merry christmas guys! I just had a question for all of you Z drivers out there. I blew my transmission the other day, and I am going to replace it. I was initially going to replace it with the stock 4 spd., but I have had people suggest the 5 spd. 280Z transmission instead. I understand that for racing, a 4 spd. would be the best way to go, because I can rev the engine higher before shifting. If any of you can give me any ideas why a five speed transmission would be better, please let me know, since I will be pulling/installing the transmission by tomorrow.

 

The 5-speed will give you better top end. And a lot better gas mielage. Also you wont wear out your motor as fast. Basically a 4 speed is great for slaloms but sucks for daily driving. Now the 5-speed can still slalom great but also gives you a higher top end, and allows you motor to run lower RPM,s on the freeway. I have owned 13 Z,s some with 4-speed and some with 5-speeds, I would not have another 4 speed. If you want a better performance 5 speed get the T-5. If you want a tranny to be able to race and daily drive and have limited funds get a 5-speed out of a Z of a 77 datsun pickup. I had a 77 Pickup trsnny in my 70 240Z and the gear selection was awesome. 1st is really good for off the line but maxs out at about 22 MPH. My 78Z 5 speed goes to almost 35. But 5th gear is a lot higher. I could run 80 MPH in my 240Z at about 2700 RPM. My 78Z does it at about 3200 RPM. The conversion is pretty easy. You just have to change the gear boxes from the truck tranny to a Z tranny. The rest is up to your clutch and flywheel.
Good luck
I hope this helps you out.
Shane