I just got this 1982 280zx after adding fresh gas and pressure washed/cleaned the engine now my car does not want to start, has anybody had this problem before? what should I start doing first? Before washing the engine car was running fine, please advise and thank you.

 

You need to dry the connector for the TPS, and dry out the distributor, these engines are not water proof, and the TPS (throttle position switch) will kill the motor if it is shorted out.

 

Agreed.
Here's a tip I learned the same way you are learning it: when you wash your engine, do it with the car running. It would be even better if you have someone who can sit in the car and keep the revs up around 2500-3000 while you are using higher pressure water nozzles.

 

Being the new kid on the block as far as these Z's go, but back when....I'd spray the top of the dist and coil and ends of the plug wires at the spark plugs with WD 40, before I washed the car's engine compartment. for that very reason, to keep from getting water soaked, where it shouldn't be soaked.
And to be sure, I'd be pretty careful about getting a lot of high pressure water around those items.


Old Codger

 

Just plastic bag the TPS,Distributor and the Alt!!!After that you can go crazy,but better when the engine is cold!