Through out the years the 280ZX was offered with three different Steering options. A manual rack and pinion, Power recirculating ball, and Power rack and pinion.

Below you will find the differences between the systems and what years the systems were offered.

Manual Rack and pinion

From 1979 to 1983 a Manual Rack and pinion Steering gear was available. It offered a 19.6:1 Steering ratio with a 3.5 turning radius lock to lock.

Power recirculating ball

Power Steering Pump and Lines


Steering Linkage

From 1979 to 1981 Datsun/Nissan offered a power recirculating ball steering system. It offered a 16.3:1 Steering ratio with a 2.7 turning radius lock to lock.

Power Rack and Pinion

In 1982 Datsun/Nissan did away with the power recirculating ball steering system and added a power rack and pinion system. It offered a 17.8:1 Steering ratio with a 3.2 turning radius lock to lock.

Sources used on this page:

• 1979-1983 Datsun Factory Service Manuals