BKCowGod's Pre-Pre-Frontier Build (Datsun 720)

alexrex20

Explorer
either you're confused about the cylinder numbers or the distributor is incorrectly clocked. all that matters is that you got it to run great! screw what the distributor cap and shop manual says.
 

BKCowGod

Automotive ADHD is fun!
either you're confused about the cylinder numbers or the distributor is incorrectly clocked. all that matters is that you got it to run great! screw what the distributor cap and shop manual says.

That's what everybody assumed, but it's a dual spark system (8 plugs for a 4cyl). The intake side is perfect, but if you put the exhaust side in the order it's supposed to be (book and markings on the dizzy) it won't even start. Fascinating stuff...
 

jpvm

Explorer
That's what everybody assumed, but it's a dual spark system (8 plugs for a 4cyl). The intake side is perfect, but if you put the exhaust side in the order it's supposed to be (book and markings on the dizzy) it won't even start. Fascinating stuff...

That engine is the NAPS-Z, its a Z24i Nissan engine with 8 spark plugs made initially for California emission levels. The rest of the world had the same Z24 with 4 spark plugs called Z24S, I had a Z24S in my '93 D21 truck. This Z24i engine had an electronically controlled carb, maybe there is something you left unplugged or left a loop open and now it won't start.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_Z_engine#Z24
 
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BKCowGod

Automotive ADHD is fun!
That engine is the NAPS-Z, its a Z24i Nissan engine with 8 spark plugs made initially for California emission levels. The rest of the world had the same Z24 with 4 spark plugs called Z24S, I had a Z24S in my '93 D21 truck. This Z24i engine had an electronically controlled carb, maybe there is something you left unplugged or left a loop open and now it won't start.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_Z_engine#Z24

Nope, it's a Z24. The Z24i was only sold in the 720 in late '85 and early '86 and had a TBI system. This has been since I bought the truck, anyway. The dual spark was the only option in the US 720, no matter the state.

I don't really care, as long as it runs well! I just find it amazing that the factory specs don't work at all but a complete bodge of the exhaust firing order made it run beautifully.
 
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partsflyin

Adventurer
Nice truck!! Gotta love a 720!! Here's my DD.
skidderpics-027.jpg



A great accent to the weber would be a header. I'm running the same carb and a pacesetter header, excellent improvement in power and mileage.
Also consider doing away with the mechanical fan and swapping in an electric one, another way to get a touch of improvement.
 
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BKCowGod

Automotive ADHD is fun!
Your wish is my command! Picked up a shell off Craigslist for $50 and installed it. Halfway through, I'm thinking "should I be using all these power tools in the rain?"
IMG_2308.JPG

Once the world dries for long enough, the shell is gonna get itself some paint to match, but until then it is quite presentable. We also got a new computerized die cutter at work (pretty awesome toy - anything you see on your screen it will cut, and the whole machine sells for $200) so I put on my very own "theft prevention" sticker. Not sure if it will actually keep anybody away, but this logo has been a running joke with my friends for quite some time...
IMG_2303.JPG

Finally, I installed some Hella 550's and moved the fog lights up a little bit. I am collecting relays so I can run everything properly and not route a lot of power through the little wires in the dash.
IMG_2302.JPG
 

BKCowGod

Automotive ADHD is fun!
Now that is sweet! Curious - will the pacesetter pass smog (visual is no problem for me)?

On an aside - Amazon has Superwinch premium locking hubs for $41 shipped right now if you wanna get rid of your auto hubs.

Nice truck!! Gotta love a 720!! Here's my DD.
skidderpics-027.jpg



A great accent to the weber would be a header. I'm running the same carb and a pacesetter header, excellent improvement in power and mileage.
Also consider doing away with the mechanical fan and swapping in an electric one, another way to get a touch of improvement.
 

Maximus Ram

Expedition Leader
BKC, I thought this was going to be your run-a-bout rig ? Looks like its turning into a regular expo build...:Wow1::sombrero:
 

BKCowGod

Automotive ADHD is fun!
BKC, I thought this was going to be your run-a-bout rig ? Looks like its turning into a regular expo build...:Wow1::sombrero:

You should know by now that I can never leave well enough alone. Luckily the cheap camper means I can afford sliders and stay within budget :victory:
 

BKCowGod

Automotive ADHD is fun!
Thanks! I don't know about the smog deal on the header , thats not an issue here in VA.

Sweeeet deal on the hubs!! I now have a set on the way! Thanks for the heads up!!

Kinda funny - I watched the price drop from $50 to $40 to $35 - snagged them at $35 and now they're back up to $42. I think Amazon's system is completely automated!
 

BKCowGod

Automotive ADHD is fun!
Operation Overkill was a success.

Using only stuff found in my garage, I now have fog and driving lights:

IMG_2341.JPG

IMG_2340.JPG


Still need to do some aiming and the like, but I am happy with it.
IMG_2339.JPG
 

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