Rebuilding a 4ZE1

General engine, transmission or drive line questions including tuning questions for all engine types
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2ldohc
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Joined: Wed Sep 10, 2008 1:22 pm
Car(s): 1968 Isuzu Bellett Deluxe (Polynesian Blue), 1974 Datsun 240z, 1970 Datsun Fairlady SRL311, 1966 Prince Skyline
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Rebuilding a 4ZE1

Post by 2ldohc »

Very simple question to open for discussion...

Are there any things to watch out for when rebuilding a 4ZE1 rodeo engine? I'm missing a flywheel, alternator and a few other small bits but generally the engine looks to be in good condition. What should I look for? Are there any common flaws in these engines?

I've got new rings, bearings and seals coming but does anyone have any suggestions in regards to simple mods? Is porting these heads worthwhile? Shaving the head? Anything that anyone wants to share on the 4ZE1 would be much appreciated!

Cheers,
Ross.
1966 Prince Skyline GT-B
1968 PR20 Bellett Deluxe (flat lights)
1970 SRL311 Datsun Fairlady
1971 S30 Datsun 240Z - Race car
1972 S30 Datsun 240Z

For more info, articles and pictures visit http://GarageofAwesome.com.au
Tuomas
Posts: 14
Joined: Sat Sep 27, 2008 6:33 am
Car(s): Bellett 4d sedan '66, KB, 3x Trooper

Re: Rebuilding a 4ZE1

Post by Tuomas »

Check out the main bearing slot sizes. The factory sizes are printed on the oil pan seal surface of the block. If it says 11111, then it's ok to use aftermarket std or oversize bearings. If 12121, or so, you have to reuse the #2 and #4 bearigs, since they have different size slots on the block. Head casting #3 or greater isn't that crack prone. The early ones are poor. I've had to have one with #2 welded. I had it ported and shaved about 2mm too. Works fine with 1st oversize pistons in a Trooper. I even had a Calmini header and cam for a while. Saved them to be used in my Bellett later.
You need to glue the new rear crank seal. It's worth it. I know...

Tuomas
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2ldohc
Posts: 601
Joined: Wed Sep 10, 2008 1:22 pm
Car(s): 1968 Isuzu Bellett Deluxe (Polynesian Blue), 1974 Datsun 240z, 1970 Datsun Fairlady SRL311, 1966 Prince Skyline
Location: Adelaide, Australia
Contact:

Re: Rebuilding a 4ZE1

Post by 2ldohc »

Thanks Tuomas! Every bit of info I can glean before putting it back together is gold :)

I'll have a look and see what I have out there.

Cheers,
Ross.
1966 Prince Skyline GT-B
1968 PR20 Bellett Deluxe (flat lights)
1970 SRL311 Datsun Fairlady
1971 S30 Datsun 240Z - Race car
1972 S30 Datsun 240Z

For more info, articles and pictures visit http://GarageofAwesome.com.au
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