Karl's 1972 Datsun 240z

[280zx_nz]

After seeing a member's 240z off Zclub NZ in the flesh I just had to have one, no more waiting! I came accross this 240z on Trademe a couple of months ago. Problem was I don't have the room for 2 projects, well 3 counting my partners so I had to let the 280zx go




Here she is, 1972 Datsun 240z, ex race car. Very rusty. L28, extremely lumpy, high compression ratio with triple 45mm DCOE carbs, was built by Wayne Murdoch. Has live plates and original ownership papers. Half cage, adjustable suspension. Going to try get in contact with Wayne Murdoch at some stage to find out a bit about the engine.










Going to sit like this for awhile because of study and part time work this year, but first things to be done is replace the ignition switch as it refuses to run once key is released and install a proper choke, hates running cold. Then will start pulling it down and make a decision if I will be re shelling or restoring it.

[Ivan]

Looks good Karl I can't wait to go for a cruse together

[classicdat]

Check the Balast resistor if you haven't already, that can cause them to die like that. Great cars good on you man.

[280zx_nz]

Thanks for that! turned out to be a ever so slight loose connection on ballast resistor, now it starts and idles a bit better.

[85_Z31]

Post some photo's of the suspension setup Karl

[280zx_nz]

Will do once some work has been done to the workshop, getting some illegal wiring fixed. Once its done I'll be putting it on axle stands.

Started doing some work on it, removed the bucket seat and put factory seat back in, so much better! Pulled the rocker cover off to give it a clean and inspect:







The passengers door handle wasn't working so stripped it down to find out the problem, it must have been rusted shut and a bit too much force was used which lead to a bit braking off that goes to door release arm. Very minimal rust:




Can someone shed some light onto the cam and springs etc? Springs definitely look aftermarket but no idea what brand etc. Can rev 10k+ no problem

[DJZ]

Looks like a regrind to me, pretty sure that's quite a small base circle. I'd be little bit worried about the lash pads coming out, it looks like those are stock retainers and quite thick lash pads.

[classicdat]

10K wow, what crank, Std ones don't enjoy repeated visits to 8.

[Bartman]

That yellowing under the rocker cover lends itself to an engine which has had some blowby. (Not uncommon on race motors either)

[280zx_nz]

Mm I should really pull the engine down and inspect it. According to last owner, it has a uprated oil pump that flows quite a bit more than stock and higher pressure, spits quite a bit of oil when remove the oil cap. Also has a interesting oil catch system made out of a old 2lt fanta bottle haha.