Michael's Full Bolt-On 83' 280zx Turbo Build

Michael has owned this super clean 83’ 280zx Turbo for quite some time now, and other than a set of Panasport wheels, and a MSA 30th Anniversary Front Air Dam, the car came to us 100% stock, with a complete interior, and all of the working creature comforts that came factory with the 280zx. He decided now was the time to put down some more power and make the car even more enjoyable for the Spring and Summer months up in Connecticut.

We outfitted him with our full bolt-on package for the factory turbo, which includes a complete fuel injection system upgrade with our Megasquirt 2 Plug and Play ECU and harness setup, coupled with a set of new Bosch 440cc injectors, all of the supporting mods to bring the boost pressure up from 7 psi to 15psi. We even managed to retain the factory air-conditioning system in-tact and working so he can enjoy higher horsepower without breaking a sweat during the summer months. This build is the platform to follow if you don’t want to get into crazy engine builds and upgrade the turbocharger, and although it is an antiquated turbo design, the factory Garrett AiResearch T3 turbo is still very responsive, and can hold it’s own. Couple that with a Schneider Stage 2 Turbo camshaft, this car is a completely different animal now.

ENGINE SPECS

  • Nissan L28ET 2.8L Inline-6 Engine

  • Borg Warner T-5 (FS5R90A) Transmission

  • P90A Cylinder Head with Hydraulic Lash Adjuster Delete

  • Schneider Stage 2 Turbo Camshaft (260-70F-14)

  • GRW Megasquirt 2 Plug and Play ECU and Harness Package (Tuned for 15psi)

  • GRW Bosch EV6 440cc Fuel Injector and Rail Upgrade Kit

  • GRW Front Mount Intercooler Kit w/ Cold Air Intake

  • GRW 3” HKS Hi-Power Turboback Exhaust System

  • Allstar 40k Volt Ignition Coil

  • Centerforce Stage 2 Clutch Kit

  • 3-Row Aluminum Radiator

  • GRW Dual SPAL Electric Fan Kit

  • TurboSmart Manual Boost Controller

  • HKS SSQV Blow off Valve

  • GRW EGR and AAC Delete Plates

  • GRW Pop Off Valve Delete Plug

  • Glowshift Digital 10 Series Wideband

  • Walbro 255LPH Fuel Pump

EXTERIOR SPECS

  • Cusco Front Strut Bar

  • Cusco Rear Strut Bar

  • Panasport FS Type Wheels 15x7

  • Toyo Proxes R888R Tires 225/50/ZR15

  • MSA 30th Anniversary Edition Front Bumper


Christopher Miller