iwithnell

Hey guys, just got my first z. It's a 1988 non-turbo 5-speed. And I noticed that the vacuum tubes are pretty much shot. I was wondering what you'd all recommend for what kind I should get, and then where the best place to order them would be. I've lurked around but I'd like some feedback from the pros here before i actually spend any money.

zxguy1986

Welcome! Check out Vacuum Lines for starters.

Most general auto parts chain stores (Auto Zone, NAPA, etc.) carry rubber and silicone tubes. It's a good idea to get the right inside diameter though because it affects line pressure.

There may be places still assembling tubes by 'set' for each Z model - but it's just as easy to buy the bulk stuff and replace one line at a time with the same diam., one end at a time - to make sure you don't cross lines up. If you mess up, there are diagrams (hard to put together sometimes) in your service manual - which you got at XenonZ31 Reference

Go for it!

Forgot to say there are lines in and under your dash. Pain in the butt to get to but are critical to your Heat/AC/air systems working right. Sorry about that! But may as well change them too while you are at it... The vacuum lines through the fire wall are important.

iwithnell

Thank you for the info. Will there be any major differences between the turbo/non-turbo? I've still got alot to learn.

zxguy1986

I've done my n/a but haven't done all of my turbo. Since you'll be buying new tube in bulk (I assume) you will have enough left over to cover any discrepancies between the models. You won't need to rely on diagrams at all if you just change out one hose at a time, first one end, then the other end.

For the lines that tunnel behind the wall in the engine compartment (passenger side), replace them first working outside the wall, label each end, and then work them through the tunnel. To do that, I tied them to an original hose (already disconnected) and pulled them through the same tunnel.

rogerz

they are mostly all the same size but for the one going to the cruise control. get 30 feet you will use around 25 foot for sure but the stuff is cheap. thick wall silicone looks neat but doesn't always fit where it needs to connect. Most auto parts places have it in bulk. NAPA usually best selection. take a piece of what you are replacing with you for comparison.

It is usually referred to as vacuum hose (not tube)

PredatorZ

I know Rogerz was biting his tounge, but vacuum tubes are these old school electronic parts. Some modern amps and other goodies still use these old style parts.

rogerz

not only that I have actually seen those things in working electronic devices