Topic: Newb: Datsun 720, start of 3RZ swap

[Datsun 720]

We'll, I have an 82 Datsun 720 pickup that has Toyota axles and quite a custom lift. Had a 22r that had rings go out, so I picked up what I thought was a 22r from a guy in college station. Turns out, after install, and test starting it, it's an oil leaking POS 21ru. For any one that doesn't know.... We'll I'm too upset to politely explain it.
We'll I am rebuilding the 22r for a spare now and decided against putting it back in there due to the lack of power. Started at looking at other options. We'll, a 3rz just seems to be the fit for me.
So after a few more questions from the knowledgable on here from 3rz swamps. I am going to source one out and knock out a swap.
I'm super excited for this one. From hearing about all the experience with their rigs from mike, 4runner-rick and marlin. I want to just go down to my engine shop and buy a new one right now to start the swap.

If this iPad wasn't so hard to type on id do a full history of my rig. But that shall wait till later.

1982 Datsun 720
21ru
W56
Toyota axles
Detroit locker in front, Lincoln locker rear
4:10 gears
37 super swamper tsl

[Datsun 720 [OP]]

We'll I know a post is useless with out pics... But can't until i have 11 post? Bit of an arbitrary number... Oh well...
Guess i shall write more about the truck.
1982 Datsun king cab, 3rd gen RUF springs, grand wagoner 4404 springs in the rear, 119" wheelbase, ifs hub in front 3.25" wider, Tacoma calipers and rotors in front. Thing stops one a dime.... No sooner then that a small button.

Things in the future, long fields, 4.88's, rear disc conversion and a newer w56. The one I have has no 4th gear. Kinda a weird one to lose... Direct drive. So anyone near houston Texas let me know if you have spare toyota or Datsun parts...

[BigMike]

Looking forward to not only follow this conversion but to your comparison of the 3RZ-FE once you've got it all dialed in

Sounds like a really cool truck. If you don't live in California, Virgina, or New York, then I'm sure the conversion process will go more smoothly

Regards,
BigMike

[old runner]

Sounds like a cool truck. I can't wait to watch another one of these swaps. The more I see the more motivated I get to start mine.

BigMike, what's the issues with motor swaps in VA? I haven't heard about any problems.

[BigMike]

I've just heard that NY, VA, and CA have the most strict automobile laws.

[Datsun 720 [OP]]

Yea, I am thinking the 3rz will feel like a big block compared to this 1.9 liter I got in it now. On 33's, on the freeway- flat ground- I jump from 'about to blow up, 3rd' to 'great I gotta down shift 4th' the entire time. It's RIDICOULOUS. Especially when the speed limit is 75mph. And I think I am only doing 50-55mph. Says something when a Prius passes you, and flips you off.... Right now I am trying to find the best route to source a motor.
I have an engine builder here that has em brand new, or rebuilt. But then I'd have to find harness and ecu, and belly housing.  I tried to find a full truck on CL but damn... Talk about high mileage. 200k plus... For like $3k... So, I am looking into insurance auctions. Have to wait to hear back whether my buddy has a spare license or not. Found some nice tacomas and 4runners with 50-100k miles for super cheap. Rear ended, or minimal side damage.

[kneedownnate]

Great idea!  My first truck was a 720, and while it was a neat and fun little rig, it had no clearance, terrible suspension, and a grey market z20 engine.  Only really good thing about it, other than being dead reliable, was a much better exhaust note than any toyota I've had.

21ru is a terrible engine, too.  Had one in an 83 toyota and it'd barely get out of it's own way and couldn't hold 65 on the freeway on flat ground.

Post some more so we can see some pics!

[Datsun 720 [OP]]

Yea, a sas fixed the clearance issue. And the 21ru was a weekend fix. Pulling it out and going bigger. My z22 came out with 310k miles on it. Dropped it straight into another truck and it is still running to his day. That motor is indestructible.

[kneedownnate]

I still don't see any pics!  Curious to see the clearance gained if you were to ditch the divorced case

[Datsun 720 [OP]]

I ditched the divorced transfer case a couple years ago. I have been running Toyota drivetrain. I am almost flat belly minus the driveshafts. so as far as clearance, there is plenty of it.