L28 and added BHP
 

I have a motor for a 1978 280 2+2. If I threw the L28 block in a 73 240 with an E88 head, what else would I need to do to compensate for the power? Is this L28 the same as the L28 in the zx's? Would a zx L28 be better? Also, how much extra horsepower can I give a 73 240 without having to make strength mods?

Re: L28 and added BHP
 

The 78 280Z block is the same up through 1980. They have dished pistons and 8.3:1 compression. (some sources day 8.5) The 1981-83 280ZX block (also L28) has flat-top pistons and 8.8:1 compression for about 10 more horsepower and some more torque. The 81-83 ZX block is preferrred. Your 240Z head is meant for flattop pistons anyway. You should go with it.

Your 240Z's transmission, driveline, rear end, and body can take the L28 with no problems. You don't really need to swap out to an R200 differential unless you get up to 200hp or more. Even then, an R180 should be fine.

http://www.zipcon.net/bleach/pages/zcar/zlogo.jpg

Re: L28 and added BHP
 

You may have to check valve clearences with a L28 block and E88 head to make sure it doesn't knock the side of the cylinder. That's just what I heard not sure myself. I think the best combo for an N/A L28 is to have flat top pistons found in the F54 block and a N42 head which brings compression to around 10:1.
But never the less a L28 in a 240z will make a difference and which engine head is a debated topic.
Personally I'd like to get my hands on a E31 head as I have a P90 one I'm gonna turbo.
But that's if I was gonna build a N/A worked motor.
Oh and Bleech is right the gearbox's and rear end is fairly tuff in the Z's.
I had a mate with a L28 turbo with stock gearbox and rear end thing held together but not sure how long it would have lasted. Should be no problems but for what you want as Datsun over engineered things.


Gavin,
Melbourne
Australia
73' Datsun 240z