z31 to z32 conversion
 

Hello to everyone, I'm new to this site and I know enough to be able to work on a car but I still would consider myself a newb as some of you would agree after I ask my question.

A little background first, I have a 1988 300zx NA 2+0 automatic that's been sitting at my house for some time now. At first I didn't want it because it was automatic and I love manual. Then I thought this could be a great project car.

This truly is a project car, it runs but then overheats for some reason, don't know why, never bothered to check. The u joints are bad so I'm going to need to replace the driveshaft. And it has some rust but I can fix that.

I want to convert it to manual, and thought, would it be worth it to buy a wrecked z32 NA and swap out the entire suspension system ( control arms, diff, struts, etc.) Brakes and transmission. I think there should be a greater aftermarket support for a z32 instead of a z31 which is why I'm asking if the swap is worth it

Or should I go a different route. I'm no expert and just want to give my Z the attention it deserves.

Just if anyone is curious, I plan on doing a lot of canyon carving and eventually down the road in a few years, I want to swap out the engine to a vh45.

Welcome to ZDriver!

As with any project, anything is possible with enough time, money, and skill. You should be asking if it's realistic... which answer is NO.

Z31 and Z32 physical dimensions are very different. If you have thousands of dollars (and hours) to burn on nothing else, go for it. There have been several people who have done a VG30DETT swap into the Z31, but the suspension is completely different.

If you have to ask "Can I do this?", then most likely you don't have the experience to do so. :003:

I asked because I heard there was a kit to swap out the rear suspension similar to a s13/14 or z32 suspension. Making it wider about 4in, and having more options for wheels and suspension parts. I plan on doing the auto to manual conversion and thought the z32 transmission would be an upgrade along with the suspension