GTH

Hey guys,

I'm looking to replace my clutch and flywheel, anyone have an experience with the OE Autozone stuff? 160k miles, 2.8 NA, as far as I know the clutch has never been done, starting to slip on the top when in 4th and 5th and when passing.

Looking for suggestions. thanks!

zxguy1986

Welcome to ZDriver! Get a freebie factory service manual at http://www.xenons130.com/reference.html along with other cool docs. The original Nissan fiche is there so you may be able to locate original part numbers.

In general, aftermarket clutches and clutch parts are pretty good. Places like AutoZone and other chain parts stores are good with refunds if the part doesn't fit or is wrong and hasn't been damaged or installed and used. There is real competition for your business at the chain store level (unlike at Nissan OEM/dealers) so prices are a lot lower.

When you alter or replace your clutch, the feel can be very different from what you are used to. I would try to be clear with the salesperson about what kind of clutch feel you want (somewhere between silky soft Honda Civic and Humongous Diesel Truck, if you know what I mean. If the salesperson doesn't have a clue, ask if the store has somebody on staff with more experience with clutches and understands what you are looking for. There's usually a guy who has replaced half a dozen clutches or more and understands what you are saying. Be a little flexible because it will feel different anyway. And shop around before you buy. Variety of choices out there. Check the store's return policy and keep your receipt.

Report back with what you get and how it works. We like the input/feedback. Lots of S130 Z guys here and some may have specific clutch/fly wheel recommendations for you.

GTH

thanks ZXGuy

So my alternator went out on me either yesterday or sometime last week and the battery held till lunch time yesterday, either way, battery is not charging.

So I need a new alt before the clutch/flywheel job. doh!

ken99

ZXGuy1986 thinks you are newbie, but I see you have 100+ posts. I assume you know what you need.

I've had mixed success with aftermarket parts from Autozone (for that matter Orielly, Carquest, etc) from what I call "noname" suppliers. Autozone does stand behind their Duralast line, so you can get a replacement or return an item if it doesn't work out. I do not know if Duralast clutches are offered.

Exedy was the OEM supplier for Datsun/Nissan clutches. Amazon list several Exedy OEM grade clutch kits between $110 and $135 depending on the application. Amazon also carries AMS Automotive replacement flywheels (sold as AMS or Rhino Pac brand). For a simple, ductile iron OEM flywheel, the AMS products work just fine. I would certainly shop around for the best price once you know which clutch kit you need. Go to EXEDY OEM Clutches and Flywheels.

zxguy1986

Welcome back to ZDriver! Great that you're not a newbie!

I have a suggestion. Check all your wiring from battery to alternator, cables, terminals, etc., etc. If you are sure they are all solid, give your battery enough charge to get you to a battery seller. (Auto Zone is one...) They will test your battery/alternator system for free and may even give you a printout of your alternator output and basic battery performance.

For Z31s, you need 14+ volts from the alt or the electronics get weird everywhere. Don't know what your Z needs but the figures from the test will tell you something. If it turns out you don't really need a new alt, or even a new battery - you save some bucks.

GTH

Battery was tested as bad, then we jumped it and saw it was not getting any charge, indicitive of the Alternator, (man its a bitch to get that thing out)

So i replaced it with a new one from Napa, 80 bucks (22 back when return the core) not bad, up and running again.

Now for the clutch, tackle that this weekend I think. I'll read reviews on cheapo parts before buying one, and going new for sure, no ebay like new or anything there.

SharafB

GTH, Did you get a chance to replace the clutch ?

GTH

So, prolly just gonna go with the NAPA OE stuff

Clutch
http://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/Ca...009_0317158207

Didnt realize there were so many different sizes for this thing.

82 280zx
2.8 NA, 2 seater 5 speed manual.

Anyone know how I find out which size clutch I have, or do I have to just open it up and measure it?

GTH

Looks like I have the 225mm clutch disk in my car. its the GL, which does not change the size, only the 2+2 and turbo have the 240mm.

It looks like I can go with the bigger one if I choose. kinda want to go lighter for more crisper response tho.

zxguy1986

You might want to check out http://www.exedyusa.com/ and locate the potential clutches there. There will be a bunch of 'em at Exedy. Also compare prices. If they have a help line you could call them and maybe get better advice on the best clutch kit for you. But I think your NAPA dealer probably has a better return policy at the local level - and you would save shipping costs by going local.

Of course, getting your 280ZX up on a lift so you can take the right measurements beats all the guesswork about what will fit and what won't.

GTH

Ok, found this.

A lot being said about Excedy, seems to be that they are a decent affordable OE replacement.

Exedy Clutch Pro Kit HD Flywheel Fits 1981 1983 Nissan 280ZX Turbo 2 8L | eBay

No idea who PAZ is and if the flywheel is any good. says its 24lbs, which seems about mid range for OE flywheels.

Anyone have any experience with this manufacturer?

zxguy1986

I put the Exedy-recommended clutch on my Honda last year. Perfect fit, OEM performance. I had to replace the previous clutch which was all wrong for the car judging from the foot-feel and the throw.

There is an Exedy on my '86na I think, maybe 25K old. No problems, OEM feel. But I'm not a racer and never beat up on my clutches. If you're a banger, shop with some care. No experience with PAZ - but their name means 'peace.' Maybe that means you won't have to worry if you buy one...