I currently have a z18et and gearbox in my 1200 sedan. Sometime in the future im keen to put a ca18det in it for more power and better availability of parts and knowledge in nz. Is the z18et very similar to a ca in the way of engine mounts, and could i use the z18 gearbox? The tunnel has not been modified with the z18 gearbox but would have to be for the ca one. If so what sort of punishment can z18 gearboxes take?

Z18 box will be up to the task depending on how much power you put through it.

You will need to swap a CA bellhousing over to it though.

Chris from Christchurch can help with the mounting of it etc, there are a few options.

Talk to Wal Andy. He could prolly mount the engine for you in a few hours. You'll need to have the tunnel enlarged a bit too. Wal eats that stuff for breakfast. Dan can do your wiring no probs also.

Thanks yep just not enlarging the tunnel would be easier if possible.

stick with the Z18 box for now, just get a CA bellhousing from a series 3 bluwbird 5 speed and it should bolt straight on

then just bolt the engine to the box and bolt the gearbox end into the car and make up mounts to suit where the engine ends up

that way you dont thave to change anything from the bellhousing back

Sweet that would be good as i wouldnt have to enlarge the tunnel or change the driveshaft again. What year are series 3 bluebirds what engines do they have the early ca18ets?

i think they are the ca20's bloke.

By 'bellhousing' do you mean the front case of the transmission? You have to partially disassembly the gearbox to swap front case.