26th-Z

Perhaps it's time to discuss what version of the S30 came to North American shores and why. Sooo many comments have been made about what was part of the design and development. I read a comment about wishing for a sporty suspension. In the mid / late sixties, coil-over front and IRS rear was cutting edge for the most expensive sports cars, unheard of in the lower priced market. The suspension is a key point in the success of the S30. The L24 engine delivered plenty of sufficient torque for a four-speed gearing. For the market that the 240Z would compete in, a four-speed was top of the line. Most five-speeds of the time were overdrive units meant for high speed cruising that the lower gears could not provide (because of the torque of the engine and weight of the car). The L24 and four-speed combination provided competitive acceleration and 120 mph top speed - not bad for $3,500. The rust and metal issues we complain about were common to most every car of the period. It was the way steel was made at the time. But the unique unbody construction was not so common. What became of the chassis performance was top of the line for the price range and weight. The version of the S30 that came to North America did not have many of the options and upgrades that we see available in Japanese and other foreign markets for what seem to be two obvious reasons. One, Nissan was unsure of how well the Z-car would sell in America. The corporate dispute over this issue is well documented. Secondly, the price target for the American market was set low. Probably as "insurance" for high sales figures. This was demonstrated almost immediately by the number of manditory dealer options sold for an elevated price. I think the 'stripped down' configuration of the HLS30 was initially a mis-guessed marketing / sales compromise. Even though the model was modestly configured, it was more than adequate to compete in its sales class, insuring high sales volume and profit. Datsun in America didn't have a big options marketing strategy at the time. I recall that customer satisfaction was high for the configuration of Datsun cars sold in America. They seemed to come with everything one needed for the economical price. Datsuns also had a reputation for endurance at the time. Even though I understand the complaints about the electrics, there are 40 year old spark plug wires still in service. Compared to the sports cars that the 240Z competed with, the electrics were more than satisfactory. Nissan products do not have the "prince of darkness" reputation enjoyed by other manufacturers. Frankly, I think it is strong testiment to the initial design and engineering that so many HLS30s still exist and continue to provide excellent service.

Opinion, of course, but if a car has been repainted, in the strictest sense originality is no longer part of the conversation. Arne's mention of the Gold Medallion leads me to another thought. (And I'm assuming you are talking about the ZCCA Gold Medallion) You shouldn't get dinked for a re-paint unless it is a bad quality paint job. There are too many precedents.

PPG provided the painting technology for the Vintage Z program, Rick. I suspect your best bet is with them. I like Tower Paint as a supplier / helpful resource myself. http://www.apstowerpaint.com/index.php Chris

Fred and Betty with Johnnie at the Cleveland ZCCA convention. I'll miss Fred. All my best to Betty.

Before y'all get into a scrap about the plating color of hose clamps...they were both...depending on year and design type. Early hose clamps, like on Her Majesty the 26th are silver zinc.

Arne, I wish you the best with your pursuits. Kinda sad to see you go. Your contributions to the site, offering calm wisdom and the ability to stand back and look at the big picture, will be missed. Your technical experience has been valuable advice to our group and your willingness to contribute goes "beyond the fence". Please stay in touch with your new-found projects and experiences. Chris

Very Interesting! There's a Scarab down here in the Tampa area.

Search function - very good thread on the subject http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showthread.php?6597-compe-steering-wheel&highlight=competition+steering+wheel I bought this Momo wheel many years ago

Yes, the early cars had unique oil pans. And the "repair" you refer to is probably original. The early oil pans had a braised / welded reinforcing plate on the side of them. See my pictures. If yours looks like this, it is original. And they were black - not blue.

I have a reprint of the 1972 owner's manual from the Vintage Z program (1997). Brand new $35 Send me a PM.

That's a good deal. I have one of those (earlier version) and it is great. I think I paid $200 or so for mine.

Is the pressing profile of the panel in the advertisement correct?

DWG files added. I don't think we used to be able to upload dwg files. Hope this works. Datsun 240Z.dwg Nissan_350Z.dwg

Sorry I'm going to miss the event - have fun JTMader!

Couple of comments.... I have been told by several people actively involved in the Tea Party movement that the Tea Party is NOT a political party. Suggest you take the advice of your third grade teacher and "look it up". Perhaps the political left are trying to force us into socialism, (as if that horse hasn't alreadly left the barn) but it could be equally said that the political right are trying to force fascism on us. Remember, Rush Limbaugh is an admitted drug abuser. Illegal drug abuser. Criticism of entitlement may be a lovely conversation for those whom have not the morals and ethics of taking care of the society from which they live, but I seriously question how American that belief is. I always thought that Americans took care of Americans. Perhaps the fasciscts have us convinced that we should focus on taking care of the rest of the world?

The early 240Z days

I prefer the NISMO graphic over the 240Z as I think the colors clash with the green Z. Just a personal thing perhaps. And a Ferrari graphic as a small gift for all your efforts.

Starting grid for the 24 hour race this weekend. Nissan powered cars qualified 1st and 3rd in LMP2 class. http://www.lola-group.com/newsstory.asp?NewsId=332 Interestingly, the fastest petrolium powered car qualified 8th. Wave of the future.

I don't recall the 2.4 L Porsche 911 racing in CP back in the day. But I DO know what you are talking about, Greg. Keep the faith!

German. The red one sure looks to be a Vintage Z but the silver one is confusing. It has no hatch or side vents!?!! It has been restored also. I don't think I would trust the accuracy. The blue French Zed is Sean Dezart's.

Are these the type of belts you have? Early - lift buckle? Or do you have the push-button buckle?

Sorry! Stupid me. :stupid: I don't have that type.

Quick search of the all knowing internet turned up this from www.getinlane.com: Here are some FAQs about what you can and can't modify on your car. BUMPER Q. I would like to take off my front bumper. Is this illegal and will I get fined? Also do I need to notify my insurance company? A: It is not illegal to remove the bumper but you must ensure that all surfaces are then smoothed down and there are no rough edges. You must also ensure that the lights and registration plate are properly positioned. Your insurance company needs to be informed as this is a modification.

I would imagine that your insurance company would not like you to be operating your car without a front bumper. I also imagine that Maryland has a law about the removal of bumpers. Suggest you check into the legality of your bumper removal and where your state requires the license tag to be placed.

Wouldn't you replace the entire U-joint? If you think the bearings are worn out, don't you think the inner and outer races are worn out too?