To V8 or not to V8? That is the question...
 

Hey Guys,
I've been around this forum for a little bit; mainly for research and wasting time. I had an 2011 Base a few years ago but had to sell due to life issues. However, I have purchased a rebuilt title 2009 Sport to turn into a project.

Due to the accident, I have to replace the driver side "Side radiator core support" and "Front side member connector assembly" (see the pics). I have removed everything forward of the engine. With this being said, I am trying to decide whether to remove both sides and just fab a tubular structure to hold the bodywork and new and improved radiator (or possibly v-mounted with an intercooler). Should I just use the factory pieces or fab a tubular structure?

http://i.imgur.com/aKLnfl3h.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/eP8eIrzh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Tf9ERDlh.jpg

The question I really want you guy's opinion on is whether I should just keep the VQ37 or swap it out for a VK56? My goal for this car is most likely going to be a track car. However, I think I still want to learn and participate in drifting events. The track in Summit Pointe in WV hosts both drifting and circuit racing. I am not looking to rush this build and have means to fabricate parts (expertise is another :D). I really want to go the V8 route. NA for now and maybe FI in the future. What do you guys think?

http://i.imgur.com/a4PyG9Nh.jpg

I think it would be more beneficial going the LS V8 route as tge VK56 is known to he a pretty heavy engine and might throw off the balance of the car

Yes but the LS has been swapped into so many different things, I almost despise the idea (not the engine). But you do make a point. From the information I have, a VK weights around 430 minus flywheel/clutch and the VQ weights around 350 (I don't know if either engine is wet, dry, has access. or not, etc.). A fully dressed LS will be about 500lb on the dot. I cant imagine by choosing either V8 engine that it will make much or a difference. They are still going to add about approx 80lb to the front of the car.

I am sure I could make up some of that weight removing systems I don't need.

Talking to Chris Forsberg at zdayz he was telling us how a vk56 swap led into his shop having to cut the strut towers and extending them out to actually fit the motor in the 370. It will be a lot more expensive than you think.

Wow! Really?! I can see why with the pic of Josh Coote's Z (HIGHLIGHT – JOSH COOTE’S 370Z V8 | STREET COVER). I'm sure he didn't modify his shock towers to fit the VK. Forsberg's team most likely wanted the extra space. I would love to get the engine to see the fitment for myself.

It's only money...

Just Do It! :driving:

Ha! You only live once, right? I don't have any projects right now and need something to occupy my time. I'm going to attempt to engineer some mounts for this swap. I don't know if anybody else has done that already.

Hm... Possibly then. Looks like a really tight fit though. Curious to see how they made the headers to fit

No headers in that car at the time ... just a dummy assembly to get the engine into the engine bay ........

Requires significant tin-surgery to create space for headers ... IMHO will require a fabricated tube-frame to carry it.

Well in that case, you're going to need some research... and money haha

If you have never drifted before don't bother with an engine swap at this point.
It will take a lot of seat time before you outgrow the 37. Spend that money on entering as many events as possible.
I've been drifting for a few years now and I've just started building a 370z. I'll be sticking with NA for a while as well. Turbo down the track probably.

Well I send Josh a message via FB to inquire as to his header fitment and pics. I will post them with his permission when/if he sends them. He is Australia so idk what the time difference is.

I think I may call up MA Motorsport and see if they have Chris Forsberg's Z there and if so, can I come take a look at the engine fitment. MA is like 30 min away from me.

One of the guys from MA lurks on the forum sometimes. If he takes a peek here... give us some insight :tup:

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