Hi - please be kind, this is my first post :-)

 

I have Japanese import 300ZX Fairlady, 1991. I would be the first to admit I know nothing about cars, have just loved driving it for the last 6 years!

 

I suddenly have a cutting out problem that I am having trouble getting diagnosed and wonder if any of you have heard of before? I have spent half hour or so searching here for info but not really sure what I should be looking for.

 

Engine starts normally, then after several minutes everything cuts out dead (happens whether driving or engine is just idling) - engine stalls and all ignition lights go off. Although I can turn the ignition back on immediately, the engine won't start again for maybe 20 - 40 mins, though the starter motor is turning and the battery is not flat. After that time, the car starts again fine, but then stalls again after a few mins. Does it every time.

 

Don't know if the following is relevant, but there is an alarm in the car which was working perfectly before the car first cut out. I have subsequently been told the alarm has had it and it has now been bypassed. There is also an immobiliser which I have had checked and been told it is working perfectly.

 

My mechanic has been looking at this for me for 2 days and has so far been unable to find a problem. Do you guys have any ideas please??

Do some searches on PTU and see if that helps, sounds like that could be the cause.

We are ALWAYS kind!

 

Sounds like it could be the PTU. Do a search on here on that and you will find loads!

 

Or I'm convinced a dodgy temp sensor also might do this. As it tricks the ecu into thinking the car is overheating and prevents it from being started again for a while.

Thx for your help guys. I had a look at the forum messages re PTU and that does seem to sound like the problem. I called my mechanic to tell him about it.

 

He says there was another ZX in the garage next door to him and he swapped its "ignition module" into mine and my car has now been running fine for an hour. He says this is the same thing as the PTU - is it? (Sorry, I know nothing..)

 

He's telling me a replacement has to be ordered from Nissan and will cost £277 + VAT. Is this right or can I get it cheaper (quickly) elsewhere? I have to call him back this afternoon to let him know. Thanks so much for your kind help.

Yep, its the same thing. PTU power transistor unit.

 

I got mine from Courtesy and in a few days too. Alot cheaper than Nissan here. But try Mr Feeney on 01277 374201 if you are pushed for time. And do I remember Jeff having some on the shelf?

And I think I remember that Nissan over here will just supply a series 1 ptu??? you want a series 2.

Sillic,

 

Send me a mail - vij@dsl.pipex.com as I may be able to help you out.

 

Vijay

Thanks guys. I am sooo glad to have found you. You would not believe (or maybe you would) the number of garages/mechanics I have spoken to who just tell me to go away when I tell them what car it is (and especially the imported bit). I must really learn to do this stuff myself.

 

I have mailed Vijay and will call Mr Feeney this afternoon. Could you let me know how to get in touch with Courtesy please.

Courtesy Nissan are in Texas and their number is 001 9722312600. I always phone through my order that way they say whether its in stock and how long till its shipped.

 

Do yourself a favour too and join tt.net. Members get a discount or they used to. I think I am an max discount now as you seem to get more each order! If you want me to get a price to see if its any different then give me a shout.

Well, thanks to Vijay, I now have PTU on its way to me and should be back on the road tomorrow, all being well :bow:

 

I am glad to have found you and will be back again. Would love to come and watch some of your racing! Thanks again peeps.

 

xx-Sal-xx

Well done! Good news.

 

Where abouts are you? There are a few meets coming up.......get yourself along!

I'm in Pinner, Middlesex James. Not far from Harrow and Watford.

Sounds like this coming Sunday, then :D

 

Royal Oak, Farnham Common 12 noon

 

http://www.300zx.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=27111

You can't go racing in Farnham Common Gio :rofl:

 

New PTU arrived this morning (thx Vijay), has been fitted and car is back on the road :dance:

We are a sociable lot really and usually just meet for a beer and some lunch!

 

 

The power of the board. Glad your Z is happy again! :D

Well done guys in sorting out Sally's car. When it comes to cars like Zxs it does need experience.

Geoff.