Datsun 280ZX IMSA GTU race car build...

bernjean · Post by **bernjean** » Sat Apr 28, 2012 10:08 pm

Okay I see, I also bought billet adjustable lower arms from the states, didn't need the bump steer spacers as I repositioned the steering rack when I converted the car to power steering. Used a Subaru steering rack, was one of the best things I ever did. Gave me much less lock to lock, direct feel. Good sport set up.

Grunzter · Post by **Grunzter** » Tue May 01, 2012 9:03 pm

...I have used a series 2 280zx rack&pinion power steer unit along with a steering reduction gearbox to make it very responsive, hopefully not to much.

QUESION: - BEST WHEEL STUDS to get?
Looks like i will need a wheel spacer on my front, probably 6mm (10mm absolutely maximum), as my gap between my spring and tyre is <5mm at the most.
[Ideally my front wheels should have been another 1/4~1/2" offset... too late now..., and I also need to get the actual tyres i intendon using to confirm...]

Was looking at ARP or NISMO brands...
I know ARP should be good, not sure if the Nismo studs are rebadged chinese made stuff...
Any opinions advice out there.
Thanks.

Ricky · Post by **Ricky** » Tue May 01, 2012 9:40 pm

You can get these from Davie Motors at Manukau, you may have to get longer ones and cut them down.

http://www.niceproducts.com.au/catalogu ... /wheel.php

ZMAD · Post by **ZMAD** » Wed May 02, 2012 10:07 am

Cheers for that link. Just found wheel nuts for project Smurf (a now ford blue Suzuki Alto-for teaching young drivers and shopping cart). Also needed door lock for Z.

ZILVER · Post by **ZILVER** » Wed May 02, 2012 11:08 am

ARP would win outright compared with Nismo. Nismo I believe are just stock strength just longer (made in Japan) whereas ARP are manufactured to have a much higher tensile rating.

Grunzter · Post by **Grunzter** » Wed May 02, 2012 6:43 pm

Thanks Ricky for the link, and others for your comments!

Grunzter · Post by **Grunzter** » Mon May 07, 2012 3:07 pm

Body is blasted, and now etch primed, ready for the panel work to start.

Front cowl plate has been eaten with bora, so will need to find a replacement!

at the painters...

Grunzter · Post by **Grunzter** » Mon May 14, 2012 6:54 pm

Cleaned and primed my steering rack, will top coat it this weekend weather permitting...
Also got new bushes from Ebay

New Brake Rotors now in the garage

Wallet suitably lighter...

Grunzter · Post by **Grunzter** » Wed May 16, 2012 8:24 am

New sills, new front cowl in progress, and other bits...
Car takes shape!

Grunzter · Post by **Grunzter** » Fri Jun 01, 2012 2:07 pm

Steering rack before and after...
(Still need to powder coat the cross member)

Grunzter · Post by **Grunzter** » Thu Jun 07, 2012 8:33 pm

The body takes shape...
- New sills & cowl in place,
- Roof in place,
- Front guards & head light bezzels on,
- Bonnet on,
- Passenger Door on (and it opens & closes!), drivers door in progress
- LH Rear quarter mostly on...

mike260z · Post by **mike260z** » Thu Jun 07, 2012 9:22 pm

Coming together nicely man - shes looking tough

BRONZEE · Post by **BRONZEE** » Fri Jun 08, 2012 6:27 am

Really is fantastic to see you steaming ahead with this project.

Grunzter · Post by **Grunzter** » Thu Jun 14, 2012 3:20 pm

Thanks for the motivation guys & gals, its always needed and welcome!

More plastic bits now on.
Next is the wing on the hatch...

Then its time to fix all the bits to prepare them for the paint... still a little while away...

FRONT AIR DAM:
Say good bye to those 5 little holes in the top of the air dam, also this part is going to be raised a little.
The light holes will be opened up a bit for brake ducting...
Other changes will be made as well, just not sure on the best method, basically after the front air dam to be about 25~50mm lower, and level with the ground...
Also the intermediate cross bar in the main air inlet may dissappear.

Any ideas, opinions wecome.

ZILVER · Post by **ZILVER** » Fri Jun 15, 2012 1:24 pm

Just like putting together a giant Tamiya kit aye

Love Photo Diary builds. Keep the updates coming!