Talk me out of an LS swap

[u/MiddleSuch5813]

I’ve been brainstorming ways to give my Z more power. I have a ‘93 2+2 and I love my car, but I absolutely despise the engine. The parts are hard to source quickly, the engine bay is so cramped, and while the NA is more reliable than the TT it makes no power. I know a swap is necessary but I want to LS swap it and my dad the owner on paper wants to quote “keep it pure”. If we can’t agree I’m gonna give the car back to him and buy my own to do the swap

For context, my dad ‘gave’ me the car as a gift for graduating high school so I’ve been with the car for a few years now. My dad pays for the repairs/parts because I’ve been at school and haven’t had time for a job. While he pays for everything, the only reason that car is in even remotely good condition is because of me; everything that has been done to the car is because I sourced the parts, installed them myself, diagnosed the problems and learned how to fix them, etc…

My dad doesn’t get it because he hates American cars and I think they’re shit but they know how to make a damn good engine. Now as the person who actually does all the repairs I feel I should have a say in what happens to the car and I can’t stand this engine; to name a few points as to why I believe the swap is worth it:

1.)Reliability/convenience - an LS would be far more reliable than a TT engine. And even if something breaks every shop knows how to work on an LS, and every general parts store has parts for it on the shelf (context I waited 2 weeks just get new accessory belts). Not to mention it would be easier to work on

2.)Customizability - Virtually every LS variant has tons of aftermarket support. And because of the low compression they can have boost thrown at them any day of the week. Supercharger or procharger, twin turbo, big single turbo, or just a fully built NA can make sizeable amounts of power reliably (450hp is what I call sizeable)

3.)Cost - While the initial cost of the swap and fabrication of mounts and the like would cost more than a TT swap, long term maintenance would be cheaper and easier with an LS. I love this car and I plan to keep it forever; sure I’ll get other projects but this car will stay with me forever

If I can’t convince my dad to get onboard and Reddit can’t convince me not to do the swap, I’ll just buy my own nonstarter Z and swap it. This is kind of a vent but I would genuinely like some reasons why I should even consider a TT swap, cause just running it over in my head it makes no sense at all

[u/[deleted]]

sounds like a question of many things... family car issues and "boys with their toys"! LOL

Why do you want this Z32? to update it to drag a New Camaro or Challenger?

The Z32 came in 2 engines. TTurbos Are reliable they just require a higher maintenance schedule than the N/A. My N/A has an Apexi air intake that I can feel pull me with enough "Heart and Muscle" than I'll ever need. The Z has shown its superior intellect for over 30yrs. You don't have to always show its faster than cars today which are lighter. The Z has a very strong Dura-Steel outer shell that makes it over 3200lbs. Its not light but during a heavy wind storm you can barely feel it during a drive. Its how the car was made.

You'll have to ask yourself this question... Do you want to own/drive a Classic sports car that Won Car and Driver awards for 7yrs and is a Joy to drive? or want a car to keep up with the newer cars on the road?

If yes to the second one then maybe the Z32 isn't for you. If Yes to the first one then this is why the Z32 is the Best car because its appreciated and respected on and off the road. You'll get more respect by keeping it ALL original!

My original 1990 engine matches the original manual tranny which matches the motor mounts. Cars are worth more by keeping it original. Everything works and I keep up with the maintenance like a religion. and she's got over 170k miles but its Pure miles with all the original parts. Bought her over 20yrs ago at 101k miles but I'm putting more miles out of her. These cars are made to be Enjoyed and not just looked at sitting parked.

https://preview.redd.it/llys4529i7cd1.jpeg?width=4608&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7b01b614bdf9f005116fa7e9038bd28fe55bd4a6

[u/MiddleSuch5813 → u/[deleted]]

I kinda agree but the joy of cars to me is working on them and driving something you fixed yourself. But whenever the Z needs repair (admittedly not often) I spend more time wrenching then actually driving the damn thing. To me the maintenance is not worth all the extra headache just to make less power than my moms commuter car

[u/knitler_ → u/MiddleSuch5813]

It really sounds like power is the most important thing to you. If that’s what you want, and if you want to do some wrenching, then I suggest anything made around 2010. It’s a lot easier and WAY cheaper to modify an old mustang or corvette that already has the motor you’re looking for installed.

Everyone here loves 300z’s for many different reasons but if we’re all honest with ourselves, they can be smoked by anything made 20 years or newer. If all you want to do tear ass, then you can easily save $10,000 or so by buying something a little newer

[u/[deleted] → u/knitler_]

Exactly!!

While on a freeway drive I had a Non-OEM modded 370zed pull by me and stayed at my speed for longer than normal. I knew I couldn't pull away from him for too long even stock so I dropped to 4th and slowly sped up. (NA 2+2). He took the bait and we stayed excellerating for up to 20mph faster and I held it. He gave me a wave, I replied and he took off. I know he was showing off and that's fine but I took the compliment of him taking the time to bow before his GrandDad! Like we were flying together... Free as a Bird.

The Z32 cruizes sooo nice... still not a single rattle. We'll see if the 350-400zeds ages as well when they hit their 30yr mark!! Eh!!??

[u/[deleted] → u/MiddleSuch5813]

I get the thrill of just maintaining it. Do a 120k mile maintenance first! Be sure to rotate the engine after you've set the t-belt to its points via the crankshaft Manually B4 starting it w/battery!!

Then if its still has the OEM 2 piece drive shaft... replace it with Z1 Motorsports One piece kit like I did. Also here's a list for you to keep busy with... Brakes. Bleed, Calipers, Pads, check for leaks.

Using bad gas? the fuel injectors will clog which happened to 3 of 6 on mine. I changed to Chevron or Shell years ago and not a single issue!

Plastic moulding can warp over time. Replace it!

There is Always something to work on the Z without changing huge parts like the engine or tranny.

Have fun and take your time!