Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Hi guys, I’m new here. I’ve owned several 5 tens and Z and I picked up a roadster
I’m looking for a step-by-step instruction on how to put in an L series in there. The reason is I have several extra engines and lots of parts laying around between my other Datsun‘s. I know KA‘s are better Schwab. Try to keep the original one and rebuild it, but I don’t have the money. I’d rather have something I can drive and have fun in. I’m not looking for speed. I’m just looking for something that’s reliable and the L series I have in my 510 or daily drivers. I just have no idea how to put the engine in. I reached out to Stan but he’s in his 80 or 90s and he doesn’t have any of the information anymore he said he wrote it down so my hope is to find someone that has done an engine swap and can give me a step-by-step where to buy the motor mount or how to make it what it takes exactly. Thanks again for all your help. Yes, I searched this whole website and there was one gentleman that did an inch swap, but he referred back to the instruction that Stan had which is not available.

Here is a wtite-up from 2008. You might try Jimmy's email.

https://www.311s.org/pmwiki-311/pmwiki. ... n.L-series

Steve

I have none of the requested information but as I recall, the biggest problem is that the L series engines are too tall & require a rather large scoop on the hood.

Peace, Pat

Put in correctly there is no problem with clearance, the L engine leans to the passenger side and has ample room under the hood.

Where in California are you located?
If a step-by-step guide is not obtainable maybe a local owner can you let you see their L-Series swap in-person.

We have a few here in the SF Bay Area, for example this is Hotep's SRL with an L-Series., and like Premo mentioned when installed correctly the stock hood fits fine:



Could also put you in touch with Ed and his hot-rodded L20b:

This is amazing!
I’ve been looking for months for some help with this!
I’d love the Datsun community!
I’m right here in San Jose
Let me know who I can contact and connect up I would be greatly appreciated
Thanks again guys Paul

Paul,
The frame under the engine has to be modified to facilitate oil pump clearance.
I will have to look for a picture taken while the car was on a lift.

Roadsternewbe wrote: Mon Mar 17, 2025 10:06 pm This is amazing!
I’ve been looking for months for some help with this!
I’d love the Datsun community!
I’m right here in San Jose
Let me know who I can contact and connect up I would be greatly appreciated
Thanks again guys Paul

Cool, that's why we're here! Not only did you get a car, you got a family... Welcome! BTW, there's no flaming here and no stupid questions so don't worry about asking questions or sharing knowledge.

Thank you just keep sending all the info you got this way
I think I first need to know what kind of motor mounts everybody is using or custom made and if so where can I buy a set thanks again

Years ago I used to help Stan build L series conversion engine and transmission mounts for roadsters. It will take time to find the instructions and diagrams for them, but I think I might still have them.
Dave

I bought one of of these kits, circa ~1994 from Dave & Stan.

The height issue is the L18 vs L20B. The L20B is about 1.5 taller than the L18. The other issue issue is the top mount type carb used on many L-Series also interferes with the stock roadster hood.

How do you like running the L series in your roadster Dan?
No hurry david whenever you find a diagram and instruction, please pass it on down. Thank you again.

I put an L20b in mine years ago but never finished it. I've recently gotten back to working on it with my son who is going to be taking it over.
I used one of Stan's kits and the engine fit fine. The front crossmember needs to be notched for the oil pump but other than that I don't remember any modifications besides the transmission mount. It need some modifications to work with the 280ZX 5 speed and I just finished fabricating that. We're hoping to get it on the road again this summer.
If you want any pictures I'd be happy to share.

Roadsternewbe wrote: Thu Mar 20, 2025 9:47 pm How do you like running the L series in your roadster Dan?

I really enjoyed the L-Series in a roadster. I've owned two 4 cyl L Series swapped cars, both during the early 90's, before the availability of the KA/SR engines. At the time, the L-Series engines were inexpensive, readily available and there was still lots of aftermarket parts support. Also, the Z-5Spd was also readily available. Most of the L-Series swaps at the time were not fancy, show level swaps. The L-Series was a simple, dependable, workhorse motor that was easy to maintain and drive. The combination of the L-Series with dual SU Carbs & the 5spd was fantastic.

Thanks DAN i do really like the l series engine in my 510 and I feel there is so much aftermarket stuff for it