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More Slicktop Love: Kevin’s 300zx

Filed under: Featured Cars and Projects,Maintenance,Performance
by Alvin G @ 1:09 am on December 24, 2014

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Kevin M visited Z Car Garage last year for a new clutch/flywheel, JWT POP charger air filter, routine maintenance items and new WORK wheels on his beautiful Slicktop 300zx. Although the XD9 wheels were a definite upgrade aesthetically, a slight drop in ride height would do wonders for its stock suspension “off-road” stance.  We were happy to see Kevin return in October to upgrade the suspension and install a bunch of other goodies!

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To dial in a lower ride-height and firm up the ride we installed Stance coil-overs. While coil-overs were being installed we also replaced several suspension parts that were either worn or could be upgraded like Z1 front control arms and SPL T/C rods:

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New steering rack bushings:

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Shown below is the modest ride-height drop that looks great but remains functional especially for those treacherous San Francisco roads.

Before/After:

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Before:

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After:

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Stillen sway bars round out the suspension upgrades:

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Peeking behind the lovely spokes of those WORK wheels is a Stoptech 332mm Big-Brake Kit with black calipers.

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The rear calipers were color-matched, and treated to Stoptech rotors with our favorite 309 pads:

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Here’s a few details that we admire Kevin for addressing: Window moldings and front cowl pieces! These are items often overlooked or neglected. With age/weathering window trim can eventually peel back and reveal bare metal underneath. The cowl can fade and crack. Fortunately ConceptZ makes a full replacement kit. We also replaced the A/C compressor and drier with new Nissan units:

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Here are before/after shots of the molding and cowl:

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Kevin’s slicktop Z is well-preserved with just the right amount of personal touches to make driving and owning one fun!


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