doogle749

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I just purchased a basket case 1980 280zx auto, And it won't start...
The previous owner's daughter owner it in Fla. and He bought it from her so she could get a new car. At that time it ran, smoked a bit but he drove it from fla to Ohio. It then sat for 2 years. I think the daughters boyfreind got into it (dome lights under the car ,sterio taped in place ect..) I needed a project to help my 14 1/2 yr son learn about cars. So now it will not start. I know all of the plastic clips for the sensors injectors ect are bad but it should start.
I got the hayes book today adn verified an few things. so here are my questions... it has a 3 into 2 header with a o2 sensor but I am unable to locate a cable to plug it in, the book says 02 is for CA only is that true??? Of couse the ecu does'nt have a diag led so... I have to diag the old fashion way. I'm trying to purge the fuel system to get all the gunk out and I noticed the fuel pump only runs when i crank the car? I know my gmc van fuel pump is on in the run position Is this normal for the z.
I really would like to put this girl back on the road and hop up the hp with some head work , ect any help would be nice.

Thank You
Bob McFarland
Delaware Ohio

smartman3000

The fuel pump should be running all the time while in the ON position. If she cranks and won't start, try pumping all the old gas out of the thing. Datsuns are notorious for running like crap when they have bad gas. Take the fuel line off the pump and run it so it drains all the old gas in the tank. Then fill er up with premium. If she won't start then, pull the sending unit out of the tank and inspect the pickup strainer. It might be clogged, leading to bad fuel pressure.

CT-ZX

My '80 280zx do not have an O2 sensor, all original car.

If it got spark and gas, it should start.If not:

1.check compression.
2.faul plug.
3.timing is off.
4.vacuum leak.
5.air mas sensor not workie?

few things to check before jumping the gun.

duckyz

Vaccuum lines are another place to look. They get old and brittle with age and could be leaking a little. Make sure you have good oil in there too. It would help if you can start it and get the oil warmed up before you change it, but anything would be better for the block than two year old oil. Make sure you're getting a spark too! No spark = no worky.

doogle749

Ok thanks for the info. I got it running it took hot wiring the fuel pump( i'll search out the problem, can you believe it 3 count them 3 relays for the fuel pump...) and a new set of plugs started right up. Now the dash pot is hosed and most of the vac lines are bad. It surew blows a lot of oil smoke. so i'll pu;;the head and see... Thanks for again for the advice...

bob