Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Keep working the issues Mike. I am enjoying the current, tho unconventional, engine swap threads.
I was thinking you would go with some sort of bolt in crossmember and possibly a roll cage to replace any frame stiffness if you felt it was needed. Seems like keeping a portion of the factory x member means your solution will be a welded one.
Cant wait to see how it all works out.
Dan

I understand why people are against cutting and I wouldn't do it to a nicer car. 68 1600s don't seem to be particularly sought after, and this particular example never had a future as concours restoration.

This journey is proving that this not going to be a great option for most people. I have an affinity for the MZR/Duratec line. I do believe a well thought out NA Duratec with Miata 5 speed could be done without any cutting.

A fairly correct (but not 100%) white 68 1600 sold for 50k a few years back.

If your body hasn’t been hacked (yet) it could be put on a nice 68 2000 frame, the bodies are basically identical.

I’ve seen lots of chassis’s and bodies ruined by well intended swaps-unfortunately it’s a recurring theme.

“First do no harm” is really very appropriate with these collectible cars.

JT, maybe lighten up a little?! No need to be quite so judgmental, this forum is pretty accepting of anything Roadster. This is a personal choice, and there are certainly those here who are interested in what he is doing. He sure seems to have decent knowledge of what he is tackling and it is his call to modify his ride anyway he sees fit. We're better served commenting on his success, or what he might want to watch for or where we can help, rather than condemning his choices out of hand. I'd prefer the opportunity to learn rather than to say "I told you so".

Damarble - keep up the progress - I wouldn't do this to my roadster, but appreciate the adventure you are taking and admire the skill that you are putting into this project. Thanks for sharing and don't be deterred!

I have too much invested to change course now. I wouldn't get any enjoyment from an original spec car anyway.

Sorry, I was just trying to save another roadster.

JT68 wrote: ↑Mon Jan 18, 2021 2:17 pm Sorry, I was just trying to save another roadster.

I can appreciate your intentions.

Uno, I live near Bozeman, MT so a drive over in my 70 to Spokane would be worth it for a ride. Any chance once she's done?

70MTRoadster wrote: ↑Mon Jan 18, 2021 7:21 pm Uno, I live near Bozeman, MT so a drive over in my 70 to Spokane would be worth it for a ride. Any chance once she's done?

Are they ever done? I hope to have it roadworthy by summer. No cosmetic worked planned until it drives, so it might be ugly but I'm down to show her off.

I used to live in the Twin Bridges/Sheridan area.

After a little more adjustment I'm very happy with the placement and fit. Now on to other parts of the car while I wait for my engine to get here.

damarble wrote: ↑Mon Jan 18, 2021 2:32 pm

JT68 wrote: ↑Mon Jan 18, 2021 2:17 pm Sorry, I was just trying to save another roadster.

I can appreciate your intentions.

Can I just point out the insurance obstacles , your going to list it as a ? VSpl 311 ( very special 311).... they're kind of sticklers on the fraud aspect .
A co-worker parts mang. Built a 68 460 mustang , here in MO. over 3 yrs Then could not license it ...or in Ks .

redroadster wrote: ↑Tue Jan 19, 2021 11:48 am

damarble wrote: ↑Mon Jan 18, 2021 2:32 pm

JT68 wrote: ↑Mon Jan 18, 2021 2:17 pm Sorry, I was just trying to save another roadster.

I can appreciate your intentions.

Can I just point out the insurance obstacles , your going to list it as a ? VSpl 311 ( very special 311).... they're kind of sticklers on the fraud aspect .
A co-worker parts mang. Built a 68 460 mustang , here in MO. over 3 yrs Then could not license it ...or in Ks .

I've done many engine swaps and it's never been a problem.

I had to count but I recall 14 engine swaps over 57 years in Oregon and Washington. Never had a problem.
Dan

You would since 1973 though, because the fuel setting federal crack down took place that year ...you need a federal certificate to adjust carb/ fuel ....heck chain saws are set , unadjustable since 2013 per feds

only obtainable through state inspector s office if you qualify as a dedicated fuel repair facility
But if a serious wreck happened with un allowed modified vehicles the insurance is void

Gee whiz... 1973???
I've done or been involved in about a dozen since then. Pretty sure some got wrecked pretty quickly. So far, no federal registration police have shown up.
I wouldn't be worried about ut.
Dan