jjdruffel

Hey guys, new member here.
I am in need of a new pinion shaft (the small shaft that goes through the spider gears) does anyone know where to look for something like this or where i can get an old used one? I feel like I've been to every site claiming to sell Z parts and can't find one anywhere. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

PredatorZ

Just for research purposes, what year car is it ? I am guessing R180 Diff ?

PredatorZ

Have you taken a look at the fsm, and do you have a picture of the part, the fsm has all the names, so finding what you want is a lot easier if you have an exact part name, and possibly part number. I can find this info, with some help. Is it possibly the pinion mate shaft ?

PredatorZ

Datsun 240Z 280z 280ZX 510 Diff Pinion Mate Shaft R200 | eBay

jjdruffel

It is a R180 and the car is a 72. I think you found the right part for the wrong transmission but now that i know that its called the pinion mate shaft it should be easier to find. I would upload pictures but i dont know how to from my phone. The shaft is about .59in diameter and just over 4in length with flat faces cut 180 degrees from each other on both ends (which i believe is to let oil in). And on one end it has a small hole drilled through where a smaller pin keeps it in place. Thank you for your help. Ill dtart looking using the part name you gave me.

jjdruffel

My mistake,

Right part for the wrong differential**

PredatorZ

Didn't take me too long to figure out once I started going over the drawings, only 2 pieces had pinion and shaft in the name, your description got me looking in the right direction. Hopefully someone has that part, might be worth some research to determine how different the 2 parts are and if maybe a little modification / machining will get you fixed up.

PredatorZ

This should be the part number for the 72 r180 part, here is a link to the diagram, and a link to someone who can get it, might be back ordered, but courtesy always comes through.

Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z Differential Gear, Pinion & Cover (R180)

Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z Differential Gear, Pinion & Cover (R180)


SHAFT-PINI :: Nissan Parts, NISMO and Nissan Accessories - Courtesyparts.com

there are a few part number variations that appear to be the same, updated part

38427-U3000

jjdruffel

I was thinking about that. The only issue is that i imagine that part is pretty hard and i dont have the capabilities to machine that hard of steel. Im sure a local fab shop could do it for a price. Wheres the best place to look up dimensiomns like that? Is there a partds manual that i should know about or do you think its just a search and pray deal?

PredatorZ

I would give the guys at courtesy Nissan a call, ask them if they have any additional info on the part. They appear to have the part, a lot of older parts are not referenced in the catalog to a specific application, just a part number. getting parts can be a crap shoot, if you did order the part from courtesy, I am sure if it was incorrect, you could return it. Also, try your local Nissan dealership, use the part number I provided and see if they can source the part. I put a post up on a zparts face book site, asking for more info and the part if anyone has it.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheZGang/

PredatorZ

There is the possibility that a machine shop might be able to repair the part, you might take it to a few local shops, see if they will give you a quote.

jjdruffel

Cant thank you enough predatorz! ordered the part, hoping its the right one. even if it's not, thank you for pointing me in the right direction. Might be looking at a full restoration sometime in the future, look forward to your advice when the time comes.

PredatorZ

Glad I could help, good luck with your car. Just to let you know, this hobby is addicting, I can almost guarantee you , you will most likely own several Z's, and very likely at the same time. Restore Them, don't crush them !

jjdruffel

Oh i already have a problem with 1/2 ton silverados. Figure adding another breed in cant hurt. Happy driving!

lumens

I have the whole assembly from a 72 you can have if I can find it.
I am pretty sure its still in the garage.

jjdruffel

Thank you buy I've found the part and it is on its way. This forum has the most helpful members of any site I've come across. Thanks again!