Project z31 Z432 N/A RB swap

[RVAE34]

Hello everyone. New member but long time project car builder. I started with Nissan having owned a few Maxima’s and pathfinders early on in my driving. The first real project was an S14 Silvia conversion I did back in 02-03 with a good friend of mine. Then I switched to BMW which has been my main focus for the last 10 years other than the 72 510 I also built.

For the last few years, I have been bitten by the Z31 bug. Which is quite odd considering that I used to despise them. My dad is a huge Z fanatic and owns 5 immaculate S30 240z’s and a non turbo Z32 300zx. I had always wanted to join the Z family with him but the S30’s are just too pricey and I never really got into the Z32 much. I started realistically searching for Z31’s about 2 years ago and got serious late last year.

My original goal was to build an L28 monster 3.2L. But I quickly realized I would have at least $15k in the engine I wanted to build. I started to think about RB’s instead and took a trip to see my friends at Japan Parts Service. They didn’t have any RBTT’s but they did happen to have an RB25de with magnificent looking equal length long tube headers. It was at that moment I had the vision for my final car.

Even without a car, I purchased the RB25de, RB26 valve/coil covers, a Z31 5 speed and an RB bell housing on the spot from Japan Parts Service. I then started to source out all the parts for the build.

Raw Brokerage has been my biggest source of parts thus far. I picked up a brand new Nissan RB26dett head, Tomei 272 10.25 cams, Tomei solid lifters, Tomei berrylium copper valve seal rings, Supertech +1 intake and exhaust valves, Supertech guides, Supertech 243lb dual valve springs with seats, seals and Ti retainers. I also got a set of used RB26 ITB’s which I am sending out to EFI hardware to get opened up from 45mm to 49mm. Ordered an RB Z31 oil pan from Enjuku racing.

My machinist currently has the head and all Tomei gaskets. He is going to clearance the head for the big cams, weld material in the combustion chamber to reshape and unshroud the valves as well as a port and polish. All on the flow bench. He will also port the intake plenum to match the enlarged throttle bodies. The RB25 block will be bored to 87mm and I will be using a Nitto forged stroker crank, light weight H beam rods and custom made high compression 11.2:1 pistons. With stand alone, the goal is 300 RWHP with 10k redline.

I had been daily searching for a car and was dead set on an 86 because I love the fenders of the 87-89 but hate the tail lights. About 10 months ago, I found my ideal car, an 86 auto standard spec with 56k miles. But the price was too high. The day they dropped the price by $2k, I jumped on it and had it shipped to me 2 days later. I have begun dismantling it and will strip it down to a bare shell with all glass out for a full re-spray to Nissan Safari gold 920. I will also be badging this car as a Z432 and purchased 3 NOS S30 fairlady Z emblems and was given an uber rare NOS Z432 emblem.

For the car itself, I bought 87-89 side skirts with brackets, 87-89 front bumper and hood, grey front windshield trim, new T tops with grey trim, new mirror seals and a new Shiro Special front spoiler. For the suspension etc, I purchased the mounts to allow me to install an S14 rear subframe into this car.

I will continue to update as I go and probably left some stuff out since I just joined but have been diligently working on acquiring parts for the last few months.

Lastly, if anyone wants an RB25de head, intake manifold and crank/rods/pistons cheap, let me know!

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[RVAE34]

I see it's fixed.

[RVAE34]

Does anyone know why I cannot view my original post in here? When I hover over the title, I see some of the text but when I click on the thread, it's empty. It was approved by a mod and I would assume might take a bit to show up but I saw it once in full and have never experienced anything like this in any of the other forums I am a member of. Thanks in advance.

[Phlip]

Does anyone know why I cannot view my original post in here? When I hover over the title, I see some of the text but when I click on the thread, it's empty. It was approved by a mod and I would assume might take a bit to show up but I saw it once in full and have never experienced anything like this in any of the other forums I am a member of. Thanks in advance.

Thread approval system is working like it should, but the post approval is being wonky. You didn't do anything wrong.

[afishysilvia]

We can see it now! man that car looks like it was locked away in a shed. Cant wait to see this! Sub'd!

[RVAE34]

Thanks!! I've never been more excited about a project. Even more so than my LSx 427 swapped e39 touring that I sold in 2016 and my current supercharged s62 e38.

[RVAE34]

I should also mention that I am on the hunt for an s14 rear subframe and it seems I am not yet able to post in classifieds.

[RB25GUY]

Might need higher comp pistons to hit that 300whp mark i believe sung kangs car had 12.5:1 ratio pistons and it barely made 320BHP. Good luck, power to you to end up going NA RB route! At 10k might want to look at a Dry sump and a higher pressure oil pump tomei, greddy, etc. or even a accusump system.....

[RVAE34]

I talked with Raw Brokerage about that. I wanted to go 12:1 but I want to run pump gas. Might do a dual tune with stand alone. Apparently Fugu Z is still running the 2.6 crank and rods with high comp pistons and is tuned for CA using Greddy e-manage. But we will see. They seem to think I will hit a higher hp goal than he did. I know it's a stretch and previous experience has taught me that you almost never reach your original hp goals. Will definitely go with a high pressure pump but unlikely to go dry sump. I don't plan to hit 10k often and certainly not through hard turns.

[tb13]

Dang dude, this is going to be sweet. Will be following for sure!

[Y0SH]

This build has a lot of potential! Can’t wait to see where this goes.

[lunchmeat]

Sub'd for 80s awesomeness.

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

[RVAE34]

Thanks, everyone!!

Clean underside.

I bought NOS T tops mostly because I want grey trim.

Was hoping the Z32 headlight might actually fit since the recess shape is the same but it's too big. Could probably make it work but it would likely look odd.

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[RVAE34]

I pulled one of the quarter windows. I talked with the guy doing paint/body and the plan is to ditch the trim by welding in more metal around the glass and using a stronger bonding agent to glue the glass back in. Which would look just like this rendering.

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[RVAE34]

Shiro, baby!

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[feito]

A z31 with an n/a rb swap that so far looks clean, ha? Interedesting... Go on.

[FABCHILD]

build looks rad

[supersayianjim]

my boner has risen!!

[NextTimeJr]

Daily drive a 86’ in the summer months, same colour, 5 speed and the dreaded digital dash. Props for doing a build on one of these. Subbed..


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[RVAE34]

Thanks! Painter said no problem on the quarter windows. I plan to have it ready for him in 2-3 months. The guy who did the render also tried it in white and Datsun 104 Cactus green. Even though I am still 99% set on safari gold. It's just that my wife isn't a big fan. Even though she has accepted it.. To her, it's still urine or baby shit yellow lol.


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[feito]

I just noticed, it shows no rear bumper on those drawings. What do you have planned for that?

[RVAE34]

I liked it so much better in the rendering without a bumper that I plan to go with it and have the rear pan cleaned up and the holes welded. Then maybe a custom diffuser. We will see though. Need to see what it looks like in person without it.

[RVAE34]

The little details that count. As much as I wanted to run a Tomei ornament plate, I just feel like the stock one will look better for my goal. More in line with the Z432 theme too.

I also went ahead and ordered a CF JDM style front spoiler yesterday as well since I really am torn on which I like better. Kind of silly to order both but I will see which one I like better in person and verify fitment then sell whichever I don't use. I got the last Shiro from JDM parts so didn't want to risk having that sold.

I was amazed to find that Nissan still carries the windshield trim holder piece that goes around the perimeter and new clips. This will make me feel much better about pulling the front windshield. Trying to determine if the rear has one but I don't think it does. I plan on getting the VIS carbon fiber rear hatch and hood. Curious to get some of yalls thoughts on their stuff. I had a CF hood on my S14 back in 03 and it was pretty nice but that was 15 years ago!

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[Smurf_240SX]

always liked z31's, this looks like its going to be an amazing build. Cant wait to see more.

[RVAE34]

Thanks!

Here are a few notable past builds.

My first one that I started in 2002. 95 S14. Bought a JDM clip. It was my first real build. Yes, I know the side skirts are on backwards at the end lol.

Then the Datsun 510 with Rebello L20, Troy Ermish coilovers, Nismo headers, 2000 roadster 5 speed, Panasports etc.

Next, BMW E34 with M52 engine swap, S52 head and Garret GT3076R turbo.

Then came the LSx 427 swapped BMW E39 touring with T56 Tremec Magnum, M5 diff with 4 clutch, 4 wheel Brembo GT BBK and Fortune Auto coilovers. This thing was a monster.

Sold that to build my current BMW which is a 40k mile 2001 BMW 740 M sport with a fresh built E39 M5 V8 and ESS supercharger, front BBK, M5 diff with 4 clutch and custom dyed interior. BC Forged HB04 wheels.

I also currently have a 95 Nissan D21 XE V6 that I did an 87 pathfinder front end, door handle and mirror conversion with Toyota Stealth Custom Series F5 wheels that I had to install longer Nismo studs and hub centric rings to fit and Toyo Open Country tires. Also added a roll bar.

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510

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E34

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E39

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Nissan

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[Smurf_240SX]

Man that little Datsun looks so good!!!:rawk::rawk::rawk::rawk:

[midnight zenki]

Thats crazy that you did that 7 Series, I remember reading about that and being in awe of the level of execution. This shit just got real:cool:

[lunchmeat]

That 510 is the tits.

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

[z31andrew]

Hey man love the build, let me know if you need any parts! I am a sales rep at MSA

theZstore.com

x202

[RVAE34]

Man that little Datsun looks so good!!!:rawk::rawk::rawk::rawk:

Thanks! I miss that car. Still have the chance to buy it back but feel it's best to keep moving forward.

Thats crazy that you did that 7 Series, I remember reading about that and being in awe of the level of execution. This shit just got real:cool:

Thank you! I actually farmed much of that build out to friends because I felt the family was sick of me being in the garage all the time. Kind of back to being in the garage often but at least my son is 5 and starting to really get into it.

That 510 is the tits.


Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

Thanks!


Hey man love the build, let me know if you need any parts! I am a sales rep at MSA

theZstore.com

x202

Now you tell me!! lol. I just bought the JDM CF front spoiler because I like it better than the Shiro.

[BryanS14]

Solid builds! :rawk:

[z31andrew]

Now you tell me!! lol. I just bought the JDM CF front spoiler because I like it better than the Shiro.

Lol sorry man! I just read through the read and love the build, love where you are going with it. If I had the chance to build a Z31 I would want it done the same way. And those renders!

But let me know when you need more parts, email me:
[email protected]

[RVAE34]

Lol sorry man! I just read through the read and love the build, love where you are going with it. If I had the chance to build a Z31 I would want it done the same way. And those renders!

But let me know when you need more parts, email me:
[email protected]

Will do, thanks! I find the site to be a little difficult to navigate/search because it doesn't seem to break the parts down by chassis. Thanks for the kind words on the build direction too!

[z31andrew]

Will do, thanks! I find the site to be a little difficult to navigate/search because it doesn't seem to break the parts down by chassis. Thanks for the kind words on the build direction too!

Honestly our website is horrible. We are in the works for a new website as we speak, and it will be mobile friendly :naughty:

If you need anything, just email me or give us a call. If a part you want is available for a Z, we can get it. If it's not available for purchase, I can recommend some places to look.

[RVAE34]

Any and all window/exterior rubber seals would be great. Honestly, I will pretty much buy up just about anything I can get. I daily search NOS, OEM new parts on eBay.

[z31andrew]

Just email over a list of what you are looking for and I can keep an eye out. I know all of those pieces you just asked about are hard to find now a days! But, the Nissan dealer we use has access to the old parts catalogs so we can search for any numbers really. Just let me know on an email man!

[RVAE34]

Will do, thanks!

[RVAE34]

Brand new in the box NOS T top with new seals and the proper color trim I want to replicate on the rest of the car. Also pulled the other quarter window and got just about everything in the engine bay unhooked and ready to pull. Will probably do that tomorrow. The quarter window butyl seal had already melted in the past so I just had to remove the two 10mm nuts and pushed right out. One of the most common sources of water leaks. When the painter does the body work to remove the trim, he will bond them in with the same stuff used on windshields this time.

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[RVAE34]

Almost got the engine out but need to wait for a friend to lend me a hand. Kept the wiring harness connected and intact too!

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[RVAE34]

Out

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[supersayianjim]

wow, you are my fucking hero, from euro to jap spec swaps, yep his cock is huuge!!!!

[troskinatior]

Kouki front???

[RVAE34]

Yeah I am going to install the Kouki hood, front bumper and lights.

My throttle bodies are in Australia and have been dismantled. They are supposed to send me some progress photos I hope.

Should be ordering the Watanabe's this week. Going with gunmetal grey 16x8 0, 8.5 -6.

[RVAE34]

Ordered my Watanabe R wheels from Japan. Gunmetal 5x114.3 16x8 0, 8.5 -6. Should be here in about 4 months. I can't wait as I have always wanted a set of real Wat's!

[augustus maximus]

Are you swapping the rear subframe

[RVAE34]

As soon as I find an S14 rear subframe.

[fallen_51]

Loving this

[Rustys14]

As soon as I find an S14 rear subframe.

If your near NOVA I have a s14 subframe that I'm getting ready to scrap. Its yours if you can come pick it up lol

[RVAE34]

If your near NOVA I have a s14 subframe that I'm getting ready to scrap. Its yours if you can come pick it up lol

Where about in nova? Definitely want it! Just subframe or arms included?

[Rustys14]

Just the bare subframe with no arms. I'm in Marshall, about an hour out of DC.

[RVAE34]

I bought an S14 subframe and will order MAX adjustable arms and drop spindle/knuckles. I also got an Infinity J30 diff. 3.98 (IIRC) LSD. I plan to get a Nismo 1.5 way to swap in as well and may even go with a shorter ratio. I have been told the 3.98 is too tall for my setup and my only experience is with BMW so I just couldn't go 4.1x+ off the bat. I may end up swapping the ring and pinion gear but we will see.

EFI Hardware sent me a photo of the throttle bodies stripped down. And the guy doing my 3/4 renders sent me this wild wide body version he designed. I love it but will likely never do anything like that.

These are the MAX parts I plan to order.


https://store.partsshopmax.com/shop/silvia/MultilinkSteering/RKNUC.html

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[augustus maximus]

I run S14 sub with Voodoo13 arms, 350Z diff with Kaaz Super Q,

[RVAE34]

What needs to be done to fit the 350z diff?

[joshg51]

Solid looking cars you've built man. I'm liking this project.

[augustus maximus]

You have to modify the sub since the 350Z diff ears are in a different location

[RVAE34]

Good to know. Had to have my bmw subframe modified to bring the ear mounts in closer to fit the BMW m5 diff.

[greenwood]

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[RVAE34]

Ordered the rear suspension parts from MAX. Also went ahead and ordered ARP head studs as well as the Ross hall sensor kit for the RB. I will definitely want crank fire ignition at the RPM's I will be running. Just chipping away at the parts list

[afishysilvia]

Just chipping away at the parts list

https://i.imgur.com/5sKb4TI.gif

[RVAE34]

Lol! Yeah, I just sold my 04 Volvo V70R so it's Christmas again!

[RVAE34]

Got some more work done. Should have it completely stripped within a week. I will also start stripping the rest of the interior this weekend. Also got some BRIDE fabric for the door panel inserts. Waiting on a few more quotes for the Bride Stradia II with kevlar back to get the best price and should order those in the next week or so too.

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[RVAE34]

I need to clean up and store all the extra parts now. Just waiting for the guy to come pull the windshield to pull the dash since I don't want to risk breaking the defrost section.

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[RVAE34]

Got all the rubber seals and trim removed and intact! Those rubber door/t top seals are tricky and you could easily tear them. No longer available either! Hard to believe out of everything I removed, the only thing that broke were the tabs on the inner quarter window trim panels. I figured everything would break..

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[RVAE34]

Glass guy just finished. Took him 2 hours but he did a great job and didn't damage any of the trim. Now I can pull the dash. I did find a really high quality carpet kit for the car which I hadn't expected. I hated the stock gross thin, sparse carpet that had bleached out to a blueish grey. I was only going to run the bare floor because of this but one of my best friends has convinced me to run carpet. He also told me about his experience with stock interiors.com. He said they literally are just like OE when you upgrade to the better carpeting option with the molded backing. The door panels will be custom done with leather, alcantara and the Bride fabric. Will have them add some custom red stitching to match the seats.

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[RVAE34]

It's surprisingly easy to remove everything. I've taken a ton of photos and I like to put screws back in their places with stuff like this rather than bagging them. I'm pulling everything because I want to paint a bare engine bay so it's perfect. No masking at all.

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[RVAE34]

Parts starting to come in. S14 240sx rear subframe,*MAX lower control arms and drop knuckles. The upper arms and toe rods arrive tomorrow. I ordered Ichiban 5 lug hubs/bearings as well. Soon, I will have the car towed to my friend who will weld in the subframe mounts. I found a rear roll cage for the Z31 and will have my friend weld in a second bar to create an X since I think the 1 sided bar will make my OCD go into overdrive. Then it's off to paint!

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[RVAE34]

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[greenwood]

that chassis is crazy clean, amazing.

[future]

Oh I like this.....We have not even seen engine work yet!

[RVAE34]

Thanks!!

I talked with the machinist and he is about to start the head work. There was a lot of work in line ahead of me. Should be ordering the stroker crank and h beam rods next week! Car should be back to me Sunday with the s14 subframe installed. Custom made rear roll cage should be next

[RVAE34]

S14 subframe installed. It will be delivered back to me as a roller this eve!

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[augustus maximus]

Most of us including me, notch the frame.

[RVAE34]

Notch the frame where though?

Here is the installed photos.

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[lunchmeat]

Nice looking rear ya got there.

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

[RVAE34]

Thanks!

Ordered a Nitto stroker crank, H beam rods and upgraded rod bolts. Also ordered a stainless RB26 exhaust manifold flange since my headers are from the RB25 which oddly enough, has a slightly different bolt pattern. Now I can drop the block and crank off with the machinist and get in line so that by the time he is ready to start that, the custom piston specs will be ready. He can also port match the header flange while doing all the headwork.*Also ordered the forgot to order PSM traction arms for the rear suspension.

[RVAE34]

Throttle bodies are done! Bored out to 49mm with all new seals, bearing and re-plated parts. Ordered Bride seat rails so that I can borrow a used Bride from Japanese Classics for the fabricator to start the roll cage in a week or two.

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[RVAE34]

Enjuku racing RB Z31 oil pan arrived and the traction rods for the rear suspension are supposed to ship tomorrow. Then it will go to a local shop for the rear cage next week. Going for this design only with no diagonal bars down to the trans tunnel.

Lastly, I am having the stock intercooler recess on the valve cover welded up to mirror the other side. It's always bothered the hell out of me on RB's.*

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[RVAE34]

This is so cool! I have never seen this done but always hated the stock intercooler notch on the RB26 valve cover. The body guy made an aluminum cover and welded it in place.

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[carbon24]

Great build. No one really likes to mess with these cars. I did a 5.0 swap in one of these over a year ago. Love the build. We need more z builds.

[RVAE34]

Thanks!


Lotus saffron yellow is out (on the left) as it's too yellow. I am waiting for a Porsche 139 (the color of yellowbird) sprayout next. The safari gold 920 just seems a tad too brown to me but we will see when compared to the Porsche 139.

Cam/valve covers came out perfect! I love it and think it will be one of the coolest little details about this build!

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[RVAE34]

Enlarged throttle bodies (49mm) with new plates, bearings, seals, bore coating and freshly plated hardware.


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[RVAE34]

Nitto stroker 2.8L crank, H beam rods, ROSS crank fire hall sensor kit, ARP head studs, ARP rod bolts and the RB26 exhaust flange. My traction rods arrived as well so I can get those in and tow the car to the shop that's doing the rear cage on Sunday.



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[greenwood]

Everything looks great but that oil pan.

I could have made a better one with some spare sheet metal in my shed! hahaha

[RVAE34]

I agree and have been wondering what I should do about it. First it was delayed by months. Then it got here looking like poorly welded sheet metal. I just sent them an email to ask about it too.

[RVAE34]

Traction arms in and the car is finally brought down. Hilarious how high the front is compared to the rear. Ready for takeoff!

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[RVAE34]

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[afishysilvia]

Love the rims shit

[RVAE34]

Thanks! Real RS Watanabe's. 16x8 0, 8.5 -6. Made to order from Japan.

[RVAE34]

Was about 6 IPA's deep last night and decided to go ahead and order my seats from RHDJapan lol. I was going to order them eventually anyway and there is a 4-6 week lead time.

Bride Stradia II with Gradient fabric and carbon aramide/kevlar back. Shaves around 40 lbs off the weight of the car and the back will kind of match the exterior color of the car.

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[afishysilvia]

I need your bank account. Influenced decisions are always truthful and genuinely what you want I find, just my sober state of mind says don’t be an idiot haha. I’m not a fan of Z’s at all but this is a sweet build!

[RVAE34]

Haha, very true. And thank you! It's funny because for the longest time I absolutely despised these cars. Then one day a few years ago they started to grow on me. Over time, I started to love them and since I always wanted a Z but didn't want the same car/s my dad has, the Z31 started to become an obsession. I was a kid in the 80's too so the nostalgia is huge for me. The goal here is to change a lot of people's opinions on these cars. The problem is they are shit in stock form and most people seem to have/had horrible taste when modding Z31's.

[augustus maximus]

A good looking Z31 is hard to beat. I have a pair of em

[NextTimeJr]

Tried to replace the radio in mine today, what a pain in the ass. Climate control and radio in one massive bulky bracket. Seems like it only has a inch of extra wires for the unit to move and was not interested in snapping a wire or breaking a old plastic plug. Took the loss and left it for another day lol.. Anyways loving the build.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[RVAE34]

Thanks!

Getting there on fitment. Still plenty of adjustments need to be made. Ideally, I want to tuck a tad bit of tire under the fender.

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[RVAE34]

Yay!! 205/55 fits! I rolled the fenders and was able to set the camber much less aggressive. Tried to eye the toe close to 0 as well. Very happy with how this looks.

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[Flicktitty]

This is a cool build, I had a Gray 86 300ZX Turbo about 15 years ago, always said i'll get another one and do a proper build. Keep up the amazing work.

[Benedict]

very cool build. can't wait to hear it.

[gbaby2089]

This looks amazing.

[RVAE34]

Thanks for the kind words, everyone!

[RVAE34]

Beginning of the render with cleaned up rear pan.

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[RVAE34]

Whoa! These just became available. What are the odds? I was already looking around to have this done. Couldn't pass them up. May have the inside of the lenses blasted to create a soft glow.

https://www.dapperlighting.com/collections/simple-tail-lights/products/1983-1987-nissan-300zx-sequential-led-tail-light-with-reverse

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[RVAE34]

I got some great news! My machinist is finally on my engine! He said to come by next weekend for some progress photos as he would have the guides and brass valve seats in. Might have already started port polish/combustion chamber reshaping by then too. And the good thing is once he starts on one, he rolls through it reasonably quick. I got him the kit to take a mold of the cylinder once the head work is done. Then I can send the cast to Raw Brokerage for the custom pistons to be made.

I also tried to see how low I could go with the wheel/tire combo and now see where the frame needs to be notched a tad. The upper control arm hits the frame rail and the trac rod barely hits the inner fender metal.

[gbaby2089]

Exciting progress!

[supersayianjim]

so why are you caging this? is the body flex "that" bad?

also are you going to roll those rear fenders? and what engine management are you going to use? I'm going to make a plug for ecu master.

[RVAE34]

I decided not to cage the car.

I did roll the rear fenders and am able to drop it down really low with the 205's.

Will run stand alone just not exactly sure which at this stage. Will keep that in mind, thanks.

[Dolph_KYAS13]

What are the plans on attaching the ITBs? Going to cut and modify the existing lower section or getting an adapter plate made?

Love the build.

[RVAE34]

Using the stock intake manifold (will block off anything not needed). Having it ported to match the enlarged itbs and headwork. I got a used intake plenum though for assisting with mockup and fabrication of a mount for the throttle linkage.

Thanks!

[RVAE34]

Picked up my S13 Fortune Auto coilovers. Looking forward to getting these in. My best friend is towing the car back to his place soon to weld in the Response Type S13 front conversion kit and he will also notch out the rear frame rails. We decided to see how low the car could go with the current wheel/tire combo and it can go really low. The upper arm hit the frame rail before the tire made any contact. Lastly, my bump steer spacers arrived from Japan.

Note the notches in the S13 front kit. It's really cool because you can adjust camber at the bottom and/or top which means I can bring the track width in our out to suit wheel/tire fitment. It also allows you to rotate the upper camber mount and use it for caster adjustment if you desired. Just offers up a lot of adjustability overall.


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[RVAE34]

Haven't update in a while but ran into some roadblocks. First of all the wheels will not allow for the Z32 brakes. There is only about 1.7" of clearance between the rotor surface and the back of the spoke. Neither front or rear came close. Even the stock front Z31 caliper rubs ever so slightly so I am going to plan on using the Wilwood D52 slimline 2 pot's. I now need to find someone to make the brackets. Second issue is the Z31 upper mount does not line up with S14 bottom mount for my coilovers. The angle is off. Not sure if it's because I am using the rear drop spindle. I adjusted the arms to get it to at least bolt in place but the upper hat wouldn't come flush with the shock tower and the camber was positive. Seems the best option would be to have the upper shock tower modified with a new top section. If I could source one from S13/14 car, that would be even better. The new one will have to be angled slightly. Lot of work for all this but should be worth it in the end to have the drastically improved rear S14 suspension.

My RB26 has the new Supertech valve guides and Tomei beryllium copper valve seats in place. Port and polish begins this weekend. I hope to update with some photos soon.

[RVAE34]

My friend is trying to see if he can come up with a spherical bushing for the rear upper mount to allow for articulation. That would solve the rear coilover issue. And seems it won't be too hard to make a caliper bracket since both are lug mount.

Headwork is coming along nicely! Tomei valve seats and Supertech guides are in. He was very impressed with both and was happy the seats were slightly oversized for an ideal fit. Port and polish starts this weekend. He is going to completely reshape the combustion chamber and unshroud the valves along the outer edges of the chamber. Then cutting for the valves and clearance for the larger cams. Amazed how much different it looked from the last time. I was pretty shocked when I saw it but he wanted me to come take photos because he knew I would feel that way. He said when I see it next time, it will look like new.

Here are 2 before images.


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After

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[BryanS14]

Just saw your E38 build sell on BAT. You do some great work. Nice to see a project/swap car go for such good money!

[RVAE34]

That wasn't mine. But it was built by the same guys who built mine. Mine is a bit more extensive with a supercharger, BBK and BC forged wheels. Also has caramel interior. The guy who sold that one wants to buy mine lol.

[RVAE34]

Port and polish is done on the head. Just need to get back over for some photos.

Fortune Auto added pillow ball mounts to the S13 rear coilovers so they will work properly in the Z31 with S14 rear subframe. I will have those back this week. My powder coated custom modified RB26 cover will be done this week too. Matte wrinkle volcano stone.

Renown 130R steering wheel arrived in leather/rosso and lastly, my dapper lighting sequential LED tail light inserts arrived. Hopefully things start picking up again soon!

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[RVAE34]

Custom RB26 valve cover powder coated in wrinkle volcano stone with a new NOS ornament plate. There are two flaws in the left side so I will have to get them fixed. Going to be pretty anal on this build.

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[EFITTZY]

Valve covers came out so well!

[apex128]

Really cool to see someone putting effort into a z31. I'd like to own one some day

[RVAE34]

Thanks! The prices are moving up fast and more companies are starting to make some cool parts for them. Finally!

[RVAE34]

Went to see my machinist. He is almost done with rough porting. Then he is going to cut the valve seats, polish everything up and then combustion chamber shaping/unshrouding of the valves. My dad met me over there in one of his 240's so I snapped a pic of our cars together too.

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[RVAE34]

Feal suspension released a coilover kit for the Z31 and were willing to build me a rear S13 coilover with the Z31 top hat as part of the kit. Swift springs and likely going with 9k/5k. I got the car at my desired static height to give them measurements for ideal shock travel.

I also got notice that my Bride's are shipping from Japan!

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[RVAE34]

Got my Bride's. Holy crap these are awesome and so light! They fit me perfectly too.

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[z31andrew]

Wooow those are dope

[bardabe]

This is basically the coolest Z31 build I've ever seen.

[RVAE34]

Thank you! The goal all along is to change the opinion of every person who hates the Z31 :D

Forgot to take a exterior color sample pic with the seat backs. That was the reason for wanting the kevlar version.

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[RVAE34]

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[Corbic]

I am just loving that last photo. The color, wheels, Bride seat. Car is looking amazing.

[RVAE34]

Thanks! But it won't be that color for long. I must admit I do like it but I want something a little more loud and the 920 safari gold is just too perfect for this project to me.

Test fit the Dapper Lighting LED sequential boards today. Love them and such solid work on these things! Perfect fitment.

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[RVAE34]

The machinist expects to be able to make the cast for custom pistons in 1-2 weeks! Also, I spent all day with my dad's 240z's, his good friend's G nose 240z, my new friend's Hakosuka and another long time friend's LFA. I got to drive the LFA and the Hakosuka in the same day!!! Now I just need to drive an F40!


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[future]

Omg this thread



But oh woah. Custom pistons!?

[RVAE34]

Yes sir! The combustion chamber is about to be completely reshaped. He will draw the line of the head gasket and start removing material to allow airflow around the valves. The chamber will be round instead of cut off on the outer edges. On a turbo, it doesn't matter but otherwise there are dead spots that don't allow proper flow around the intake valves in particular. Wait until I post the next photos of the combustion chamber! Then he will use the 2 part casting kit I got that takes a mold of the cylinder/combustion chamber with valves open then closed. High compression pistons will be made based on that. Everything matters with natural aspiration!

Btw, here are my friends photos (Mike Lee) from today. He makes my pics look like cell phone shots :(

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[NextTimeJr]

Damn those pics are nice..


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[future]

In all my years I've never heard of reshaping and all this.

I'm mind blown. Tell me more. Pic me more

[Tearlessj]

This build is insane, when I first read this,
But I quickly realized I would have at least $15k in the engine I wanted to build.
I thought "yea, that's a lot of money." Then I saw the rest of the thread, jesus man. This car is going to be amazing. I also can't believe you hang out with a guy that has a LFA, that has to be crazy. I've never even seen one in person.

[drift freaq]

In all my years I've never heard of reshaping and all this.

I'm mind blown. Tell me more. Pic me more

Really seriousl? . Combustion chamber resphaping goes back years. Race car machine shops have done this for Decades. it was popular in the 70’s. In the bay are a guy that made race Datsun engines named Don Potter used to do it a lot.
A friend of mine from high school is selling a bunch of Porsche 911 and 356 heads and some of them have this kind fo work done.

[RVAE34]

Yes, head work is how to get the most out of a naturally aspirated engine. I know it's a little silly to spend this kind of money for 300 RWHP but I am not looking to build a rocket. I just want a fun car that sounds intoxicating. Especially after driving that LFA!!! I still can't get that amazing sound out of my head!

The engine is getting all the head work, larger cams, larger valves, better guides and valve seats as well as stronger valve springs and lifters to handle 9-10k redline. The throttle bodies were bored and the intake mani/exhaust flange will be port matched for everything. Lastly, the Nitto stroker forged crank and H beam rods. It should be one hell of an NA engine and if I ever do get the itch for more, I can just make a few minor changes and slap on a turbo for 1000hp :)

Not an RB but here is a pic with a head in which there is more room in the combustion chamber around the valves. See how the shape is more round like the cylinder instead of cut off just above and below the intake and exhaust valves. That area doesn't matter too much with turbo but it creates a dead spot that hurts the efficiency of an NA motor.

https://www.cartechbooks.com/media/wysiwyg/techtips/sport_compact1/Heads_5.JPG

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[RVAE34]

Feal Suspension coilovers installed and at lowest setting. Front should come down a tad when the engine and trans are in but if anything, I may raise the rear a bit. Love the way it looks!!! Please excuse the mess.

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[future]

Big in the 70s? No wonder I never heard of this reshaping stuff


300 NA WHP on 91 or E?

[RVAE34]

It's big today too. Anyone who does headwork and porting/polishing on a flow bench would do this type of stuff. Most would just never bother with turbo unless overkill.

[RVAE34]

Raised the rear a bit. The front is bound to squat down a tiny bit with the extra weight and the rear fitment is fantastic now with very little negative camber.

Check out that lower control arm angle! Parallel to the ground for the antisquat!

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[RVAE34]

My body guy made a perfect fit patch panel to fill the side marker on the front fender he is doing a sprayout for. I pulled the engine harness, master cylinder and starting to pull the brake lines now. Going to paint soon.*

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[RVAE34]

Engine bay is stripped other than the front subframe with steering lines and the gas lines since I have the rubber hoses capped off. The subframe and steering will come out when it gets painted. The painter is going to build a rolling cart for it while he does all the body work and paint.

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[TheRealSy90]

Big in the 70s? No wonder I never heard of this reshaping stuff


300 NA WHP on 91 or E?

He's talking about removing the quench pads from the cylinder head. It's very common on high horsepower sr20 builds even.

[RVAE34]

I love this color so much and my plate showed up today too!

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[RVAE34]

My machinist said all the port and polish work is done. Valve seats are cut. Now he is just going to work on the combustion chamber to smooth it out and open it up a bit to remove some of the quench pad in order to unshroud the valves. He will take a mold of for the custom pistons. While waiting for the pistons, he will clearance the head for the larger Tomei cams and figure out which shims we need for the Tomei lifters.

[JIMB0]

color looks amazing

[Corbic]

Wow, I approve of the color change.

[IIIXziuR]

Magnificent. I'm really enjoying your efforts thus far.
The stock color was good, but that SG is going to look sharp.

Also, impressive how good of a condition that car was from the start.
Nice to see a Z31 getting some love.

[Sailor]

My machinist said all the port and polish work is done. Valve seats are cut. Now he is just going to work on the combustion chamber to smooth it out and open it up a bit to remove some of the quench pad in order to unshroud the valves. He will take a mold of for the custom pistons. While waiting for the pistons, he will clearance the head for the larger Tomei cams and figure out which shims we need for the Tomei lifters.

Must be one crazy talented machinist! By far the cleanest z i've ever gazed upon. The wheel choice is on point too, probably one of my favorite matchups so far. Honestly the gold, while looking really good, just doesn't compare to the metallic paint it had (mostly because I love the idea of sleeper status). Loving everything else about your build though, I was a kid in the 80's too so the nostalgia is huge for me. The goal here is to change a lot of people's opinions on these cars. The problem is they are shit in stock form and most people seem to have/had horrible taste when modding Z31's. living up to this ^ . S'ubd in anticipation for this A+ build :2f2f:

[jumpman2334]

one of the coolest builds on here right now. I think you will succeed in changing (almost) everyone's mind about the z31. I know you have changed mine.

[RVAE34]

Thanks, gentlemen! I really appreciate all the kind words!

My machinist is the man. Mid 60s and mostly does top fuel type stuff. He loves this project and has taken a keen interest despite the fact that its 300ish hp instead of 2500.. He said "you wont be upset if it makes more power than you think will ya"? I hope so!!!

[RVAE34]

Must be one crazy talented machinist! By far the cleanest z i've ever gazed upon. The wheel choice is on point too, probably one of my favorite matchups so far. Honestly the gold, while looking really good, just doesn't compare to the metallic paint it had (mostly because I love the idea of sleeper status). Loving everything else about your build though, living up to this ^ . S'ubd in anticipation for this A+ build :2f2f:

It's been a really touch choice for me honestly because the stock color grew on me more and more as the car sat in my garage. But I really want to stick to my original plan and have a statement piece. If it had a ton of horsepower, it would be more fun to make a sleeper but with only 300hp roughly at 10k peak rpm going through Alu or Ti exhaust paired with the ITB's and no filters, it will never be a sleeper nor will it be a monster fast car. It will just sound amazing and be a total blast to drive in a spirited fashion. It won't be anywhere near as fast as any of my last 4 cars but I think it will be the most fun overall.

My real goal is to build a restomod version of an 80's Z432 had they recreated it from the original 70's S30 Z432. Confusing I know, right? I have the badging and all. NOS 432 and Fairlady Z emblems. Many of those cars were 920 safari gold with Watanabe's. And the 432 stood for 4 valves per cylinder, triple carbs and twin cam. Which is also what I will have with the RB28 stroker and RB26 ITB's.

Here is a nice example of the original and you can see more of what I am trying to emanate with my build. The original cars had gunmetal valve covers which is why I had mine done like that too. And the reason I chose the twin cam ornament plate instead of the GTR plate. I want to build an 80's radass Z432.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4625/38964761344_2d3b7506e8_c.jpg

http://japanesenostalgiccar.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Nissan-Fairlady-Z432-Bingo-Sports-01.jpg

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[turbo2nr]

Love that color! its very period correct. I cant wait to see thing all together its going to be one hell of a car!

[Sailor]

It's been a really touch choice for me honestly because the stock color grew on me more and more as the car sat in my garage. But I really want to stick to my original plan and have a statement piece. If it had a ton of horsepower, it would be more fun to make a sleeper but with only 300hp roughly at 10k peak rpm going through Alu or Ti exhaust paired with the ITB's and no filters, it will never be a sleeper nor will it be a monster fast car. It will just sound amazing and be a total blast to drive in a spirited fashion. It won't be anywhere near as fast as any of my last 4 cars but I think it will be the most fun overall.

My real goal is to build a restomod version of an 80's Z432 had they recreated it from the original 70's S30 Z432. Confusing I know, right? I have the badging and all. NOS 432 and Fairlady Z emblems. Many of those cars were 920 safari gold with Watanabe's. And the 432 stood for 4 valves per cylinder, triple carbs and twin cam. Which is also what I will have with the RB28 stroker and RB26 ITB's.

Here is a nice example of the original and you can see more of what I am trying to emanate with my build. The original cars had gunmetal valve covers which is why I had mine done like that too. And the reason I chose the twin cam ornament plate instead of the GTR plate. I want to build an 80's radass Z432.


By no means would I want to sway you from the vision of this car, because honestly that vision is awesome. Really was just my 2 cents in a build that isn't my own, you own it and you'll have to live with it, so anything I think about how it should look is irrelevant. Feel free to ignore it completely :keke: You know exactly what you want for this build, and your doing it, the right way. I have a large amount of respect for sticking to the retro rebuild and rebranding to match the Z432- a brilliant master plan

With those pictures I can really start to gather, piece by piece, what the end result of this Z will be.

[RVAE34]

It's been a tough choice for me too though bc the original color is badass. It's very close to the color of my LSx 427 e39 touring I built a few years ago.

Thank you for your comments!!

[IIIXziuR]

I enjoy the Z432 concept you are going for. Really cool!

Any idea what the name of the color on the car now is?

[RVAE34]

I used to know the name but don't recall it now. I will find out.

[nismo35]

This build is awesome!!! I hate I gave up my S130ZX!!!

[RVAE34]

Thanks!

This is my favorite photo I took of my dad's car outside to best show the color.

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[RVAE34]

There were some pinholes in the metal after it was powder coated that I hadn't noticed previously so I had them tig welded and then I sanded it all back smooth. There is a little bit of a low spot on top so I will likely have it coated again to see if it's noticeable and if so, I will have it filled and painted. Going to be very particular about the way the engine looks on this car. The filler panel on the valve cover is one of my favorite details about this build and one that will be mostly ignored by the majority but greatly appreciated by those who notice.

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[RVAE34]

Scored these incredibly nice used fogs from Japan. Anyone who knows about the Z31 knows how hard it is to find clean fogs. Even most pitted, chipped and even cracked sets sell for $200 plus. So now I need to sell my old pitted set. I also have a brand new NOS one I got from Japan last month. Then, I scored these new door handles from the same seller.

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[augustus maximus]

But those are kouki lens and you have a zenki, unless you plan to swap the nose.

[RVAE34]

Yes indeed. I already have the Kouki bumper and JDM carbon fiber front lip. Also have the headlights and side skirts. I do plan on keeping the zenki low beams and running a slim line fog. Will have to narrow the housing a tad since the Kouki lights are narrower than the zenki. It's a popular mod in Japan.

[IIIXziuR]

Loving the valve cover modification. Great idea.

[augustus maximus]

You should continue updating on Z31p, I threw one of my builds on there today to help breathe life back into our forum, lol

[RVAE34]

Just posted on it!

I got screwed! The seller accepted my door handle bid but cancelled my fog light pair. I am absolutely livid considering how hard I have searched and how much I wanted those. Wish I could screw him and not pay for the handles but too late. Oh well, I will likely never participate in another yahoo japan auction unless it's a buy it now.

[augustus maximus]

Don't worry I deleted mine in favor of mounting my IC properly

[RVAE34]

Ah, how are they though? The ones I had "won" were near mint. I have a set that are pitted and the last 10 sets that have come up for sale were awful. I am trying to make this car as perfect as physically possible. Guess I will have to get a set polished and then Xpel wrapped. I have a driver side NOS but the odds of finding a passenger side are rare.

[jumpman2334]

did you use a middle man service? or did you actually do it yourself?


have your tried reaching out to someone like streeter who may be able to track you something down?

[RVAE34]

Used a local importer. Seems likely the bid was cancelled because it was a US bidder but odd that they accepted the door handles bid within an hour of the other. And the same seller. Oh well, live and learn.

DIdn't know anything about someone else to do the bids. It would be ideal if I had someone in Japan bidding for me it seems. I buy a lot of parts and would greatly help with the build.

[jumpman2334]

yes. look into jesse streeter and his services. he moved there and became a middle man. he knows his stuff and what to look for.

[RVAE34]

Thanks for the tip!

[RVAE34]

My Nissan truck is the recent featured design on blipshift. It's now the single most liked vehicle design they have ever posted on IG and the 2nd most liked design ever. Only trailing #1 out of 1016 total posts by about 100 likes! Crazy considering they post so many designs with supercars etc. A Nissan truck is the leader...

I also don't think I posted the final render of the bumper delete rear with the symmetrical pan. I won't be doing it but might as well show ya.

https://www.blipshift.com/products/summer-body

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[RVAE34]

Car is raised up with the old wheels on and outside for the first time in many moons. Ready to be towed to my painters! Working on degreasing the engine bay today.

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[RVAE34]

It was towed over today. So exciting!!!

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[JIMB0]

i cant wait to see this car 100% yellow!!!

[Sailor]

I'm excited to see how it looks all yellow too, sad to see the oem color go

[RVAE34]

I am going to pick up the tail lights today. The painter sanded the lenses completely smooth, removing all letters/numbers/stampings etc. He then polished to mirror finish and had them Xpel clear wrapped by the guy who did my E38. He is also giving me a quote on shaving the engine bay. I will be using so few stock items that I might as well add my own threadserts if I need to add anything. Battery and any/all electrical items that can be moved will be relocated under the dash and in the cargo bay area. I will have my best friend build me a sick electrical setup for this car that will be one of the features. I do plan to keep everything in place on the firewall in case I want to run AC but will try without it first. Will have a cover made for the ports.

Going to take photos of the head tomorrow. Machinist has already started machining the combustion chamber and is removing material for cam clearance. He then just has to do final smoothing on the chamber so it should be done within a week tops.

[Dolph_KYAS13]

My Nissan truck is the recent featured design on blipshift. It's now the single most liked vehicle design they have ever posted on IG and the 2nd most liked design ever. Only trailing #1 out of 1016 total posts by about 100 likes! Crazy considering they post so many designs with supercars etc. A Nissan truck is the leader...

I also don't think I posted the final render of the bumper delete rear with the symmetrical pan. I won't be doing it but might as well show ya.

https://www.blipshift.com/products/summer-body

https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1862/42440661600_5f386ddf11_b.jpg




Sweet. Cool to see more blipshift artists on here. Ive always loved the renderings of your Z

[RVAE34]

Thanks! I just came up with the concept. I didn't make any of the renderings.

Painted sanded the lenses smooth, removing all the letters etc. Then he polished them and had them Xpel clear wrapped. Looks amazing. He had to redo the brake lenses but those will be done next week so I can put them all back together.

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[NextTimeJr]

Those taillights are really nice, what are you gonna run in between them above the plate? Just the stock bar with “300zx”?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[RVAE34]

Yeah. He will polish and clear wrap that next. I will be changing all the gloss black trim strips in the lights, the license plate panel and the spoiler to satin gunmetal grey to match all the trim and front spoiler. I only want the safari gold paint to be gloss.

[jumpman2334]

the shaved tail lights look great! wrapping them in clear was a great idea too

[RVAE34]

Progress on the head. You can see the line outside the bore diameter where the entire chamber will be opened up for the larger pistons too. He said it would be done in a week. Last two are the before and after.



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[RVAE34]

Dropped off some parts. He had done more than I expected. Shaved the antenna, rear side markers and replaced the bit of rust in the rear quarters with inner patch panels thus far. Epoxy was drying and then he will tackle the outer sheet metal. Soon he will drop the front and rear subframe and build a rolling cart for it so I can get some stuff powder coated.

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[Flicktitty]

awesome progress, Is that an E-Type next to your Z in the last pic?

[RVAE34]

It is indeed. He does mostly classic restorations and doesn't do any insurance work. My project should really roll over the next few weeks.

[RVAE34]

Stopped by my machinist. He is rolling now. Made a nifty tool to get the stock lifter shims out just to save himself $140 :rofl He machined the tool and put 2-2mm rare earth magnets in each hole. Look at how much bigger the new valve openings are. That's the stock RB26 valve in the photo after the tool.

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[supersayianjim]

this is effing sexy!!

[RVAE34]

Thank you!!

Some previous progress pics from the body shop.

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[RVAE34]

Put a deposit down on this today. 1993 Cedric Gran Turismo turbo VG30det with 32k miles. All original.

Keep in mind this is all original (which I prefer). I am going to think it over for the weekend but if I buy, Fortune Auto coilovers, wheels/tires and a stereo.

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[z31andrew]

Damn that Cedric is sweet!!

[supersayianjim]

pic of under hood and the trunk please

[RVAE34]

Didn't take pics but equally clean.

[RVAE34]

Here are the photos they took of the actual car I have the deposit on.

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[supersayianjim]

yumm!!!! are you going to keep this auto? and please get rid of that damn hicas!

[afishysilvia]

Very nice pick up! Also what is that exhaust? Is there a pipe running from the rear of the muffler going out towards the exit too?

[gbaby2089]

^Twin loop muffler.

OEM exhaust on Honda S2000 does the same thing.

[afishysilvia]

^Twin loop muffler.

OEM exhaust on Honda S2000 does the same thing.

I have never seen it before, interesting. Does this do something for the noise or back pressure? Beautiful car none the less, but lets see more of the Z!

[RVAE34]

I decided to not buy a 4th car. Especially since my wife wouldn't ever drive it.

He sprayed epoxy primer to protect the bare metal.

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[afishysilvia]

I decided to not buy a 4th car. Especially since my wife wouldn't ever drive it.



Dang man! I was just getting ready to tell you to check my recent build page. Saw a Gloria over the weekend, I was saying the irony of seeing your post then a few days later the same thing in person! Either way, nice progress on the Z! That yellow is going to look great. :2f2f:

[gbaby2089]

I have never seen it before, interesting. Does this do something for the noise or back pressure? Beautiful car none the less, but lets see more of the Z!

IIRC, it is the easiest way to quiet things without sacrificing a ton of flow.

[RetsonRoss]

I've always appreciated people who properly build N/A setups.
Subscribed for more!

[nismo35]

I sent that Cedric to my wife hoping to convince her that her Si 4-Door was to small. I was shot down!

[supersayianjim]

well that sucks the wife isn't complying. but fuck it buy a r33 in another year.

[RVAE34]

My wife/family likes chikfila too much to drive a rhd car.

[supersayianjim]

are you going to use a can-am box for the wiring?

[RVAE34]

I am not familiar with what that is. I will look into it. There is only one guy I would trust to do my wiring and he is a perfectionist. Told him I want the electrical to be a big fewture of this build. With custom made panels, fuse/relay setups and quick disconnect bulkheads to make it modular/clean.

[supersayianjim]

I am not familiar with what that is. I will look into it. There is only one guy I would trust to do my wiring and he is a perfectionist. Told him I want the electrical to be a big fewture of this build. With custom made panels, fuse/relay setups and quick disconnect bulkheads to make it modular/clean.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrCkdkZsxS8



here you go. im also at the end of my swap (ka24 into a pathfinder) I suck at wiring and diagrams so this seems like a fool proof thing.

[RVAE34]

Stock ka or turbo? Been trying to decide if I should do a swap in my d21 4x4 truck. Ideally, I want to do the vg na from the z32 300zx. Turbo ka or sr20 might be an option but I want to keep 4x4 so not sure what the best choice would be. It has a stock 3.0 in it. 95 xev6.

[supersayianjim]

Stock ka or turbo? Been trying to decide if I should do a swap in my d21 4x4 truck. Ideally, I want to do the vg na from the z32 300zx. Turbo ka or sr20 might be an option but I want to keep 4x4 so not sure what the best choice would be. It has a stock 3.0 in it. 95 xev6.

ha, you don't say???


http://zilvia.net/f/showthread.php?t=660741

[RVAE34]

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[supersayianjim]

holy shit, that is fkn mint!!! yes that front diff/subframe is a bitch to work around.

[RVAE34]

Thanks! Took me like a year of daily searching to find it. Bought 3.5 years ago w 65k miles. Just rolled over 85k. I did the 87 pathfinder front end swap. Bought last NOS grill in country!

Looks like custom oil pick up and exhaust manifolds would be biggest challenge for the na z32 vg swap. Would look so good and perform so much better. But turbo ka would be easiest if I just bought a 4cyl junker as a base.

[supersayianjim]

yes now on the ka route, remember I had a 4 cylinder 5 speed the z24 trans fits the ka engine. iirc I think the v6 5 speed is different. if you want to make ur life much easier you should source a 4wd d22 5 speed ka motor as their oil pickup and pan is for 4x4. now those are hard to find in the junkyards, and I went with this 240sx motor is because it was free-99 after I sold the tranny it came with.

[RVAE34]

Ha! What's funny is that I bought a supercharged VG Frontier manual 4x4 as a donor for a swap. At the time, I had too many projects going on and just sold the truck at a small loss. Really wish I hadn't now but what can you do.. I just love the look of the Z32 VG which is why I would really love to make it work. But in reality, it seems like a bit overly optimistic especially after spending so much money on the Z31.

Good tip on the KA D22!

[supersayianjim]

Ha! What's funny is that I bought a supercharged VG Frontier manual 4x4 as a donor for a swap. At the time, I had too many projects going on and just sold the truck at a small loss. Really wish I hadn't now but what can you do.. I just love the look of the Z32 VG which is why I would really love to make it work. But in reality, it seems like a bit overly optimistic especially after spending so much money on the Z31.

Good tip on the KA D22!


no problem, you CAN make it work on a d21, just not THAT d21. there are people putting rb engines in these, but they can only do it on 2wd ones.

[RVAE34]

2 identical renders. One with trim and one without. I am leaning towards keeping the trim with these more accurate renders. Before, the original didn't have trim shown elsewhere nor the T tops. This is how the final car will look. I just won the JDM side markers on yahoo japan.

These also show a shortened rear bumper.

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[RVAE34]

Decided on the Haltech 2500 ECU since I am using a crank trigger wheel in addition to the cam sensor.

Trying to decide on an oil pump now and it's between an N1 R34 GTR pump with billet Spool gears, Nitto high flow with Nitto billet external oil drain or the Tomei with an external oil drain. Leaning towards the Nitto.

[supersayianjim]

pic of said nitto?

[RVAE34]

You can google image search it. I am on my phone so can't post pics. It's a beast and priced accordingly but not sure it's necessary for my build.

[RVAE34]

Decided on the N1 pump with Spool gears.

[supersayianjim]

Decided on the N1 pump with Spool gears.

the cheaper/proven route.

[supersayianjim]

is that collar extended?

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[RVAE34]

Yeah, I have the Nitto stroker crank.

[RVAE34]

Exterior body work is almost done. I ordered the Haltech 2500 stand alone ECU and the R34 N1 oil pump with the upgraded Spool gears.

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[RVAE34]

Machinist is currently working on the engine this eve and said the piston mold should be done tomorrow or Sunday.

Stopped by the body shop to drop off some parts and took some photos of my own. It looks fantastic! The next updates should be good stuff!

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[BryanS14]

Looks awesome. Jealous of such a straight body to start with.

[RVAE34]

Thanks!

CP overnighted new mold kits to my machinist so hoping to pick the mold up this weekend. The shelf life is pretty short apparently.

Body guy is priming the car tomorrow!

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[RVAE34]

Correct, RB combustion chambers are far from ideal which is why my machinist is doing so much work to my head.

The car isn't primed yet. He was trying to wrap up another car that's just about done. I will have primed pics next week.

Piston mold is done and ready to send off to CP. He finished doing the port and polish on the intake manifold to match the head and over bored RB26 ITB's. Lastly, I got the N1 R34 GTR oil pump, Spool gears and the Haltech 2500 ECU. Today I also ordered Tomei adjustable cam gears.

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[RVAE34]

Fenders were rolled and he pushed them out 3mm for extra tire clearance while keeping the flat edge! Primer is tomorrow!

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[PoorMans180SX]

This thing looks extremely well done man. Good choices on the Feal suspension and the s-chassis subframe swap.

[RVAE34]

Thank you!

Epoxy and filler prime.

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[RVAE34]

Custom pistons ordered from CP. 12:1 compression, oversized with rings and wrist pins. I paid the extra for 2-3 week expedited delivery and to have each piston completely ceramic coated to reduce friction and heat. Can't wait!

[bardabe]

Custom pistons ordered from CP. 12:1 compression, oversized with rings and wrist pins. I paid the extra for 2-3 week expedited delivery and to have each piston completely ceramic coated to reduce friction and heat. Can't wait!

have you ever experienced WPC treatment? or heard of it?

[RVAE34]

I have not and although I said ceramic coated, it is possible CP will suggest some other coating. I just opted to have the dome and side skirts coated in whatever they suggest. I want to let them do it because they input the thickness of material into the overall size of the custom pistons apparently.

[RVAE34]

have you ever experienced WPC treatment? or heard of it?

Just read about it. Very cool stuff and just so happens that CP's site says they offer it as a treatment so I will look into the pricing tomorrow.

[bardabe]

Just read about it. Very cool stuff and just so happens that CP's site says they offer it as a treatment so I will look into the pricing tomorrow.

yeah WPC is the best stuff i've ever used. doesn't rub off like coating will over time. good stuff, I'd highly suggest it.

[RVAE34]

In talking with CP, I am going ceramic dome and WPC on the rest of the piston.

Engine bay shaving well under way.

Good before and after of the passenger side firewall.

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[RVAE34]

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[RVAE34]

Thanks, gentlemen!!

Machinist orders shims for the valve springs so he can assemble the head and then it will be ready for the short block. Pistons should be done in 2 weeks.

Finally got the upper lenses back and am amazed how good the tail lights look after sanding, polishing and Xpel clear wrap.

Also, more work on the engine bay. Almost all holes gone now.

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[RVAE34]

Passenger side access holes now all welded up. Looks like he decided to just cut out the uneven sections on the driver.


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[RVAE34]

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[bardabe]

nicest Z31 ever. holy shit man.

[feito]

And that, that's how you properly re-paint metal. Down to the bare metal and start over. Badass build man.

[BryanS14]

So which one is it? 1. You are helping your body guy. 2. You have deep pockets. 3. You give good handies? LOL Looks awesome. That is a ton of work to repair, strip, prep and paint an engine bay.

[Tearlessj]

So which one is it? 1. You are helping your body guy. 2. You have deep pockets. 3. You give good handies? LOL Looks awesome. That is a ton of work to repair, strip, prep and paint an engine bay.

You can get a lot done if you do all 3. :keke:

[RVAE34]

Haha, thanks! I tore the car down myself to get it ready but the paint and bodywork/metal fab arent cheap.

The welding of all the seams starts next week. This is the look I'm going for.

Also, if anyone is interested, here are the photos from my PBMW magazine photoshoot with my 2001 BMW 740, rebuilt M5 S62 V8/6 speed/M5 diff with 4 clutch swapped, ESS supercharger, Brembo front BBK, 750 rear brakes, UUC sway bars, BC Forged HB04's, Bilstein HD's and H&R springs with custom dyed interior. Can't wait to see the feature myself once they are stateside!

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[lonewanderer]

Have you considered switching to the finned r31 valve covers for improved cooling on your engine?

[RVAE34]

Not with all the work I've had done to the 26 covers. Intercooler piping notch welded and the ignitor location is currently being welded up now. Shouldn't have too much issue with cooling being that it will be n/a with lots of room under the hood for airflow.

[C. Anderson]

The baffling in the 26 valve covers are much much better than the baffling in the r31 covers. I would say baffling is more important than any small cooling improvement due to the known oiling issues of rb's.

Also, amazing work and I can't wait to see more of this.

[jumpman2334]

seriously when i thought you couldn't get any cooler i see the DTOM plate. hell yeah.