Well, I'm getting ready to rebuild the engine on my spare '82 280ZX (non-turbo, manual tranny) . Eventually I'll use this rebuilt engine on my '81 280ZX (non-turbo, auto tranny).
I looked at the engine number, the one between pistons 1 and 2 and those numbers are the same on both engines. So, unless I'm missing something; I can use the '82 engine on my '81 ZX.

Here are my goals for this project.

1. Replace all parts for engine head.
2. Replace all parts for engine block.
2a. I will send the engine head and block to a machine shop.
3. Parts for 1 and 2 should give me a performance boost (no street racing stuff, hommie don't play that ).

Now, here's where I need your assistance.

Where can I purchase parts, at a reasonable price, that will allow me to achieve item 3 ? I'm giving up on buying parts locally...So. Florida blows when it comes to parts for a ZX.

Also, any suggestions would be great...but just remember that I'm a noobie (n00blar) when it comes to this part of car restoration, so don't get too techie on me.

 

82 and 81 non turbo engines are identical...so no worries there.

as far as parts go, from a performance standpoint motorsport auto, Black Dragon, and Summit are your best choices. (in that order based on likelyhood of finding the part you're looking for). Also, courtesy Nissans site has a Nissan Motorsports section that has racing parts if you want to go that route There are other smaller companies that carry a few performance parts for the ZX. Check out the sticky in the main 280zx forum for places to buy parts.

For stock replacement parts Nissan is a good source but can be pricey (but also one of your only option on some parts). Online rock auto is a good one. They are reliable and ship fast. And they're cheaper then the mainstream catalogs.

 

Yes as J said, no difference between the '81 & '82 N/A motors. I put the motor out of my '81 into my '82. And that is what I am currently running. As for performance parts for the ZX. Try googling it, and see what you can find. I will also see what I can find for you, if I have the time. It sounds like a good goal to start with. And good luck on your engine rebuild.

 

I already did most of the googling. Check out the sticky: https://www.zdriver.com/forums/240z-280zxt-s30-s130-tech-tips-275/where-buy-parts-your-280zx-18264/

 

thanks jfairlady I didn't know there were that many parts places online that had parts for these cars, but now I am in partopia.