italiansallion

Hey everyone! Just bought my first Z a few days ago, a 1983 280zx. I was wondering what I should do now that I have it as far as maintenance goes. It runs fairly well, but I did notice today when starting it up in the rain that it stuttered a bit and I had to let it turn over a few extra times. The car will be daily driven, so I'm looking to make it as reliable as possible. It's a 2 seater 5 speed N/A. any suggestions on what to do would be appreciated.
Sal

BradMD_96

How many miles is on it? Not sure what to do about the sputtering but it would sound like water is getting somewhere it shouldn't be.
Besides miles anyway, time will age a lot of stuff. I picked up mine about 6 months ago and replaced tie rod ends and tension rod bushes to tighten up the front end - highly recommend.
Also some other bits like bigger wheels to replace the outdated small 14's, lower and stiffer springs for handling and also (as your's is an 83) remove the cat and free up the exhaust.

italiansallion

its up there at 200k so I’m sure it needs some stuff, but I bought it as a driving project. I was already planning on doing shocks, struts, bushings, and springs to tighten it up - any recommendations? Once it gets going, it’s strong 1st through 5th.

Cobalt60

It's always good to go through all the basic routine maintenance.

Change the engine oil, transmission oil, differential oil, air filters. Check the spark plugs. The spark plugs tell a lot about the engine. Bleed the brakes, check the tire pressure. Take a good look at the underside of the car while you have it on stands. Look for leaks, failed bushings, anything that doesn't look right. Wash it by hand to go over every inch of the car.

I learned to drive in a brand new 5 speed 280zx. They are beautiful cars. Always liked the stock look best. I get a little teary when I see what people do to them sometimes.