I've been looking at an '81 turbo for some time. I don't know what trouble signs are specific to the turbo, or the zx line for that matter. I know to look for rust. It starts and runs fine. Gauges seem to read fine. Haven't drove it yet. What are paticular things to the turbo, or zx line that i should look at/for?

 

high mileage on the original turbo

 

140,00 - 180,000. I don't remember if it was a 4 or 8....lol Original turbo.

 

That's a really vague answer. Just because a turbo has a lot of miles on it, doesn't mean it's bad.

And we have a thread sticky dedicated to "WHAT TO LOOK FOR" when buying a 280zx: https://www.zdriver.com/forums/240z-280zxt-s30-s130-tech-tips-275/280zx-common-problems-checklist-purchase-inspection-16386/

 

it is a vague answer on purpose. that was the only thought i had to say. i didnt know anything more specific, so i didnt say anything that i wasnt sure about. i like to give whatever advise i can from my experiences, because that is what i would like for people to do for me

 

thanks you guys

 

280zx turbos have a habit of shearing the shaft by the exhaust bucket wheel after 100K. also 81 only came with an auto if stock. I'd figure on a turbo rebuild or swap in a Z31 turbo. The timing setup is different on the 81 there is a mechanical pickup by the crank pulley. Some folks have had problem there. I was much happier with mine after I put in a 5 speed. Otherwise if the spare tire well isn't rotted out you should be good. definitely check other rust areas posted.

 

What "shaft" are you talking about?

I've never heard of an "exhaust bucket wheel"...

Can you describe this in a little more detail?