Dear Zcarblog readers, it’s been a busy year and we are catching up on blog posts. Please enjoy our belated race reports from October and November.

WE LOVE RACING! Z Car Garage attended two events with Classic Sports Racing Group (CSRG): the Charity Challenge at Sonoma Raceway 10/2 and the CSRG Finale at Thunderhill Raceway 11/4. We raced and supported several client’s Datsun 510s running in the B-Sedan Group (John Morton Cup). Everyone had a blast, enjoy our race report with in-car video and photos below.

  

CSRG Charity Challenge

Z Car Garage Supports Six Datsun 510s!

 

The 19th Annual CSRG Charity Challenge was held on October 1-2 and we had one of our largest ZCG client groups with 6 B-Sedan 510 race cars. It is our pleasure to bring more enthusiasts into the world of vintage racing. Z Car Garage trackside services include full race support and car-preparation to make client’s race days seamless and worry-free so they can focus on driving. Before a race weekend we confirm that your car is running well and make necessary adjustments while on the chassis dyno:

 

#88 Todd Rueppel

Todd had his first Z Car Garage trackside support experience with us at the Laps For Laguna event!

 

#7 Kelvin Tse

Kelvin and his brother Kenny are regular ZCG trackside support clients…

  

#71 Ed M

Ed M is also a regular ZCG trackside support client, we also prepare his Porsche 911 for vintage events!

  

Gabe’s B-Sedan. Full report on our race preparation of this 510 soon!

  

Kelvin’s Ex-Ted Gruner TransAm 510, driven by his brother Kenny:

 

#7 Rob Fuller

ZCG owner Rob Fuller in the Bay Area Datsun Dealers tribute car

     

Enjoy this video of the B-Sedan Datsuns in action at the Charity Challenge with photos and race recap from Rob below:

 

Rob recaps the Charity Challenge B-Sedan races:

“Everyone had a great time at the Charity Challenge. Gabe unfortunately had an engine failure, but before that he was putting down some good times. The Tse brothers Kelvin and Kenny did really well and Ed was rocking and rolling. In the B-Sedan class I had really good racing with Parker McKean in his Alfa Romeo. The group wasn’t as large as it usually is, but still fun!”

 

“Another mechanical was in the afternoon race where Parker got a really good start but I noticed my 510 was down on power. Coming out of Turn 10 I noticed my temperature gauge was higher than I’d ever seen it. Pulled in and unfortunately I had a failed head gasket. So, double mechanicals (IMSA Z, below) for me. Very rare but still had a great time racing with the group.”

Photo by Kevin Gray

The 2023 Nissan Z as Pace Car!

 

Z Car Garage has been fortunate to spend some time with the 2023 Nissan Z prior to its public reveal. We asked Nissan if they would lend us the New Z for a good cause at the Charity Challenge and they happily obliged with a Performance model in Two-Tone Ikazuchi Yellow TriCoat / Super Black:

Photo by Josel Cobangbang

Rob was happy to wheel the New Z around the track:

“One of the coolest things about this years’s Charity Challenge was that Nissan lent us the new Z for a pace car and charity rides. We loved seeing Nissan’s new sports car before its release leading the field of vintage cars in every run group. Even the pace car driver was super stoked. In its 19th year the Charity Challenge has raised millions for children’s charities and they allowed me to be a driver on Sat/Sun to give 4-5 rides which included a warm-up lap, race lap and cool-down lap.”

Photo by Bryan Delohery

 

“I really enjoyed driving the new Nissan Z at speed, granted it certainly wasn’t at 10/10ths but I was to able entertain riders that donated for charity. It did really well and it is powerful, and I gotta tell you all weekend long there was crowd around that new Z car. I really appreciate Nissan believing in us..bringing both the new and old sports cars together and thank them for their support. Can’t wait to have our own 2023 Z at Z Car Garage.”

 

Enjoy this video with in-car action from the New Z with Rob Fuller giving charity rides around Sonoma Raceway:

 

The #49 Joel Anderson IMSA GTU 240Z

 

Rob also raced the #49 Joel Anderson IMSA GTU Datsun 240Z for the first time at Sonoma Raceway:

“My IMSA car has pretty good history at Sears Point (now Sonoma Raceway); it came from the Bondurant School and actually held a record there. This was my first time behind the wheel of the Z at this track and unfortunately we had transmission issues. On Sunday’s race I was 3rd in Group 8 against an IMSA Z and 911. Both drivers were fast. We had made some changes to our Z between Sat/Sunday so I was excited for the big feature race. On lap 3 I had sheared the roll pin in 3rd gear so it would no longer go in to 3rd. Exited at the carousel, to avoid contact with other racers. We look forward to developing the IMSA car further.”

 

The Charity Challenge was fun with the usual group of folks, Tank, Meghan, lots of snacks and good times. We are excited for next year’s event!

 

The CSRG Finale

On November 4-6, Classic Sport Racing Group (CSRG) hosted the finale of The John Morton Cup. The 3-race series, named after legendary Datsun racer John Morton features the Historic B&C Sedan class battling at Thunderhill Raceway.

 

Every year CSRG ends with the finale event at Thunderhill and it’s frequently missed due weather/rain conditions. We always try to make it out for the club. It’s a fun-filled weekend that is super laid-back with a great dinner party at the end.

The Return of #72 Tom Dockery

 

We have helped Tom build and prepare his Ex-Norm Balzer/Koobation 510 for several years. Unfortunately the car was wrecked at Sonoma Raceway back in March from oil on the track. Z Car Garage rebuilt the 510, making a triumphant return to last year’s Velocity Invitational event with Rob Fuller as driver. For the CSRG Finale however, it would be Tom’s first time back at the helm of his very own B-Sedan 510:

   

“I came into the race weekend with a lot of apprehension. Rob had shown the Vintage world what the car can do in the right hands and now it was my turn to put up or shut up, at least that was part of what was playing in my head. Also playing the background was my fear of damaging the car. So many people had given so much time, priority and resources, I had a lot of angst around preserving its current condition.”

 

“But what really played out once behind the wheel was the loss of Race mentally/conditioning. Physically I was all there and even though there was some proper racing line adjustment needed, the biggest issue was getting comfortable with the car’s REAL limits. It was a head game for sure. I spent Friday and Saturday working with Rob to better understand this and by Sunday, I could start to see a difference. On Sunday I was able to trim 4-5 seconds off my lap times from the previous days. I am still a little off and like getting fit again on my bike, I have to continue to get fit behind the wheel. It took me almost 3 three years to get to the front half of the racing pack, now I have to accelerate that level of conditioning in 2023.”

  

“As always, the ZCG team support at the event went well beyond just the car. Had a blast throughout the 3-day event.”

Thanks Tom, we were proud to see you back on the track! Enjoy this video with in-car action from Tom’s Ex-Balzer/Koobation Datsun 510:

Gabe’s Datsun 510

Gabe R. has been an avid track day weekend warrior for five years and we will highlight our preparation of his B-Sedan 510 soon. Let’s hear his race report from the CSRG Finale:

“I was beyond excited to get some legitimate wheel to wheel action after acquiring a Datsun 510 last September. Unfortunately, mine is a chapter in the long and storied history of the “race ready” race car. In my first event at last year’s Charity Challenge I found the car to be extremely driver friendly, and was even able to put down a few pretty quick laps. That pretty much sums up the good parts. On the not so good side, in my second session of the weekend, the gearshift lever broke off in my hand going into turn seven. In my third session, a spark plug wire popped off the distributor and ended my session prematurely. And immediately before my last session of the weekend my starter motor died, causing me to miss it entirely.”

 

“Fortunately for me, the vintage racing community is a wonderful group of friendly, helpful people. Over the course of the weekend, I was lent a hand by the likes of Larry Oka, Jim Froula, and the Z-Car Garage crew. My second weekend out was at this year’s David Love Memorial, and my fortunes did not improve. Not realizing how quickly Hoosiers wear out, combined with my car’s unfortunately welded diff, I spent the majority of my time on track over the weekend just trying to prevent the car from snap oversteering into a wall. Even worse, I blew a head gasket in the first session on Saturday, At that point, I sent the car down to Z Car Garage to have Rob’s team transform it into a proper competitive car. Engine rebuild, limited-slip differential, suspension overhaul, new clutch, new transmission, as well as a slew of other upgrades and improvements have transformed the car into a beast.”

 

“Finally equipped with a seaworthy vessel, I spent the last two CSRG events — the Charity Challenge, and the season Finale, being supported by the Z Car Garage guys, culminating in a fantastic weekend at the season finale. With the support of Rob and his crew I ran the 4th fastest time of the weekend – behind only Troy Ermish, Rob Fuller, and Jim Froula, and finished 3rd in the Sunday feature race despite starting in 7th due to a spin in the Saturday feature race. Most of all, I had an absolute blast hanging with Rob and his entourage. Rob’s infectious positive attitude makes it impossible to have anything but a good time.”

Enjoy this video of Gabe putting in work at Thunderhill and achieving a personal record!

 

“From their impeccable car preparation standards, to their attention to every detail, to helping their drivers get prepared to head out on track, as well as Rob‘s exceptionally helpful driving tips Z-Car Garage consistently exceeds my expectations in every way. I absolutely cannot wait to get back out on track with Z-Car Garage in 2023!”

Privateer Spirit

 

Special shoutout to our friend and Datsun Historian Glenn Chiou raced his Ex-Finn/Harris U2.5L Trans-Am ’68 510. It’s worth noting that not unlike privateers of the period, Glenn builds his race cars, maintains and manages racing efforts himself. Not an easy task so we applaud his work ethic. Glenn builds some beautiful Datsuns and we will highlight this 510 soon as it features our  Z Car Garage CV Axles and dyno tuning.

 

Rob in the BADD 510

For the CSRG finale the ZCG crew included Rob, Tom Dockery and Gabe R:

“Both Gabe and I had mechanical failures in last event’s Chartiy Challenge. My engine lasted two seasons at full-tilt boogie and it had a compromised head gasket so my friends at Rebello Racing were able to refresh it in between events so the BADD car was ready to rock. Gabe’s engine had a pretty horrific failure and Rebello was also able ot get him back on the track too. Special thanks to the team at Rebello Racing including Dave, Mark and Brian for giving us the best hp/tq that we could ask for and keeping us on the track. I was driving the Miata in vintage Spec- Miata group and BADD car in Group 9 John Morton group B-sedan.”

 

“Tom and Gabe were doing great. Gabe is really picking up the pace. We did some downloads and he is getting fast, finishing on podium in the feature race. Tom was just getting reacquainted with the car and he was really stoked to be able to do well at the end of the season. Unfortunately Josh and Troy Ermish were not in the run group so there were not many people to run with. I started in the back it was a challenge and also fun to go through traffic. Another highlight was being in group 8 with my Miata amongst the big-boy v8 cars it was an awesome vintage race in the rain.” 

Enjoy this in-car video of Rob in the BADD 510 at Thunderhill:

A different perspective: Steve Walker also posted this cool in-car video of Rob and the from his BMW 2002:

 

CSRG hosted a Saturday night night banquet and it did not disappoint. They had folks dress up in costumes since it was close to halloween. Ross Lindell dressed up as Rob Fuller and it was quite funny. Side note: Rob actually did SCCA drivers school in the Randy Pobst Miata that Ross brought to race. The evening included  awards, and great conversations recalling the highs and lows of another year of vintage racing gone by. Can’t wait for next year!

 

Join us for the 2023 Vintage Racing Season!

Z Car Garage is amped for more racing this year. Here is list of events we will be attending in 2023, including CSRG and SVRA . Please join us!

March

March  3^rd to the 5^th    SVRA  Thunderhill

March 24 to 26^th          CRSG   Sonoma

April

April 27^th to 30^th           SVRA   Sonoma

May

May 4^th   to 7^th               SVRA   Laguna Seca

June

June  23rd to 25^th           CSRG   Laguna Seca

August

August 12-13                    Monterey Pre-Reunion
August 16-19                    Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

September

Sept 8^th  to 10^th              CSRG   Sonoma

Novemeber

Nov  3^rd to 5^th                 CSRG   Thunder hill

Nov 10^th to 12^th              Velocity Invitational

 

More photos in the gallery below and special thanks to contributing photographers Meghan Fuller, Josel Cobangbang, Bryan Delohery, Blaine Olguin, Ann Devor, and Linda Williams. We can’t forget to thank the ZCG crew for keeping us safe for both events: Joshua Corwin, Meghan Fuller, Nick Filip, The Corwins we couldn’t have done it without you!

 

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Vincent S’ 1973 Datsun 240Z has a long history with Z Car Garage having received upgrades like our Z Car Garage Big-Brakes, Z Car Garage CV Axles, full suspension refresh and dyno tuning.

 

The Z came back to us in March of 2022 for more power, drivetrain and interior improvements. Before we explore these upgrades, let’s take a look at how Vincent found the Z car of his dreams…

Z Destiny

 

Vincent: “I’m from Le Mans, France and attended the 24 hours race, or Le Mans Classic numerous times. In 2016, I was on the Le Mans racetrack with the car I had then (a Lotus Elise 220), and one of my very best friends, Fabrice. That day, we saw a gorgeous blue, track prepared 240Z that we loved. I took several pics and videos of it.”

 

A few months later, Vincent saw our friend Dave Scholz’ video on Petrolicious and found his Z highly inspirational. In Summer 2019, Vincent’s job offered him the opportunity to move to San Diego for a few years and he decided this is where he would search for his own Z car, and eventually send it back to France. It truly is a small world, and our client Brian P had listed his ’73 S30 on Bring a Trailer in September of 2000. Vincent saw the Z, bid and won the auction!

 

Vincent: “I bought my Z on BaT, from Brian P, who had Z Car Garage restore it. He loved his car and had to sell it, but the modifications he wanted to do included a Rebello stroker with Mikunis, etc…Living in the US for only 3 years, I decided to continue the story with Rob, and the Z is now what I wanted and what Brian wanted (I’m still in touch with him). Knowing that I was going to relocate to FR, I also became a member of the Datsun Club of France. ZCG was highly recommended by the group, and is a worldwide reference for Zs! The posts on zcarblog.com with all the pics, etc….are also great to see how the work is done.”

 

Back for the Z Car Garage Touch

While previous owner Brian P was a little bummed about selling the car, he was stoked that Vince shared his vision and dream to take it the rest of the way. We spoke with Vince and discussed all the upgrades he wanted to do, knowing it had to be completed before his expatriation June 30, 2022. The Z arrived at Z Car Garage from SoCal on March 1, and it was so good to see it again:

 

Drivetrain

 

When Brian was coming to ZCG it was during the “Butters” phenomenon: our clients wanted a similar setup for their own S30s. Our 1971 shop demo Z Mrs. Butters proudly features our Z Car Garage Big-Brakes, Z Car Garage CV Axles, ZCG Heat Shield, 6-speed transmission, full KW suspension (releasing soon) and 3.2L engine with triple-Mikuni induction. While Vince’s Z had the upgraded brakes, CV axles and suspension, the drivetrain was not touched.

We began drivetrain upgrades by replacing the stock L24 with twin-SUs/4-speed transmission with a Rebello 3L, triple-Mikuni induction and KA24 5-speed transmission. ZCG supplied the ph44 Mikuni carbs (jetted) with velocity stacks, ZCG mesh filters, Harada intake manifold, ZCG fuel rail and all of the things we do on the intake/exhaust side of the engine. Spark is provided by an MSD6AL ignition box. We also installed what every triple-carbed L-series needs: a ZCG Heat Shield!

 

A Moroso competition baffled oil pan prevents oil starvation with high cornering loads:

 

The Fujitsubo exhaust system from exhaust header to muffler was installed. These newer units have better fitment.

 

With the engine out we had our man William repaint the engine bay. ZCG engine bay services followed with freshly plated and plumbed hydraulic lines, hoses and general clean-up:

 

The engine bay turned out great and Vince wanted a red, powdercoated wrinkle valve cover. More photos of the engine bay details in the gallery below!

 

Driveline Upgrades

With the 3L engine in we focused on the transmission and rear axle. To handle the power from the 3L engine we replaced the stock 4-speed with a Nissan KA24 (FS5W71C) transmission. This was a common swap (before the CD009a came to market) performed by modifying a 280Z L-series bell housing. When we upgraded the transmission we also installed a JWT HD clutch with aluminum flywheel:

 

Helping put the power down efficiently is an OS Giken LSD. The R180 houses a 4.11 R&P and the assembly is setup in-house (by Joshua Corwin):

 

Our Z Car Garage CV Axles help transmit power to the ground and ensure smoother operation compared to your standard half shafts. We have over 200 CV axle kits on customer cars and we are stoked with all of the positive feedback.

  

Stock half shafts (L) and Vincent’s ZCG units, set #00295. Also visible are the T3 control arms:

     

Dyno Tuning

 

Rob dyno tuned the Rebello 3L engine making a stout 239hp/211tq to the wheels:

 

Enjoy the L-series music in this extended video of Vincent’s Z including dyno runs, test drive with Rob and drive-bys:

ZCG Big-Brakes

We are proud to have several of our ZCG products on Vincent’s 240z. We installed our Z Car Garage Big-Brakes (for small wheels) which have the been standard on numerous ZCG builds.

    We removed the stock brakes and installed our ZCG Big-Brake kit.  We also installed a full coil-over (Koni) suspension from Techno Toy Tuning. T3 finishes the suspension in our signature color and we really appreciate Gabriel and his staff. They make some of the best suspension parts out there for Z cars.

  

ZCG Big-brakes and T3 coil-overs replacing stock setup:

     At the rear, the factory drum brakes were replaced with our ZCG Big-Brakes. New OEM Nissan master cylinder and Factory handbrake functionality IS retained!

   

Panasport Wheels

Complementing the new coilover suspension on Vincent’s Z are 16×7 Panasports and Hankook R-S3 tires in 225/50/16. We wanted the look and feel of Mrs. Butters Z so we obsessed over ride height until we got it exactly where he wanted it. The Z looks fabulous from any angle:

   

Recaro Seats

The stock seats were replaced with Euro-spec RECARO Pole Position in leather:

 

Driving is Believing

Vincent visited Z Car Garage for the first time when he picked up his Z on 6/22. Here is Rob showing Vincent the engine bay and going on a test drive:

  

Vincent:  “Rob and team ended up working 24/7 in the last few days so that this could happen. I picked it up on the 22 of June, early morning, when I believe I also met Alvin. It was amazing to meet you, Rob, and ZCG ! I then drove down the Pacific Coast Highway, to drop the auto in LA, where the logistics/freight company is. They finally put it on a boat 3 months later (and I now live in FR).”

 

Vincent was impressed with the upgrades from Z Car Garage:

Vincent:“What’s it like to drive??! Brian already had the brakes and axles done, so all good there. With the engine, gearbox, clutch, exhaust done + Recaros, it’s a complete different car to drive. Much more lively, direct, raw…the Recaros filter less than the original seats, but are now on par with the global performance and grip of the Z. I feel much more connected to the road.”

 

We are happy to report that the Z is now in France! Vincent picked it up in Le Havre (north of FR) and drove it all the way to Lyon (South east, where he resides). The engine started right away, and trip was a pleasure. He sent us some great photos (above):

Vincent:“Hey Alvin, I believe only 750 240Zs were ever sold in France back in the day…so you can imagine the looks I got! Some people thought it was a Ferrari 275 or a Type E…So grateful to Rob and the awesome job he’s done on the auto, and Brian, to whom I bought it, can be reassured…The Z’s being taken care of!”

 

Since owning the Z Vincent found out that the Blue Z he saw in Le Mans belongs to another member of the Datsun club of France, David Donne. Vincent also has been in touch with Dave Scholz, via Instagram who has been super friendly and helpful.

We enjoyed working with Vincent:

Rob: “All in all Brian would be super proud. Car was scheduled to be put on a container to go back to France and we made it with 1 day to spare. Huge thanks to Brian and Vincent. Super excited about this car and my only regret is that he doesn’t live local so we could enjoy it together.”

Thank you for entrusting us with your S30 Vincent and LONG LIVE THE Z!

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Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Z Car Garage! We hope you can find time to Enjoy The Ride over the holidays. Please note our hours of operation below:

We will be working Monday the 21^st  and Tuesday the 22^nd  of next week for the Thanksgiving Holiday

Closed Wednesday to Friday

The week before Christmas we will be working Monday December 19^th to Thursday December 22nd

Z Car Garage will be closed the week of December 26^th to December 30^th for our Annual Holiday Break

Returning to the office for 2023 on Tuesday the 3^rd of January

 Thank you!

 

  

 

At Z Car Garage we are fortunate to be a part of our client’s sports car journeys. We first met Derek Y in 2014 when we worked on his 2005 Infiniti G35 back. A few years passed by and he visited us with his latest Nissan, this 2015 GT-R:

 

The R35 had only 11k miles and ZCG installed a host of power upgrades from AMS, EcuTek, SpecialtyZ, Turbosmart and more. You can read about this work from 2019, including the E85 flex-fuel and exhaust upgrades all in this previous blog post.

 

More Power and a New Look

 

Derek latest visit was earlier this year for dyno tuning, interior items and AirLift installation. When it arrived at the shop this R35 sported a complete Varis Kamikaze-R Ver. 2 widebody “Super Sonic” kit and Varis Kamikaze-R Ver. 2 Vented Carbon hood. The Air Lift 3H air suspension strut kit was installed with polished 5 gallon tank.

 

We ran all of the air lines, checked ride height and clearances for the slick Advan R6 Candy Red wheels (20×11 +15 front – 20×12+20 rear) with Toyo R888R tires (305/35/20 Front – 325/30/20 Rear), more installation photos in the gallery below:

 

We also installed a new, Overtake 100-V Saikou Exhaust:

 

A few minor items like a new battery, TPMS sensors in the new wheels and a final health check for Derek’s VR30DETT…but first we performed a re-tune with Ecutek for even more power.  Our last dyno session yielded 612hp/604tq to the wheels and it left with 640hp/622tq. What’s impressive is that this remains a supercar that’s easy to to drive:

 

Enjoy these dyno runs:

 

Interior

 

Derek had several interior items for us to install including: Mines Steering Wheel, Nismo Cluster, Nismo cluster shroud and shiftter paddles:

 

Derek is happy with the latest upgrades to the R35:

“I have been going to Rob for a while now, he worked on my car october 2019 (bolt on and e85 work done) and again recently with a new tune and air suspension and some interior mods. The work is always great its making more power now and more responsive linear power.”

 

 

Here are the SpecialtyZ 3″ intakes and AMS front-mount intercooler being installed:

 

More engine bay work including the AMS crankcase breather setup, ID 1300cc injectors (plus DW fuel pump upgrade), Turbosmart BOVs and a SpecialtyZ Flex-Fuel kit:

 

AMS crankcase breather being plumbed:

 

Stock vs Turbosmart BOV:

 

On the lift, AMS cat-less downpipes are installed:

 

At first glance it is difficult to catch all of the power upgrades in the engine bay, Stock (L) vs Modified (R)

 

Derek also needed new tires so we mounted fresh Michelin Pilot Sport4S sized 245/40/20 and 285/35/ 20.

Dyno Tuning

Back in 2019 , Rob dyno tuned the GT-R using an EcuTek flash and Derek also received a USB dongle for datalogging. Baseline power was 495hp/446tq with final numbers of 612hp/604tq to the wheels on E85:

 

A few plots showing the tuning session: Baseline to 91 octane tune with gains of 65hp/93tq (Left), and the final E85 tune for even more gains of 52hp/51tq (Right):

 

Video of the R35 on the ZCG dyno:

 

Thanks for letting us work on your GT-R Derek and enjoy the boost!

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On Saturday, September 24 we attended the Tokyo Calling 2 event hosted by Breakfast Club Rally. Z Car Garage participated with a group of client cars and enjoyed a wonderful day of driving through the foothills of Northern California. The event also featured 200 Japanese classics and 90’s-era wonders to appreciate during the morning social gathering and rest stops. Enjoy our report with mega-photo gallery and video!

  

Breakfast Club Rally

 

The Breakfast Club Rally (BCR) started just over 2 years ago. What started out as a small group enjoying weekend drives blossomed into a full-on Cars and Coffee (still unofficial) meet just before rally participants head out according to run group. The monthly BCR is always free/open to all makes and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to enjoy the beautiful Northern California roads and scenery. You can see my previous BCR reports HERE!

 

The initial BCR Tokyo Calling event held back in March was a success. We did not want to miss this all-Japanese, mostly-vintage rally so I assembled a group of Z Car Garage clients and friends to participate in TC2. We left the shop at 6:30am heading to San Rafael, here is a preview of our cars:

 

Gary’s 1971 Datsun 240Z

Rob Fuller drove our client Gary’s S30 with the Datsunworks KN20 twincam cylinder head. Supporting the 3.1L engine are our Z Car Garage Big-Brakes, Z Car Garage CV Axles, Jenvey ITB EFI with Haltech Elite management, Nissan 6-speed CD009s transmission and OS Giken 4.11 LSD.

 

While ZCG has performed many tests with the KN20 engine this was the first time we were able to do a 300-mile trip and really wring its neck. It just keeps getting better and better…watch the video below and turn those speakers up!

Datsunworks in action

Vince’s 1973 Datsun 240Z

 

Vince’s 1973 Datsun 240z is Enjoying The Ride with our Z Car Garage Big-Brakes (for small wheels) and Z Car Garage CV Axles.  He scored this Z from our friends at Bring a Trailer and regularly drives on rally events.

Mrs. Butters

 

Leading the caravan was yours truly in Mrs. Butters, our Series 1 shop 240z. This Series 1 S30 features a 3.2L with triple-Mikuni induction, Z Car Garage Big-Brakes, Z Car Garage CV Axles, ZCG Heat Shield, 6-speed transmission and full KW suspension (releasing soon).

Jim’s 1971 Datsun 240Z

 

Jim’s 1971 Datsun 240z is now sporting a Rebello 3.2L with triple-Mikuni carbs on a Harada intake, Recaro Specialist seats, CD009a 6-speed transmission, our Z Car Garage Big-Brakes (for small wheels) and Z Car Garage CV Axles!

 

Linda’s 1972 Datsun 240Z

Linda Williams drove her 1972 Datsun 240Z OMS Pace Car Duplicate. Z Car Garage revived this historically-significant Z from its slumber to make it a nice driver for Linda while retaining its survivor status. She loves driving it everywhere.

 

Henry’s supercharged Nissan 370Z

Henry drove his Stillen-supercharged 370Z. This was his first time attending a vintage rally and he had a blast! Henry recently visited ZCG for a re-tune and upgrades, making even more power stay tuned for an update! Rolling photo by Gregory Veizades:

  

Mr. C, a 1970 Datsun 240Z

Our guest Herbert P piloted  “Mr. C”, our stock, one-owner Series 1 Z. We put some 14″ Panasports on this time as the stock hubcaps have a habit of coming off during spirited driving!

 

Our morning caravan of cars enjoyed cruising up I-280 through the Golden Gate Bridge. Nothing beats driving with fellow Z car owners!

 

Tokyo is Calling before the Rally!

 

Our crew arrived at the rally start in San Rafael and it was already filled with fabulous J-Tin. BCR hosted a “social gathering” from 8-9am (usually 1 hr) so we could take in all the glorious cars. The vibe was tremendous, and as usual it went by too quickly. Let’s go through some of the highlights, with more photos in the gallery below!

 

Tom K’s Nissan Fairlady Z432 stunned the crowd. This rare, RHD gem is powered by the unicorn-status S20 engine:

 

I am always on the lookout for Nissans and Datsuns, and roadsters always get my attention. There were at least 8 in attendance including two genuine 1967 2000s. One of the most sought after Datsuns, these “half-year” models were introduced mid-1967 offering a 5-speed transmission and 150hp twin-Mikuni carb’d 2L engine…hot stuff for the era.

Ian’s SRL is #601 (out of ~1000 cars) and it was fully restored years ago by Les Cannaday in San Diego. Ian is meticulous about maintaining this car, but it is no garage queen. The (655) Off-white paint with red interior is one of my favorites. Yes, it even sports a factory Nissan hardtop with all the stainless trim!

 

Our client Erik drove his hot-rod R16 stroker-powered ’70. We dyno tuned this little beast recently, check it out HERE:

  

There were handful of Datsun 510s in wagon and sedan form. Our client Jay installed a set of our Z Car Garage CV Axles on his Green 510. Jay is a hardcore rally driver (just completing the Faultline 500) and also brought his mint wagon with family! Check out his sweet set of Devil Shadow wheels:

   

Our very own Nick F drove his 510 wagon and went full rally-style with intercoms:

 

Back to Z cars, and with many cool examples like this pair of S30s with classy Campagnolo and 432s-style wheels:

 

Our client Kevin’s Slicktop Z32 on WORK XD9 wheels and Stoptech brakes. A pair of clean Zenki Z31 300ZX, one LS-powered:

 

Leo’s Nissan Pulsar GTi-R

 

We were pleasantly surprised to see Leo and his Nissan Pulsar GTi-R at Tokyo Calling 2. This RHD, JDM hot-hatch is known as “Baby Godzilla”, sporting all-wheel drive and an SR20DET drivetrain. What’s wild is that this Pulsar used to be owned by our very own Gary at Z Car Garage! Leo purchased it back in 2017 and drove it all the way from Reno, NV.

 

Leo is an avid Pulsar fan having owned several and he really kept this one in pristine condition. He added a few upgrades including Stoptech Big-Brakes. He ven kept the Z Car Garage license plate frame!

 

A pair of S13 240SXs:

 

It was great to see our R32 Skyline clients Mike’s R32 (TE37 wheels), Miles (Rays wheels) and Kurt W. (in his GC8 Subaru) and . All will be getting zcarblog udpates:

 

So many cool cars please check the gallery for more photos! Next, let’s check out some non-Nissan/Datsun action…

Kei Classics

Autozam AZ-1 and Suzuki Cappuchino mesmerizing the crowd with their size and neat features:

 

Honda

 
Honda was well-represented including late model DC2 Integras and S2000s. A few NSXs, CRXs and EF/EG hatches rounded out the display:

Toyota

 

Supra (A60 and A80) and even first gen MR2s, turbocharged Beams-powered Celica and AE86s!

    

Enjoy this walk-around of the pre-rally social hour at Tokyo Calling 2:

 

Trucks and Vans

Let’s not forget the Japanese classic trucks and vans!

 

The wildest car I found was this Nissan Leaf with motorcycle engine:

 

Rally On!

The rally started at 9am and I was tasked with leading our group. There was no cell phone reception but I was armed with a turn-by-turn rallye printout. I enjoyed hustling Mrs. Butters through the backroads:

 

One of the perks of BCR events is their team of professional photographers at various stages capturing epic rolling and detail shots so people can focus on enjoying the drive. I encourage you to visit each of these photographer’s photo albums to see shots of your rides: Alex Nibyt, Gregory Veizades, Everett Lederer, and Zack Hubbell.

   

Arriving at Point Reyes was another opportunity to see cars I missed at the starting point. Folks took a snack/coffee break here in the quaint town. I was just admiring each vintage ride cruise by…like this Nissan Figaro!

 

Henry’s 370Z and an FD RX-7

  

After chatting we resumed the rally. This final stage was my favorite with winding roads going through Petaluma. This is where the KW Suspension, ZCG Big-Brakes and 6-speed transmission in Mrs. Butters really shine. Every gear shift, squeeze of the throttle and confidence of the brakes makes for a sublime driving experience.

   

The rally concluded in Tomales. Total mileage for our San Jose crew thus far was 200 miles. BCR arranged for lunch at William Tell House as their clever motto is #DoneByNoon. The intersection here was yet another car show with J-Tin everywhere. It was a superb venue to enjoy cool cars and great company.

  

Our client Kevin’s Slicktop Z32

 

People got a kick out of the Behemoth:

 

Thanks BCR!

 

Many thanks to the organizers, we had a blast and I urge you to register for their next event, especially if you are in the South Bay area like me and want to see what driving bliss lies North.  Here are a few thoughts from Rob re-capping the Tokyo Calling 2 event:

“Loved TC2 and my favorite part is connecting with people, seeing their passion and all the other cool cars…I’m a huge Miata fan and NA/NBs were out in full force. Subaru XT…I really wanted one as a kid. Little fun fact…that rear end bolts into a Datsun 510. The Leaf with motorcycle engine was wild. Great to see our clients also on the drive. Got to see Leo and get reunited with the GTi-R, chat with Mike Young…”

“…Such a proud feeling of driving up 280 through the city and looking over to see Linda Wiliams in the OMS Pace Car, Vince S and Jim and Herb driving Mr.C. and Alex in his Sunny. The amount of community we have is tremendous. Loved how organized BCR is, so well thought out. The last 20+ years of my life I’ve been doing car meets/car adventures…the BCR guys got it down….from the registration stickers to rally directions. Little things like making sure there is enough room for folks at the meetup points…or always having clean restrooms available…these are details between enjoying yourself in a vintage car or not. The roads were incredible and scenery unreal. Sounds of L-series everywhere! Cant wait for next Tokyo Calling.”

 

 

The Drive Home

Our adventure was not over as we had to travel another 100 miles South to the shop. We caravanned back, traveling through the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and through San Francisco. I’m sure traffic had a field day with our group of Datsuns/Nissans:

 At the shop, Rob gave everyone rides in the Datsunworks-powered Behemoth. It was fun to see the permanent smiles on passengers’ faces after returning:

After a full day of driving Mr. C, our stock Series 1 240Z,  we gave Herbert the keys to take Butters out for spin:

    

Thank you to all of the Z Car Garage clients that made the journey with us. Huge thanks to BCR for extending their hospitality to our crew, everyone was thrilled. Here’s to the next rally and always, always #DoitInADatsun!

 

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