Hi |Ethan my name is Imrun and I too live in Zimbabwe I also have a 1200 with some stuff that I want to get rid of if you are interested call me on 023434117 bro I think I can help you out.

We still seeing a lot of the new champs here.... and in bots.

At least availability of spares isnt an issue.

I still havent had a chance to check out an engine or two... thinking of just keeping it stock till i move to South Africa next year then mod-ing it up a bit.

My car originally came from Zim, and it was a GX to boot...

They don't make the 1400's in ZA anymore, they stopped end of last year. Anything on the floors now are simply stock...

hmm i thought you where in aus im not sure how much a 5 speedwould go for in zim

Hi Ethan, welcome to the club. We would love to see a pic of a Zim 1200, even if unrestored.

For power and relibility, yes indeed swap the A14 from a 1400 bakkie. It'll fit right in there. You will be amazed at the power difference, and it has factory reliability.

The 5-speed will only make a difference at highway speeds -- it will increase fuel economy at 100 km/h. It won't increase your power, in fact it will reduce your power since the gears are higher.

I couldn't think of a better present, well done!

The nissan champ motor will fit in as long as you use the champ engine crossmember as well. I think you might find the champ 5spd will fit but I am not sure if the gearbox tunnel is the same as your datsun 1200, you might need to use a different gearbox crossmember.

Ok, let me look around... i may be able to swap my engine with someone... will update you when i've got figures.

South Africa is still manufacturing the nissan champ, would an engine from one of those fit straight into the 1200?

What 5 speed would i get-from what car exactly?

As you in southern Africa a larger capaity A series engine shouldnt be too hard or expensive to get, A14 or A15 this will give you more gains than modifying the 1200, the 5 speed will be good also.

uhh 5 speed your lookin atleat 1000 for one
put an a14/a15 in with extractors then get the 32/36 webber with adaptor and electronic dizzy and the should be fairly reliable with enough power

so you reckon i change the entire engine? that'l be quite an expense! what unreliability would come with a carb swap? what gains would be had from gas flowing the head or fitting a high-lift cam?

I know, a sacrifice has to be made-one for the other, but if i have a problem once in a blue moon with a slightly modified engine, i dont mind.

I also wanted to change the gear box to a 5 speed... will this add to unreliability?

thanks for your response by the way...