My Big Block 454 Powered Datsun 280z......
Hey guys, I thought I'd share my BBC Datsun Z car project with everyone.
Some of you already knew that this project has been in the works for sometime. But I wasn't in a big hurry either....
If everything goes to plan, I should have it moving under its own power by the 15th of next month.
I know some are wondering why a big block when you can built a stout SBC for less? Well, because I like to be different. I've seen a few BBC Z cars, but all but 1 or 2 used motor plates to mount the motor. Motor plates work, but I wanted to drive the car anywhere with shaking the fillings out of my teeth.
Though it is true that a BBC weighes more than a SBC, it isn't by too much. Plus the increased power (torque) will easily offset the weight gain. But its not like I put a V8 in the thing in the first place to go autocrossing either.
I am upgrading my cooling system with a new aluminum radiator from Summit, which I still need to get my brackets heli-arc'd onto the radiator tanks. No electric fan this time either, instead an engine driven flex-fan will be used.
For the time being I will continue to use the existing exhaust I had made for the SBC. I will also continue using the stock R200 rear diff and the stock fuel lines with the Holley 'Black' fuel pump I used with the SBC. This will be enough to get the car moving for the street, but not for racing.
The next phase in the project is to get my R230 installed. I will have to get another custom made driveshaft for the R230 installation too. Afterwhich a new fuel system including 1/2" fuel lines, and a Aeromotive electric fuel pump. Then I'll have a new dual 3" exhaust (w/X-pipe) bent up. I also need to buy new rims and tires, prob Weld's and BFG's
Hopefully I'll have a 10 or 12 point roll cage installed over the winter.
After these mods I'll be ready for some racing next season. We'll see I guess.
I have my hands full, to say the least.
So, I am anxious to hear what you guys think? Also, if you have any questions, please ask.
Thanks guys!!







Some of you already knew that this project has been in the works for sometime. But I wasn't in a big hurry either....
If everything goes to plan, I should have it moving under its own power by the 15th of next month.
I know some are wondering why a big block when you can built a stout SBC for less? Well, because I like to be different. I've seen a few BBC Z cars, but all but 1 or 2 used motor plates to mount the motor. Motor plates work, but I wanted to drive the car anywhere with shaking the fillings out of my teeth.
Though it is true that a BBC weighes more than a SBC, it isn't by too much. Plus the increased power (torque) will easily offset the weight gain. But its not like I put a V8 in the thing in the first place to go autocrossing either.
I am upgrading my cooling system with a new aluminum radiator from Summit, which I still need to get my brackets heli-arc'd onto the radiator tanks. No electric fan this time either, instead an engine driven flex-fan will be used.
For the time being I will continue to use the existing exhaust I had made for the SBC. I will also continue using the stock R200 rear diff and the stock fuel lines with the Holley 'Black' fuel pump I used with the SBC. This will be enough to get the car moving for the street, but not for racing.
The next phase in the project is to get my R230 installed. I will have to get another custom made driveshaft for the R230 installation too. Afterwhich a new fuel system including 1/2" fuel lines, and a Aeromotive electric fuel pump. Then I'll have a new dual 3" exhaust (w/X-pipe) bent up. I also need to buy new rims and tires, prob Weld's and BFG's
Hopefully I'll have a 10 or 12 point roll cage installed over the winter.
After these mods I'll be ready for some racing next season. We'll see I guess.
I have my hands full, to say the least.
So, I am anxious to hear what you guys think? Also, if you have any questions, please ask.
Thanks guys!!







Originally Posted by trey1966
And you plan on keeping traction how???
Traction? What's that?
Believe it or not, but the car can hook pretty well as it is.
I'll have to do some chassis adjustments, but I am fairly sure I'll be happy with the result.
Besides, I could of easily built a twin turbo SBC for the car. However, I like the look of a big fat RAT under the hood.



that is freakin cool, I'm envious