1976 280Z Restoration Project

wheee! · February 20, 2016

I bought the lower quarter repair panels that wrap around and close off the bumper shock holes...

gwri8 · February 20, 2016

15 minutes ago, Jeff G 78 said:

So, can a 280Z valence be swapped for a 240Z valence for a small bumper swap? Most people have to weld up the bumper shock holes when they do the swap.

I've wondered about this even though I currently have no desire for a rear bumper. I actually like the holes in a 280 rear valence but this was the only new valence available. As you can see in the pic, the bumper mount indents don't line up with the screw holes on my 77'. You can see part of a screw hole on the far right side. But I suppose there is a way to firmly mount the brackets to support a 240 style bumper if it does not weigh too much.

gwri8 · February 20, 2016

Back to Wheee!'s topic. I Don't know what price you got your tank for but I found this on Ebay. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Datsun-12-74-7-76-280z-Coupe-EFI-Fuel-Tank-BOILED-OUT-COATED-/141894648036?hash=item21099480e4:g:CcMAAOSwX~dWsj2n&vxp=mtr

wheee! · February 20, 2016

I paid wayyyyyy less but I will need to coat and seal it.

EuroDat · February 20, 2016

5 hours ago, Jeff G 78 said:

So, can a 280Z valence be swapped for a 240Z valence for a small bumper swap? Most people have to weld up the bumper shock holes when they do the swap.

Interesting. Apart from visual there are some structual differences behind the valance panel. Keeping in mind the frame was altered for the extra stress of the 5mph bumpers and support for the bumper shocks.

I have read one or two threads with people talking about it, but they never reported back doing it.

If you are dealing with rust issues then the 240Z valance could be a good option. If you have the early model like Mark then you also have more holes to fill not just the two bumper shock holes which good make the change more interesting. I just welded plates in the bumper shock holes.

One clear difference is the mounting point holes with M10 threads in the frame for the bumper brackets. The bumper mount holes are in the horizontal position on the 240Z and on the early 280Z both sides are diagonal and the later 280Z the left mount is diagonal and the right side in a wierd vertical position.