I aquired a 280zx turbo that was sitting for a few years. I got it running by cleaning the plugs and putting some new fuel in it. the compression is good in all six. after getting the old fuel out and the new fuel in it started running like a raped ape. now it idles well and drives ok until I try to accelerate (wot). It seems to not get over 3000 rpm and backfires out of the intake. it doesn't look like the timing is adjustable. any ideas?

 

The backfiring could be a worn timing chain, sticking valve/s, bad egr valve, ignition problem... I'd start by checking the cap and rotor and plug wires. Ignition problems are usually the number one cause of a car not wanting to rev. And you're right, timing is controlled by the ECU on turbo models (82 and 83 anyways, I don't know about 81). Since its idleing fine I'm going to say it's probably not a vacuum leak, but it's still possible. But I'd definitely give the ignition a thorough look through and make sure the plugs are gapped right too. Good luck.

 

The ECU does control timing retard, but you can still adjust the timing degree by loosening the distributor bolts at the timing cover. You will need a timing gun & disconnect the Throttle Position Sensor. Timing should be set @ 20 degrees at idle. If it continues to backfire, you should hook up an air/fuel ratio gauge to see if it's running the right mixture.

 

thanks guys. I was also wondering about a repair manaul. any ideas which is the best of the aftermarket manuals?

 

If you want the best aftermarket get a Haynes workshop manual. Not the repair manual, the workshop manual has more of what the factory manual has. And if you want the best get a Factory Service Manual, but they are more money. I love mine though, it's all up to you!

 

Not to sound like I'm instigating anything illegal here, but just out of curiousity while we're on the subject. Has anyone tried making a "backup" copy of their FSM on CD? Just curious. And WildmaN, are those workshop manuals vehicle specific? And how much do they run?

 

They work for certain years, I have it on cd rom for my '82. I am pretty sure it covers the n/a plus the Turbo models. The cd rom runs $75, and you use adobe acrobat, and can print out pages as you go. It also has the vintage commercial from the 240z to the 300zx. I have done that on certain things, I am working on for it. Or you can go on e-bay and get a original one cheaper sometimes. I got manuals for both of my 280zx's. But since I got the cd rom, I keep them on my bookshelf. We had an older thread for the link to the fsm's. I'll see if I can find it.

 

The website is www.courtesyparts.com. Fsm for an '80 is $69.95, '81 $49.95, and an '82 $69.95. And they also include commercials. There is also a parts list cd rom from '79-'83 also. I believe it is about the same price. Hope this helps you out!

 

ignition problem...FOR SURE.....
TRY CHANGING THE IM CONTROL MOD........
I THINK TURBO MODLES HAVE THEM TO ?????????????????

 

None of them. They all have problems.

You should get one of each. Chilton's, Haynes and the Factory Service Manual. This will increase the probability of getting the right information.