Nissan 300ZX Restoration is DONE! Build Breakdown, Future Swap Plans, & Angeles Crest Highway Drive
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- Опубликовано: 14 окт 2024
- My restoration and manual swap of my Nissan 300ZX Z32 is finally done! For now, that is. In this episode I do a full build break down, answer some common questions I got during the build, and go over future plans and ideas to make this car better. Twin turbo conversion, engine swaps? LS, 2JZ, RB swap? I want to get your guys' opinions and advice in the comments! Join me for a cruise in the twisty roads of the Angeles Crest Hwy, just north of Los Angeles, California.
I'll also give a hint or two at the end of the episode of what my next project car build is for the channel!
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As a big Z32 enthusiast and owner of 3, it's nice seeing simple restoration builds like this by people who respect the car rather than kids clapping them out for attention. As for future plans for the build, I would really just keep the original VG in it, it's the heart and soul of the Z. You could make solid power with an LS or RB (or 2J but I'd stick with a Nissan motor since I'm a purist) but even then I'd swap in a VG30DETT if I were to rip out my VG30DE. I think a VG30DETT swap or boosting the stock VG (Merlin Machining has a kit coming soon) would be the best thing for this car, more power while retaining the original character. Can't wait to see what you plan on doing next, and watching the next project (guessing a '64.5 Mustang).
Agreed 100%. I think these cars have reached the age where factory or near-factory look best, such a timeless design. It’s also actually very rare to see them driving around nowadays.
Keep it stock! Mr. K would want it that way!
Had mine for 19 years absolutely love my z
Go for the twin turbos turn it into the 300zx TT icon of the 90s
👀cleaned up nicely! 👍🏾😎
Thanks man, I'm stoked with the way it turned out. It was a head turned up at the Crest!
Thanks brother, the Mach 1 is alright but it’s all about that Challenger !!👌🏼you are in California as well? 🤜🏼🤛🏼
@@ClassicSmashTV Yes sir, I'm in the LA area!
beautiful shots 👍
Thanks man, I had fun playing with my drone. Haha.
I believe you going to restore a mustang 1964 I have a 1971 Mach 1 of my own by the way I also have a Nissan 93 and great work brother!!!! You done to it 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 can’t wait to see you next project man
Dude, you have awesome taste in cars. That's a heck of a pair you got there!
Awesome job on this build.
I'm betting next is mustang.
Thats my guess to 🤔
Awesome to see it done. As silly as this may sound, i think keep the VG. Something about these motors just make them really underrated. The fact they're so overbuilt maybe. Every damn JDM these days are swapped for an LS or RB or whatever. VG30's, as hard as they can be to work on, are something special when running properly and not many choose to use them due to being hard to work on, but if you can tackle that you'd definitely stand out over alot of other people out there. Some of these motors can push over 800hp when done right.
The VG30 is honestly the heart and soul of the 300zx, and was what made the Z unique in its own ways. Putting a Skyline powertrain or whatever in it would just turn it into another car within a Z shell imo. Just me?
They're definitely solid motors, and from what I've seen so far pretty bullet proof. Not a lot of 6-cylinders that can handle the power these supposedly do. Kind of on the fence about swaps, it's hard to resist taking all that weight off the front wheels while doubling the horsepower but I do see what you mean about retaining a car's personality. I think it's my muscle car past that makes me want to throw a V8 in anything with rear wheel drive. Haha.
That cameo towards the end 🤣
I had to include the Frankentruck!
@@noboltsleftbehind 🤣
Make it an OEM Twin Turbo Bud! Love your channel best on You Tube keep it coming! I had My 1991 2+0 JDM Twin Turbo Slck Top For 25 Years now Love it so much!! I had it fully restored Resprayed it in its OEM AH3 Metallic Pearl Red! Fully Restored everything under Hood! onto the suspension bushings now Later will do a Manual Swap!
Thanks man! And it sounds like an awesome Z32 you have there.
@@noboltsleftbehind Yes it was a True Feat over the last Decade Restoring it spent in the Neighborhood of 30K NZD includs Parts, Shipping, Import duties etc Parts from CZP and Z1!
Thanks Man yeah she Tryed to kill herself due to getting older but I could not let her go
Getting there Fella! These Cars Have the Best Driver experience in my Opinion Hard not to fall in Love with them as time go's on they will only increase in Value!
Thoroughly Enjoyed your Channel On the Z32 restoration looking forward Viewing further work on Your Z32! Keep em coming.
Funny that you just finished this one now as I just finished my MR2 as well. As to the future, leave it alone and enjoy it. As to your new project car its a first Gen Mustang.
That's awesome man, congrats on the MR2! Probably good advice, I'll definitely be putting some serious miles on it before messing with it again.
Watching these episodes are quite literally that. I enjoyed the back to back videos but when i started watching when you uploaded them, it only made it more fun to see "next week" episode. Cant wait to see what sin store!
A suggestion would to be the Turbo Conversion on the NA motor. There is written documentation and some very scarce videos here and there, but never a highquality series on doing so. I think myself and others who are looking to take on the NA-T conversion could use it!
Noted! If I end up going twin turbo route, it will definitely be on my NA motor and I’ll make sure to document the build thoroughly 👍
Barry, I've commented on a lot of comments on this video in regards to an LS swap. My brother and I did allot of 240sx SR swaps when we were kids. We also did a bunch VTEC swaps in civs. We always loved JDM power and even the sounds especially adding turbos to them. I am totally pro stock but if you have an NA motor and want to mod it you have to weigh the cost benefit. If you did an RB or 2JZ that would be sick. But I have to believe if you can get past the capital cost of swapping in an LS.......a turbo power adder would be super economical. NA LS will be a fun street car. Add a great cam shaft, intake manifold and a tune even better. Add a turbo and and a Holley and your hair's thrown back. All this and you get North American ingenuity backing you. It's all Bald Eagles after that. At least I think that's what Cleeter would say.😀
Hell yeah brother! Haha. I hear what you’re saying. It would actually be interesting to price out each swap option based on real new/user parts and see where each comes out. In fact, I’ll absolutely make this video before embarking on this project. I know here in So Cal, 2JZ donors are around, RB donors are non existent (obviously), and last time I checked good cheap LS swap cars can be a bit harder to come by than the internet makes them out to be. And those nifty off-the-shelf swap kits are, in my opinion, stupidly expensive for what they are and I feel I have a moral obligation to not take part in such blatant gougery on the car community. Haha. I guess that’s where fabrication comes in.
Killer shots! I'm guessing the new project car is a mustang
Congrats! Followed all the way through. It's great to see the Z back in its former glory. I bought mine last June and have been working on restoring it too. Long live Z32!
Thanks man! Congrats on your Z, I'm stoked to see these cars getting brought back to life.
Very good series Sir. CONGRATS on finishing up the Z project, and looking forward to the Barracuda project. Ha ha -Z32 Twin Turbo Owner
Thanks! Glad to be part of the Z family. Good guess and close, but I think one Mopar is enough for me haha.
Leave it alone!!!
Very nicely edited, hope you get lot more audience!
Thanks man!
great vid! cant wait to see what car u got!
Please keep the VG30. As others have stated previously, the engine is more than capable with E85 and simple supporting modifications. Plus you’ll have the joy of the amazing amounts of torque and satisfaction these engines deliver when turbo’ed. i recently manual swapped my Z32 and definitely love it a lot more. Also: SPL makes some fantastic suspension parts.
Enjoyed this content a lot! Can't wait to see your next one.
Thanks man!
The engine bays were scary when they first were released compared to everything else that was on the market, I've had mine for over 12 years now and have learned soo much from owning this car! The VG30 is easily one of the most overlooked engines of the era.
My old setup was just a forged Rods and Piston setup and it handled well over 700whp for 3 years with minimal work until I only recently tore it down to make more power(I do have a vid up on that!)! Good stuff here!! I'm happy to see more people coming around to enjoying these cars!
Makes sense, probably got the reputation back in the 90s and seems like it kind of stuck. That sounds awesome dude, I’m always surprised at the power these VGs can handle!
This build was amazing, can't wait for the next aswell as the future of the z and challenger
Thanks! I have a big brake kit planned for the Challenger, then I'm gonna race these two at the track.
I'm guessing a 67 or 68 notchback Mustang. And normally I would vote for a Nissan motor in a Nissan car, but an LS swap makes way more sense to me in terms of fun per dollar.
Very nice project and content you shared with us. Thank you ! Really good to have Z's being rescued and brought back to the road where they belong.
Thanks, and 100% agreed! These cars are such great drivers, it was a blast to drive up in the twisties. Nothing like pre-driver-assists 90s sports cars
you did an excellent job on this car I have a 94 sliptop that I planing to 2jz swap
Thanks, that’s awesome dude. A 2JZ would be a monster in a Z32, good luck on your swap!
Nice video! I’d love to see a VG30DETT in that beauty, good luck!
Thanks!
Great job she is s beauty now!
I've driven many MANY cars but this one is my fav by far....and the clutch is really stiff, in a morning rush hour it's a workout 😅
I appreciate it! I have a whole new appreciation for it after taking up in the mountain twisty roads, the snappy clutch actually isn't so bad up there. But in traffic, 100% agreed the left leg workout is intense.
Congrats on the great series! Keep it stock for sure! Next project… it’s a stang! Can’t wait for it!
Thanks man!
Love the content man! As I always say, your content is out of this world for the amount of subs. Wish you the best and looking forward to that new build! And yea, a engine swap for the Z sounds like a good idea, seems a little tame ;)
I appreciate it! Hopefully once the new project is up and running it can take over daily driving duties from the Z and I can start on a swap 👍
VG30DETT with 1999 J-Spec Front End Swap and J-Spec Tail Lights.
was a blast to watch :)
glad to see how nice it turned out
Thank you sir!
Great job!!!! I have a ‘96 that I purchased new in ‘96. I’ve intentionally kept it stock so that would be my suggestion. Also, enjoy the Mustang (I think).
Wow, you owned it since it was new and kept it all original! Sounds like an awesome time capsule.
It has been lots of fun. Still runs really well and has the original paint (emerald green pearl). Enjoy!!!!
Following along with your transmission swap to do it to my 90 NA. Great videos keep it up!
Good luck on the swap man! Drop a comment on any of my videos if you have questions, I'm happy to help!
Congrats on this amazing project, and thank you for creating these videos! It looks really good, and it's gotta feel good to drive something that you restored from the scrap heap, basically. Edit: my guess, your next project = early Lotus Esprit)
Thanks! It was awesome to finally get to take it up in the mountains and looking back at the videos of the first day I bought it, I can't believe how far its come. And good guess! Man I wish a got a Lotus, my neighbor has one visit every so often and that thing is epic.
Nicely done! A long term project that was successfully completed! I have a 1990 2+2 with five speed. Try replacing the clutch master cylinder. Made a whole of difference in mine.
Thanks! Which clutch master cylinder would you recommend? I did put a new one in when I did the manual swap but maybe the brand I chose runs stuff. I used an Luk for both.
@@noboltsleftbehind I've tried to keep the 1990 as original as possible. I went with an OEM from Nissan. I didn't realize how bad the old pedal/cylinder was until it started making a clicking noise when depressed and released. On my previous 1991 300ZX I simply replaced the bushings and all was good. This time I had to replace the master cylinder. Not overly expensive. I also replaced the drive shaft with a one-piece, a world of difference to the vibration I was feeling from worn out center bushing and joints. This 1990 2+2 has just under 80,000 miles with it's third timing belt. I've had it since 2015, purchased from the original owner with the original bill of sales and the Nissan large format sales book.
ls swap please. LOVE THE CONTENT
Thanks!
This has been such an enjoyable series to watch. I'm still amazed at how fast and how much you learn. Great angle on the 300zx donuts, but it did hurt my soul a bit in that dirt/gravel. HA! TT's are great, but they never seem to be on the road toooo long. Please don't LS swap, us Z guys love to keep it original. My NA-Z is fine with all bolt-ons and a tune.
As for your next ride, the blacked image look like a mustang, but I'm hoping for another JDM. Greate work!
I appreciate it man. I'm curious, did you get a custom tune or an aftermarket ECU trade-in? I ask because the guy I bought the hatch from had a JWT tuned ECU I was considering, didn't know if it was worth it or not.
Great content! I think you should do an LS swap bare legal. That would be awesome.
LS seems to be a common vote. I think this is the best weight/power option for sure if I could get my hands on an aluminum block cheap enough.
Cool video to finish the project with ! New cars a mustang I think, late 60’s model I’m guessing.
Thanks! Felt good to do a little victory lap and man, this thing was right at home up in the twisties.
Great job! No receipts from previous owner?? --Change the interference engine timing belt!! ASAP! If you don't you'll be looking at an engine replacement is roughly $4000-$7000 for used.
Glad you went with the OEM wheels which the spokes are angled to cool the brakes!
These cars are Not to be mistreated!
Other things to add to your list b4 you can say you have it as an N\A Stock are:
T-top covers or storage bags
Nissan Z32 headlight aiming assembly unit
Original power antenna -- does yours work?
Toneau cover -- yours fixed?
Nissan T-top window shades
Original owners manual, spare tire, wrench, etc.
Titanium stock key
Power drivers seat?
I love the external drivers side door key hole night light!!
N-joy your N/A!
Thanks, probably some good advice on the timing belt. I do still have some of those accessories to pick up but man that stuff can be pricey. Like a good condition rear tonneau cover thing in good condition, yikes! Might try and repair mine. Haha.
@@noboltsleftbehind
Yes, repair is always cheaper. I have always put reliability maintenance way over entertainment in my '91 2+2. Timing belt won't last past 60k or 4-5 yrs! Don't try to extend it. One time to keep costs down I kept my mileage down to around 18k until realizing it had been close to 8 years!! I scheduled to get my timing belt changed the very next week! I forgot the "Or 4 years" in addition to the 60k miles that they last. Excessive heat here in Arizona is not your friend and will wear them out sooner. I will say this: every dollar you put into the Z, she will give you 10x that in Fun and enjoyment! Nissan out did themselves with the Z32. Get a second security system other than the stock alarm like a Club for additional protection.
N-joy!
This has been a great series to watch. But hands down yank that VG out and drop in an LS motor. It would be great to see you acquire kit products to do it from a place like LOJ. I believe with your expertise you could show many folks how to keep it economical but also show a step by step process of doing it. Let's be honest guys there is no replacement for displacement. Your subscribers will hit the roof if you mention 'LS Swap 300ZX' especially when they see your skills and methodical approach to the work.
I think if I can get my hands on an aluminum block LS for cheap enough 100% that would be the best power/weight setup for sure. Lighter and significantly smaller than the VG, plus that sweet V8 sound.
Yes man!!! I wish I could speak to the weight of an iron block in the Z32......but let's face it, most guys are going to have access to iron blocks. If you use the iron block I think you will speak to most of us out there looking to do the swap with the budgets we might have. Also, turbo charging the iron block is a strong set up if it's in the cards.
@@joshlodder8608 true, and I bet even an iron block would be a good bit lighter. I guess the Gen 5 Camaros aren't quite cheap enough yet to be cut up as donor cars haha.
That's the problem. You'll pay a serious premium for an aluminum block. But either way you do you. Your vids are awesome, your skill on the tools is great. No matter what guys are gonna watch what you choose to do. I believe you will capture a large audience with an LS swap your way.
Looks like Ford engine blue. Did you get a Mustang? Hard to tell from the silhouette, maybe a Cougar?
That's so weird that you're having the issue with the stock shifter and the clutch. both of mine are oem, and the shifter has new bushings. the clutch is quite easy to drive, a little heavier than a regular car but not bad, and any time someone drives my car they ask me if it has a short shifter. 1992 NA slicktop with 145k miles
The stiff clutch very well could be due to the aftermarket clutch and pressure plate. It was supposed to be “stock replacement” but you never know with that stuff. Next time I’ll probably get the OEM stuff.
Great build. Keep it as close to stock as possible. Otherwise, it is just another z32 hack job.
Thanks! And agreed, these cars are already beautiful (and rare!) in stock form, and I plan to keep it that way.
oh no not another mustange do another JDM car I loved these videos
Looks great, and the next car definitely couldn't be a mustang ha ha
Haha, you have a keen eye on you!
As an owner of a 300ZX tt for 15 years. Where do I start lol? But, an LS swap would probably be more economical at your point with this car. Knowing what I know after 15 years, that's what I would have done vs a tt swap.
Interesting, thanks for the feedback. Is there anything in particular about the twin turbo setup that would make you rather go LS? Reliability?
@@noboltsleftbehind I haven’t had any major problems with the my Z. But thinking ahead I priced out two new turbos. Then to think of a future overhaul on a 30 yr old engine. Vs new LS installed. Probably close to the same $.
This was filmed awesome, how does the 300zx feel manual compared to automatic?
Thanks! The manual swap absolutely transformed the car, the fun factor went up big time. Especially on twisty roads like these. Lot more direct connection to the car and engine, I remember the auto feeling pretty slow to shift. I’m sure my lightweight flywheel and one-piece driveshaft upgrades helped too.
@@noboltsleftbehind Thats awesome so good to hear. Currently doing a manual swap on my 300zx as well and went with a lightweight flywheel and aluminum driveshaft to reduce rotating mass like you did
2jz swap the car. The z32 is a great car for a 2jz. The motor fits well and you can make it fairly close to a bolt-on engine sawp these days.
Good to know. Seems like donor cars are plentiful nowadays too.
The next project is a 64-67 mustang coupe.
Heres a few optons that would be cool to see, if you really wanna get rid of the VG: SR20 or K24 for of a more light weight set up. Would be cool to see an s54 BMW engine but idk how that would work, or you could go Single turbo VG
Huh, didn’t know you could set up a VG as a single turbo, I’ll have to look into that!
SR and K24 is a waste of time. RB26 or a 2JZ would be expensive but would be awesome obviously. Single Turbo VG.....we will pretend you didn't say that. LS swap is the best.
Nice tee shirt
Twin turbo swap it!
I have owned 2 Z32s and there is no way I have been told you can not TT the non-turbo VG30DE. You need a VG30DETT engine
What about a Boss 302 / 347 < Kind of a Shelby 300 ZX.
That would be rad. I think the best sounding exhaust option so far! Love me a small block Ford V8.
Vk56 swap it
If Megan can do it you can too
Heck Ecotec swap
1uz
N54 or 55
So many if ur willing to do the work
I’ve done the Ls - not bad in my 2-0
My na 2+2 will get something
Maybe a j32-j35 swap
Minivans everywhere for cheap
Rb swap it!
If I can get my hands on one for cheap enough I think this might be my first choice, I'd love to keep it Nissan powered!
SR20DET swap?
That’s a good option, and I bet it’s the lightest option. Are those motors cheap nowadays? I actually did a non-turbo one years and years ago and from a JDM supplier it was like $500
No they are not cheap anymore. They have become rare. 15 years ago we could get them for 1300 CAD. I think they are 3 to 4 times the cost now. A Z32 would be under powered with an SR motor unless you add a big turbo. But then you mind as well go LS with a turbo. Plenty of power and of course....it would sound so awesome.
New car is mustang
TT swap all day long.
I have touched about every nut and bolt on my Z to include paint and interior. I still would not use the term Restoration for the work. IMO the term restoration is a American car guy term. Unless the car comes to the shell and you restored or replaced everything it’s not a restoration. You cleaned up the car as I did mine! Import guys call it a build…..
These cars are huge money pits. it's very hard to find a good condition TT with service papers. people want so much money for these cars yet they will require about another 10k worth of TLC.
Eh, this is pretty much the case for any classic sports car that's pushing 30 years old.