been to long brotha we needs get these videos a little closer together i know life happens and you got responsibilities but cmon man cant leave us fans hangin like this lol
I have a 77. Swapped it to side drafts now im swapping it to a 4 bbp. Have a 2 bbl on a ZX. They're cool cars for sure.
I love seeing how far you've come, your content just keeps getting better and better! I will happily buy a shirt if it means supporting someone with as much passion as you.
Man! I praise you! What a major inspiration you are to me.
I love the build and resto! I actually thought it was a damaged clutch when you said no power. But when the spark plug replace was done, that run was unexpected and I fckin love it!
Looking forward for more builds and major restoration of this car. I am excited! More powahhh!
God damn it, I love these videos Ronnie. The frustration is palpable. The fixes you come up with are ingenious. The ramshackle 3D printed bench grinder is terrifying. This truly has it all!
As we say in germany: Das Ding kriegt (noch) kein TÜV.
Great car. Great video
Awesome video!! I had a 78 back in 89-90 that ran good, albeit with a clunky transmission, but the sub frame was absolute junk. My misfortune (aside from my general ignorance - I was in love with the idea of owning it and that made me pretty blind) was bringing it (unbeknownst to me) to a friend of the seller for a once over before buying, then back for inspection. They passed it.
The next year when I tried to get it inspected again, they failed it in a second for frame rot and the fact that the wheel wells had rotted through to the frame, and would send water GUSHING into the passenger cabin if I drove through a puddle of any significance. Also the passenger side floor was essentially non existent. THANKS ROAD SALT! (North East here)
I had to give it up after just one year of ownership. Big sad.
I wish you all the luck you need to complete the reno on this beautiful car. I've missed mine for over thirty years.
Love it! The 280Z was the car of my dreams as a kid and it's awesome seeing you bring this beast back to life! Can't wait to see the rest of the restoration.
The way this video was put together and edited is absolutely amazing. Props to you
100% worth every second of watching.
I hope it was worth your time repairing it !!
Not sure how or why I was recommended this video but I’m here. I must say that your editing style is absolutely amazing. You’re extremely funny as well. Take my subscribe and keep up the great work!
Love the content, and the editing. Hope to see more of this car as a restoration project. Keep up the great work!
Your videos are always worth the wait. Happy to see you were able to get it to the point that it passed and is running :D
i don’t comment on youtube videos often, but that final launch filled me with an indescribable joy that i am unable to put into words. i hope i can give this ability to my ‘73 corolla in the near future.