Datsun Zcar Books
Update: I’ve compiled a list of useful books for Z owners here.
Recently I’ve been stumped as to what I can do to refresh my 240z. The most obvious choice is to buy everything from NOS (New Old Stock) or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). However there’s only one problem with that, it’s so damn expensive especially if you are trying to buy alot of these parts through a nissan dealer or from the states. Now obviously some items will need to be bought new no doubt about it. However I am hoping the How to restore your Zcar book will provide some insights into refreshing and refurbishing original items.
From the very limited amount I have read so far, it looks like it will be a useful resource and let’s face it the internet isn’t always the best way to find information. This is mainly because for anyone who doesn’t know everything about cars and doesn’t understand the name of all the various parts on a car a workshop manual can be in another language. The good thing about Wick Humble’s book is that it features pictures of what’s going on.
Another good point about Wick’s book is that it features information on body work and painting your car. I have heard so many horror stories about body shops that I would just feel better if I had an understanding and some hands on input into my own cars bodywork. Besides then I’m in control of how long it takes and not some spray painter who has tucked it to the back of the shop. The book also covers interior restoration, suspension, brakes, drivetrain. It pretty much covers everything although some sections may be a little more brief than others.
Combined with the How to Modify your Nissan Datsun OHC Engine and How to Rebuild your L-series OHC engine. These are an god send, I’ve so far only completely read “how to modify” but having said that I learnt alot about performance engines. I’m hoping these books provide the same experience and give me some new thoughts and ideas for fixing up items on my Zcar.
One of the main areas I’m still a little unclear on is camshaft timing setup I’m hoping the rebuild book gives some good information on this process and I plan to fully document my L31 build up in a manner that will hopefully help others who may be unclear also. One quick note about the engine books. I’ve noticed some of them feature measurements for some parts such as L14 rods. These should be double checked especially if the engine was not a US delivered engine. So far I have noticed some minor discrepancies.
