Nissan 240sx Parts And Accessories

The Nissan 240SX, particularly the S13 (1989-1994) and S14 (1995-1998) chassis, remains a favorite among car enthusiasts, drifters, and tuners. Its lightweight design, rear-wheel drive, and relatively simple mechanics make it an ideal platform for modifications and upgrades. However, wading into the world of 240SX parts and accessories can be overwhelming. This guide will break down some of the most common and impactful upgrades you can make, providing technical insights to help you make informed decisions.

Engine Performance

For the KA24DE Engine

The KA24DE, the naturally aspirated engine found in the 240SX, is known for its reliability but lacks the outright horsepower some enthusiasts crave. Several modifications can improve its performance, although significant power gains often require forced induction.

• Intake and Exhaust: A cold air intake (CAI) and aftermarket exhaust system are typically the first modifications. The CAI aims to draw cooler air into the engine, increasing density for a more efficient combustion. An aftermarket exhaust, particularly a cat-back system, reduces backpressure, allowing the engine to breathe more freely. Look for mandrel-bent tubing, which maintains a consistent diameter throughout the exhaust system, maximizing flow. Note: Always ensure compliance with local emissions regulations.
• ECU Tuning: The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controls various engine parameters, including fuel delivery and ignition timing. A chipped ECU or a standalone ECU allows for custom tuning to optimize performance based on your modifications. Standalone ECUs offer greater control and flexibility but require extensive knowledge and careful calibration. Popular options include MegaSquirt, AEM, and Haltech.
• Camshafts: Upgrading to aftermarket camshafts with higher lift and duration can improve airflow into and out of the cylinders, resulting in increased horsepower. However, be mindful of valve-to-piston clearance and ensure the camshafts are compatible with your existing valvetrain. Installing adjustable cam gears allows for fine-tuning of cam timing.
• Forced Induction (Turbocharging or Supercharging): This is where significant power gains are achieved. Turbocharging utilizes exhaust gases to spin a turbine, forcing more air into the engine. Supercharging uses a belt-driven compressor to achieve the same effect. Both require significant supporting modifications, including upgraded fuel injectors, a larger fuel pump, a front-mount intercooler (FMIC) to cool the compressed air, and a robust ECU tuning solution. It's crucial to select a turbocharger or supercharger that matches your desired power goals and driving style. Proper installation and tuning are critical to prevent engine damage.

For the SR20DET Engine Swap

Many 240SX owners opt for the SR20DET engine swap, a turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine originally found in Japanese-market Nissan Silvias. This swap offers a significant power increase over the KA24DE and provides a readily available platform for further modification.

• Engine Management: While the stock SR20DET ECU can be used, most enthusiasts upgrade to a standalone ECU for better control and tunability, especially with modifications.
• Turbocharger Upgrades: The stock turbocharger can be upgraded to a larger unit for increased power. Common upgrades include Garrett GT28RS, GT3071R, and various other aftermarket options. Matching the turbocharger to your desired power goals and driving style is essential.
• Fuel System Upgrades: Higher horsepower SR20DET builds require upgraded fuel injectors, a higher-flowing fuel pump (e.g., Walbro 255 LPH), and potentially larger fuel lines and fuel rail. Fuel pressure regulation is also critical.
• Intercooler: A larger, more efficient intercooler is essential for cooling the compressed air from the turbocharger, reducing intake air temperatures (IATs) and improving performance. Front-mount intercoolers (FMICs) are the most common choice.
• Exhaust System: An upgraded exhaust system, typically 3 inches in diameter, reduces backpressure and allows the engine to breathe more freely. Downpipes are often replaced with larger diameter versions to further improve exhaust flow.
• Cooling System: The SR20DET generates significant heat, so an upgraded radiator and cooling fan are crucial to prevent overheating. Aluminum radiators offer better cooling capacity than the stock unit.

Suspension and Handling

Improving the 240SX's suspension and handling is critical for both performance and driving enjoyment.

Coilovers

Coilovers are adjustable suspension units that replace the stock shocks and springs. They offer several advantages, including adjustable ride height, adjustable damping (compression and rebound), and improved handling. Choose coilovers with spring rates that match your driving style and intended use. Consider options from reputable brands like Tein, BC Racing, and KW Suspension.

Sway Bars

Sway bars (also known as anti-roll bars) connect the left and right wheels, reducing body roll during cornering. Upgrading to larger sway bars can significantly improve handling. Adjustable sway bars allow you to fine-tune the car's handling balance. A stiffer front sway bar will generally increase oversteer, while a stiffer rear sway bar will increase understeer.

Bushings

Replacing worn or soft rubber bushings with polyurethane or spherical bearings can improve suspension response and reduce unwanted movement. Polyurethane bushings offer a good balance between performance and comfort, while spherical bearings provide the ultimate in performance but can be harsher on the street. Common bushings to upgrade include control arm bushings, subframe bushings, and differential bushings.

Steering Angle Kit

For drifting enthusiasts, a steering angle kit allows for increased steering angle, making it easier to initiate and maintain drifts. These kits often include modified knuckles, tie rods, and other components. Installation requires careful attention to detail and proper alignment.

Rear Subframe Risers/Drop Knuckles

These modifications are primarily used to correct suspension geometry after lowering the vehicle significantly. Lowering a 240SX can negatively impact roll center, bump steer, and other suspension characteristics. Risers help correct the roll center, while drop knuckles help correct bump steer.

Braking System

Upgrading the braking system is essential, especially with increased horsepower.

Big Brake Kits

Big brake kits (BBKs) typically include larger rotors, multi-piston calipers, and upgraded brake pads. They offer improved braking performance, increased thermal capacity, and a more consistent pedal feel. Always ensure that the master cylinder is sized appropriately for the upgraded calipers.

Brake Pads

Upgrading to performance brake pads is a cost-effective way to improve braking performance. Choose pads that are appropriate for your driving style and intended use. Track-oriented pads offer higher friction but may require longer warm-up times and can be noisy on the street.

Brake Lines

Replacing the stock rubber brake lines with stainless steel braided lines reduces brake line expansion under pressure, resulting in a firmer pedal feel and improved braking response.

Brake Master Cylinder

If you increase the number of pistons in your brake calipers, you may need a larger bore brake master cylinder. A larger bore master cylinder will displace more fluid and ensure that you are getting adequate brake force to the wheels.

Drivetrain

The drivetrain is another critical area for upgrades, especially with increased horsepower.

Clutch

Upgrading the clutch is essential for handling increased horsepower. Choose a clutch that is rated for the power levels you are targeting. Options include sprung clutches, unsprung clutches, and multi-disc clutches. Sprung clutches are generally more street-friendly, while unsprung clutches offer better performance but can be more aggressive.

Lightweight Flywheel

A lightweight flywheel reduces rotational inertia, allowing the engine to rev more quickly. However, it can also make the car more difficult to drive smoothly at low speeds.

Limited Slip Differential (LSD)

An LSD improves traction by distributing power to both rear wheels, preventing wheel spin. LSDs are essential for drifting and improving overall handling. Common types include clutch-type, Torsen-type, and viscous LSDs. Each type has its own characteristics in terms of lockup, noise, and maintenance requirements.

Driveshaft

For high-horsepower applications, an upgraded driveshaft is recommended to handle the increased torque. One-piece driveshafts are stronger and lighter than the stock two-piece driveshaft.

Other Accessories

• Gauges: Monitoring engine parameters is crucial for preventing damage, especially with modifications. Common gauges include boost pressure, oil pressure, water temperature, and air/fuel ratio (AFR).
• Seats: Upgrading to aftermarket seats can improve comfort and support, especially for track use.
• Roll Cage/Roll Bar: For track use, a roll cage or roll bar provides added safety in the event of a rollover.
• Body Kits: Body kits can improve the appearance of the 240SX, but it is also important to ensure proper fitment and quality.

Modifying a 240SX can be a rewarding experience. Always prioritize safety and ensure that your modifications are performed correctly. Thorough research and careful planning are essential for achieving your desired results. Remember that improper modifications can negatively affect the car's reliability and handling. Consulting with experienced mechanics or tuners can be invaluable.