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Bring a TrailerVintage Restoration Program 1972 Datsun 240Z 4-SpeedBid for the chance to own a Vintage Restoration Program 1972 Datsun 240Z 4-Speed at auction with Bring a Trailer, the home of the best vintage and classic cars online. Lot #220,101.Has been posted elsewhere on this site but I suggest that someone that is more tech than I am hoover Pierre's Restoration Document for this thread.

Any update. I suspect a gas tank from S30 World might be in my future along with Vapor Lines from Resurrected Classics.

New owner of a 72, first post here, and am having the same problem. I'm surprised everyone's focusing on ignition and not vapor lock? I'd owned two other 240Z's in the past and ran a Mallory Unilite in both and they were spot on. I'd be surprised if that's the cause here but I've been wrong before. Knowing what the issue here might help me as well so very curious about the solution.

I pulled the computer out and took it apart. It looks really good, so I put it back together and started on the ignition module replacement. I followed this diagram that I got from the knowledge base and tried it out, but no joy. I didnt see anything about needing to run it through the ballast resistor, so I left it out of the new circuit. Im not sure which side is + on the coil so I put the new green wire where the old one was. I found another post that had a resistance measurement for the pickup coil. Looks like its suppose to be around 720ohms. Ill check that next time im out. Im sure im missing something, but im was too tired to really use my brain. The module is bolted to the throttle body temporarily. And I broke out my new plug wires as well. Anyone have any suggestions?

I've been very lucky on many fronts in my life. My luck started with being born in this country and continued through being born into my family. However, for this screed I'll stick to the Z world. I started getting paid, $125.00/week, to be a mechanic at a dealer in 1970, talk about luck. I very quickly realized that paying close attention/noticing things were important aspects to becoming successful at my craft. When I opened my now closed shop in 1980 a trickle of unmodified original owner Z cars started to flow through, talk about luck. It didn't take me long to understand the importance of documenting as many details as possible. The results of my appreciation are a large stack of photos of the many fine details of 240/260/280 construction. I also have many sloppy pages of notes describing the fine points of construction and differences between model years. My goodness, I even have several pages of notes describing, in detail, the fasteners used to secure a 240 timing chain cover for production date X. Every time a serious customer approached me for a restoration I would ask, in detail, exactly what he/she wanted the finished product to look like. Before they had a chance to answer I would describe what an original Z looked like from the factory and I'd often show them a few pictures from my collection. The answer was always not just no but HELL NO! They wanted pretty. What does pretty mean? Modern, often 2 stage, paint that has been wet sanded and buffed to near perfection. Powder coated suspension and all the other bits and pieces of modern restoration required to satisfy a customer. To see 2 of my last 3 Z car restorations visit my site and click on Customer Profiles. When a 240 left the factory there was orange peel in the paint in random places. Have to mention that this particular problem improved markedly in about 1975 or so. However, there was often a serious problem with the clear coat discoloring when 2 stage paint was used starting about the same time. The paint on the bottom was applied very unevenly and often contained dirt in random places. Most of the grommets that were glued in place had glue running down from the grommet. The suspension pieces were painted a sloppy and uneven satin black. There was overspray on some of the exterior engine components that were in proximity to the engine block. The list goes on from there. Please don't misunderstand me, I'm not criticizing Datsun, that was the way cars were often manufactured back in the Olden Days. I can all but guarantee that if a real factory-like restored Z showed up at a convention a trophy would not be forth coming. Now to address the hyperbole that has crept into the world of Z restoration. "Frame -off Restoration", "Rotisserie Restoration", "Factory Restoration", etc., etc., etc. There are some new ones now like "Magnificent" and so forth. The situation is often made worse with fancy photography and lighting. This is what happens when marketing geniuses get involved. Remember the Z Store Program? H@#$, now I'm often confused and don't understand what they're talking about. ALWAYS look at the car you're considering or send someone like me to have a look before making that offer. I understand that I've only lightly covered this subject but there you have it for better or worse.

@Yarb

Shame you had to get rid of the 240z but glad to see the 280zx getting some more attention. I just ordered some parts from the US and will try to fix my 280z over the coming winter. I will definitely come visit you this spring with my 280z!

You can also buy Datsun Z blank keys on Ebay.

All, Thanks for the info. Dropped the R200 in the car, your are correct, the driver side side axle is shorter than the passenger side. Installed the short axle in the CLSD, engaged flush and installed in the car. never run a clutch diff before. Are there better oils and weights to run in a CLSD? Spent the dollars on Red Line 75-90 w full syn for the open diff but not sure this is correct for the clutch unit? Any help would be welcome. Thanks again.

I plugged mine off but it doesn't get very cold down here. Less chances off leaking, losing coolant was my main reason. Lots of info in these threads... https://www.google.com/search?q=plugging+water+to+carbs+240z+classiczcars.com&sca_esv=77dc914585b7f4b2&rlz=1C1VDKB_enUS1121US1121&ei=1oETafjINaKHp84P-LudoAw&ved=0ahUKEwj4i8S_3uqQAxWiw8kDHfhdB8QQ4dUDCBM&oq=plugging+water+to+carbs+240z+classiczcars.com&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiLXBsdWdnaW5nIHdhdGVyIHRvIGNhcmJzIDI0MHogY2xhc3NpY3pjYXJzLmNvbTIFEAAY7wUyCBAAGKIEGIkFMgUQABjvBTIIEAAYgAQYogQyBRAAGO8FSJZBUOkFWKcfcAF4AJABAJgBlgGgAcYIqgEDMC45uAEMyAEA-AEBmAIKoALsCMICDhAAGIAEGLADGIYDGIoFwgILEAAYsAMYogQYiQXCAggQABiwAxjvBcICCxAAGIAEGLADGKIEwgIKECEYoAEYwwQYCsICCBAhGKABGMMEmAMAiAYBkAYIkgcDMS45oAfSHLIHAzAuObgH5wjCBwUwLjguMsgHFA&sclient=gws-wiz-serp

About rust free section from a series 1 . Not using this so up for sale. Hard to find a clean section like this . I’ll ship anywhere 200$ Email Sfinnerty1018@gmail.com

Thanks! Of course and now that I know I was able to find in shop manual.

Pete’s slow-to-go-fast car…

Well hell! @Tanker what year was that Honda electrical brake booster? Did you get a hold of the 3D print file? I’m intrigued but I can’t find the Facebook thread! 😫

@Terrapin Z - you have a PM! @kickstand80 - you have an email.

http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6317.jpg We love to see owners enjoying our Z Car Garage CV Axles in their vintage Nissans and Datsuns. This 1971 Datsun 510 is owned by Jay W and he replaced his old CV Axle kit with our ZCG CV Axles just over 3 years ago. Jay has been racking up the miles running numerous road rallyes in 2024 and 2025 including the Snowball Rally in April, DWA Classic in May, Motherlode 400 in June, Faultline 500, Tokyo Calling 4 in September, Socal TT in October. Here is his report from the Overcrest Rally. Featured in Nostalgic Hero http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SnapInsta.to_498660032_18501146884023768_6205027060332564518_n-1-e1761796577859.jpg Before we hear about Jay’s rally adventure let us congratulate him on being featured in the popular Japanese magazine Nostalgic Hero! See both of his 510s in the June 2025 Vol 229 issue: http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SnapInsta.to_498710765_18501146902023768_4217799646128381976_n.jpg http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SnapInsta.to_498157601_18501146923023768_2067501625224048033_n-e1761796595162.jpg 2024 Overcrest Rally Redux http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6139.jpg September 16, 2024, by Jay Whalen Hi Rob, just checking in as my ZCG CV Axles #403 just clocked 20000 miles in 2+ years. I didn’t capture too many driving videos on Overcrest, but my wife and I have a few from Mother Lode and Faultline this summer. Also, we now have ~22,500 miles on the ZCG axles. Don’t worry I’m cleaning them up, but here are some recent pictures: http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/image001-1.jpg The opportunity to enjoy a car you love with like-minded enthusiasts against stunning natural backdrops is what I appreciate most about rallies. The adventure, camaraderie and community stands out to me about Overcrest and was evident when we drove in the Oregon 23’ rally. At their film festival in Oregon they announced the spring Redux 24’ rally was in Utah and I knew I needed to share the adventure with my father and son in my 1971 Datsun 510. I had followed online the 21’ Overcrest Rally in Utah I was blown away by the stunning backdrop and the cinematic journey the rally created. Plus seeing and driving with rally friends, I didn’t know were attending and meeting new ones from all over the country is a large reason I’m drawn to Overcrest. http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6136.jpg The 510 is not just a mode of transportation for the rally; it’s a character in my family’s adventure story. There is a shared excitement of revving its underpowered engine, hearing the twin Mikuni carbs, and dancing the car on winding paved and dirt roads. There is also the collaborative effort required to navigate the rally route, endure hundreds of miles a day of hard driving and the collective pride in showcasing our classic amidst a field of diverse vehicles. http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6282.jpghttp://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/D137FBC7-1EF1-4E40-8149-0DE94EBCCCF0.jpg http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_5987.jpg Speaking of diverse vehicles, our client Tony K also attended in his 1972 Datsun 240Z: http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Snapinsta.app_470814633_18476034988012891_5134614265672041150_n_1080.jpg http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Snapinsta.app_470687482_18476034940012891_5140023495301743266_n_1080.jpg Driving alongside my father and son adds a generational resonance to the rally. It’s a multi-layered narrative where the car becomes a conduit for shared stories, passed down from my father to me and now shared with the next generation. It is something my family holds close and we’ll remember for a lifetime. The rally becomes a living testament to the enduring legacy of our family’s love for cars and the joy of driving. http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6641.jpghttp://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6931.jpg http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/R0001253.jpg Our rally journey took us 8 days and 2900 miles across the California Centra Valley, Sierra Nevada, Movaje Desert, Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau. We drove a large loop which allowed us to explore several National Parks and retrace my fathers HWY 50 drive when he moved to California in 1971. The 510 did extremely well, with no major issues. We had a flakey starter motor, wore out a pair of tires and went through a quart of oil. http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6581.jpghttp://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/R0001236.jpg http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6621.jpg In essence, the Overcrest Rally in Utah with my father and son was a celebration of heritage, a journey through time, and an opportunity to weave new memories into the fabric of our family’s motoring legacy. http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6482.jpg Enjoy this video of Jay’s 510 in action on a few of the rallies he attended in 2024, volume up!: We love Jay’s attention to detail and it shows in his rally prep! Check out the skid plate his CAD designed: http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG_7023.jpg http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_7545-1024x874.jpg http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/image_50427905-1024x680.jpg See more build details with photos of the 510 HERE. Follow his Datsun adventures on his Instagram. http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_7643-1024x793.jpghttp://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/image-11-1024x772.png http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_5837-1024x768.jpg Thank you Jay for your support and keep Enjoying the Ride! More photos in the gallery below: http://www.zcarblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/IMG_7101-1024x768.jpg View the full article

'Make damn sure your sparks are right before you start messing around with the fuel'. Butch Bohunk, Master Mechanic, Finzio's Sincair Service

After many nights thinking about it, the current Black Friday sale and optimizing my order for the most value for my money I finally decided to pull the trigger. Maybe it’s because of the size and weight of the total order but the calculation of the shipping was a bit weird. As the parts will need to be shipped to the Netherlands I knew the shipping would be expensive but my shipping came down to almost $600!! By combining some stuff I got the shipping to drop down to $280,- while still giving me the stuff I wanted and basically a free rear strut brace. Here is a list of all the stuff I got: - Front fender brace - Frame rails - Rear strut brace - Front control arms - Steering knuckles - Front crossmember - Upper steering rack clamps - Rear control arms While weighting my options Apex dropped there Retro Mod line of suspension which allows you to keep the stock R180 or R200 long nose differential, axles and spindles. I really wanted to get the new rear suspension and subframe but found it to be too expensive for me at this time. By dropping the rear subframe I got to order the front crossmember, control arms and steering knuckle and still be a lot cheaper off. Weirdly ordering all the front suspension bits separately was almost $300,- cheaper than buying the Retro Mod front suspension kit. Seeing as I don’t need the tie rods (and the steering rack, you need to buy that separately) I’m even cheaper off. I already contacted my body shop about it and I think we will have the car back on the road by the end of winter. They will also put the car on a frame machine and measure the car to see if the chassis is twisted. And yes Zed Head I heard you about the bushings but besides that there might be more going on. Along with the new control arms all bushings will be replaced before going to the body shop.

Thanks again! I reached out to zKars, I’ll see what he has to say. Also, I wonder how much I could mill off the E31 cylinder head to help get the compression ratio back up before I ran into chain tensioner issues?

Hi all! Currently restoring the rear hatch in all its glory, and dug through this thread. Does anyone know if the outer gasket/foam seal on the interior hatch panel (the one with the rubber flaps for rain, etc) is the same soft 8mm foam as is used on the vent shown here? Looking to replace the degraded foam, and trying to figure out the correct material. Cheers! IMG_6962.HEIC IMG_6965.HEIC IMG_6971.HEIC IMG_6976.HEIC

Do they have good grounds? Have you tried to bench test them?

I think that I saw that or something similar on PBS or one of those channels. It was more focused on the main guy with the mustache. Rick Hall. Pretty fascinating show. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_Hall

I suppose it could also be bedliner.

Here in Panama we use 95 fuel. Mechanic advised to use an octane booster. The thing is how much in half full 16 gallon tank? The whole can or half and then fill up the rest of the tank with 95 fuel?