Hi guys, As of recently I've given up on my VG30DE as I've had way too many issues with the NA version of my 300. From timing belts snapping to cam shaft bearing dying this motor has unfortunately been one of the weaker engines to leave nissan. Within the next few months I will have a full license and I've seen a few 300's with an RB25DET and I've come across a few sites from the states that sell conversion kits for the mounts. I'm eager to get this done ASAP but I want it done properly. The main idea of the post is to get some advice from the pro's to see what I need and where I can acquire these items. I'm pretty mechanically minded growing up with a mechanic/panel beater as a dad so I'm not afraid to try this on my own (although I know some things are unrealistic to think I could do at home). I love having the Z and I can't let it, it's unique and I don't want to be driving another skyline or silvia, so why not make it a bit more different. Thanks for the help
Mate all of those things can happen due to lack of maintenance. If you want something to work without needing service go buy a 7MGTE, you can let the belt snap, push it home, put on a new belt and off you go again. Can't do that with a RB nor VG. On a serious note, put a VG30DETT in and be done with it. Easier, bigger, more torque, look after it and it'll love you long time.
I would tend to agree with Mike, the timing belt snapping is a typical result of poor maintenance. To suggest the VG30 engine is weak is a ridiculous statement, as there are plenty of examples still running strong since 1989.
I know that major problems can discourage your enthusiasm, however, don't kid yourself that an RB25DET transplant will leave you with "still owning a Z32". Replace a Lion's heart with one from a Jack-Rabbit(and tell me if you still have a Lion). I think not!!!
I knew that the note of maintence would come up after stating my odd problems with a VG30 but these issues have come down to just dumb luck. The timing belt snapped after a major service had been done (water pump, timing belt, tensioner etc) and I have maintain the car meticulously since I have owned it, never ticked more than 50km over 5000km for standard servicing, have always done weekly checks on all fluids and electronics (seeing as a previous owner hacked into the wiring extensively), so it's safe to say maintence has never been a factor to being into account when an issue has occurred. But on the matter at hand, sticking with a converstion or any RB what would need to be done
There is one member on this forum who bought a 300zx with the conversion and engineering certificate. He pulled the engine to sell it off. Someone might put you intouch with him. There might be some customised parts you can pick up. Engine mounts, wiring harness, etc. But there are some members who have done the 6 litre conversion, why don't you check that out.
Timing belts generally dont just break like that for no reason, was this a genuine Nissan belt? If so it is highly likely the tensioner was set incorrectly by whoever did the 100k service.
That and an rb25 in a z32 will be about as slow as an Na. Stock they only pump out 130rwkw. They need a bit of work to be decent and even then they dont compare to a vg30...
