1986 Z31 Manual

The 1986 Nissan 300ZX Z31 is a third-generation sports car featuring a 3.0L V6 engine, rear-wheel drive, turbocharged and naturally aspirated variants, digital dash display, T-top roof option, advanced suspension system, and modern electronic features for its era. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical details.

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 1986 300ZX Z31 model.

Specification	Details
Engine Type	VG30E/VG30ET V6
Displacement	3.0L (2960cc)
Horsepower	160 hp (NA) / 200 hp (Turbo)
Torque	174 lb-ft (NA) / 227 lb-ft (Turbo)
Transmission	5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive
Fuel System	Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Capacity	19.4 gallons
Curb Weight	3,150 lbs
Wheelbase	91.3 inches

Instrument Panel

Digital and analog gauge cluster with comprehensive monitoring systems.

1. Digital Speedometer: LCD display showing current speed
2. Tachometer: Analog gauge with redline at 6500 RPM
3. Fuel Gauge: Digital fuel level indicator
4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
5. Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, battery
6. Turbo Boost Gauge: (Turbo models only)

NOTE: Digital display may require bulb replacement over time.

Engine Operation

VG30 series engine characteristics and operating procedures.

1. Cold Start: Allow 30 seconds for oil circulation
2. Warm-up: Avoid high RPM until operating temperature reached
3. Turbo Operation: Allow cool-down period after hard driving
4. Oil Changes: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
5. Timing Belt: Replace every 60,000 miles

WARNING! Never disconnect turbo cooling system while hot.

Transmission Systems

• Manual Transmission: FS5W71C 5-speed with overdrive
• Automatic Transmission: RE4R01A 4-speed with lock-up torque converter
• Clutch: Hydraulic actuation (manual)
• Shift Points: Optimal shift at 5500 RPM for maximum acceleration
• Fluid Specifications: GL-4 for manual, Dexron II for automatic
• Differential: R200 limited-slip available

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with advanced electronics for 1986.

Battery: 12V 60Ah, located in rear compartment. Alternator: 70 amp output. Starter: Direct drive 1.4kW.

Features: Digital dash, power windows, cruise control, automatic climate control, premium sound system with cassette player.

Suspension & Steering

Independent suspension with rack-and-pinion steering.

1. Front: MacPherson struts with stabilizer bar
2. Rear: Semi-trailing arms with Chapman struts
3. Steering: Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
4. Turning Circle: 34.1 feet
5. Wheel Alignment: Regular checks recommended

Tip: Inspect bushings and ball joints during routine maintenance.

Braking System

Four-wheel disc brakes with power assist.

1. Front Brakes: Ventilated discs, 10.7 inches
2. Rear Brakes: Solid discs, 10.7 inches
3. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 specification
4. Parking Brake: Rear drum-in-hat design
5. ABS: Not available on 1986 models

WARNING! Replace brake pads when thickness below 1/8 inch.

Routine Maintenance

Scheduled service intervals and procedures.

Service	Interval	Procedure
Oil Change	3,000 miles	Replace oil filter, 4.5 quarts 10W-30
Spark Plugs	30,000 miles	NGK BPR6ES-11 gap 0.041 inches
Timing Belt	60,000 miles	Replace belt, tensioner, and seals
Coolant	30,000 miles	50/50 ethylene glycol mixture
Brake Fluid	2 years	Complete system flush

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Fuel pump, injectors	Check fuel pressure, replace filter
Overheating	Thermostat, radiator	Replace thermostat, flush cooling system
Poor idle	Vacuum leaks, sensors	Inspect hoses, check ECU codes
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace rotors
Electrical issues	Ground connections	Clean and tighten ground points

Diagnostic: Consult factory service manual for ECU code reading.

Technical Diagrams

Reference diagrams for major systems (consult full manual for illustrations).

• Engine compartment layout
• Wiring harness routing
• Vacuum line diagrams
• Suspension component identification
• Brake system schematic

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before electrical work.