I am a (retired Automotive Tech 30 Yrs) and owner of a mostly stored and used only in summer 62 K mile 1981 of a 280ZX turbo, t-roof, 2+2 with all factory loaded options since 1983. I happen to be privy to someone named Joe who was one of Nissan's USA Nationwide Troubleshooters. If a Z could not be properly diagnosed he was the tech they flew around the country doing the brainiac work. I was informed buy him that the 280ZX had a problem where over time where the exhaust manifold would slide rewards causing the rear most stud to snap / shear off. Also note that this is the same locator bolt that Nissan anchored the hook to lift the engine into the car during manufacturing. They were asking that little stud approximately 1/4" in diameter to do a man sized job. Especially if the engine was dropped in with the turbo assembly attached. None the less mine has sheared off causing an exhaust manifold leak and a subsequent exhaust noise. Looking at where it is located and the amount of work involved I am wondering if anyone has managed to replace that broken stud without having to completely remove the intake and exhaust manifolds along with a lot of other parts too many to mention J I am really good at doing what your not supposed to be able to do and doing it well however it looks to me as though I have my work cut out for me. At 35 I would have whistled through the task at 68 the thought of the task has become daunting. I wish to thank anyone in advance for any ideas, thoughts or assistance they may lend me regarding this topic.
Thanks Ray
xfixer@juno.com