Lawrence's SR20 Swapped 73' 620 Pickup

When people think Datsun, they typically think the 240z, and how rare and valuable they have become. But what most people don’t realize, is that there are some Datsun models that by today’s standards are much harder to come by in 2021. The 240z was a coveted car from it’s release, but most of Datsun’s other in the vehicle line-up slowly became phased out by fleet companies, traded in by owners, or junked at the end of their useful lives. When the 620 was initially produced, nobody had the forethought of preservation in mind. That is what makes this 620 pickup so special.

Lawrence took this project on in his garage almost 2 decades ago, and slowly built it into the masterpiece that it is today. Lots of awesome rare JDM goodies, as well as a modern powertrain and accompanying electronics under the hood. Long gone is the original L16 4-cylinder engine, in favor of something a little more modern, and suiting to the vision of this truck. A turbocharged 2.0L SR20DET 4-Cylinder, only available in the Japanese market found in the Nissan Silvia S13. Coupled with the FS5W71C gear box, this updated powertrain gives this truck a modern feel, but doesn’t over-complicate it.

We received the truck almost 17 years post-swap, for some much needed TLC. We pulled the engine and transmission and did a complete engine re-seal, and transmission rebuild and re-seal. We also fabricated a 2.5” stainless steel downpipe with a flex coupler to work around some of the more complicated piping routing requirements with a turbocharger setup. Standard run of the mill stuff for an engine swap into a truck that was never designed for it.

After re-assembly, we really got to experience the true spirit that was behind the vision of the build. A simple, updated, and responsive truck that will accelerate, stop, and handle in any direction the driver puts it. Being involved in this build was an honor, and an awesome opportunity.

ENGINE SPECS

  • Nissan SR20DET (S13 Red Top)

  • Nissan 5-Speed FS5W71C Gear Box

  • Lightweight Chrome-moly Flywheel

  • Exedy Stage 2 Clutch Kit

  • Custom Front Mount Intercooler

  • Greddy Type RS Blow Off Valve

  • Updated Nissan Timing Chain and Tensioner Kit

  • 2.5” Stainless Steel Exhaust w/ Magnaflow Muffler

  • GReddy Short Ram Intake

  • Aluminum Radiator w/ Electric Fan

  • Lokar Stainless Steel Braided Throttle Cable Kit

INTERIOR / EXTERIOR SPECS

  • Volk TE37 6 Lug Wheels

  • Pirelli P-Zero Tires

  • Wilwood 4-Piston Front / Rear Big Brake Kits

  • Clear Turn Signal Lenses

  • JDM Fender Mirrors

  • Clear Side Marker Lenses

  • Sparco Racing Seats

  • Sparco Steering Wheel

Christopher Miller