# 1979 Datsun Conversion
**URL:** https://community.electricforum.com/t/1979-datsun-conversion/3663
**Category:** Conversion Kits
**Created:** [July 24, 2013, 9:06pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/1979-datsun-conversion/3663 "2013-07-24T21:06:50Z")
**Posts on this page:** 2
**Page:** 1
### Author:  [@AndyGaryLee](https://community.electricforum.com/u/AndyGaryLee)
#### Post date: [July 24, 2013, 9:06pm UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/1979-datsun-conversion/3663/1 "2013-07-24T21:06:50Z")
Hey, I’m wanting to convert a 1979 Datsun 280ZX for as cheap as possible. I was wondering if it would be possible and feasible to start off with a normal lead acid battery pack, invert that to 240VAC single phase (it’s really hard to come across affordable 3 phase inverters, or at least in my experience, perhaps I could salvage one from a large backup generator) and then input it into a 3 phase variable frequency drive (which will take single phase and convert it into 3 phase) as my motor controller. That means I can use an off the shelf 3 phase industrial motor to power the car. Regen would be possible with a rectifier circuit or I could hack a charge control or something possibly. This is my first conversion and it’s sort of an experimental build.
I also want to note that the transmission has been removed and I plan to attach the motor directly to the rear differential, which would work because it has a gear ratio of about 1:3.5, and the motor is turning at about 1700RPM, so the wheel speed would be at a somewhat decent place.
I am curious about this because I can acquire a controller and motor from someone for about $100-200.
This is the current path I’m thinking of taking but I want to hear other tips and opinions you have about this conversion.
Thanks!
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### Author:  [@Editor](https://community.electricforum.com/u/Editor)
#### Post date: [July 25, 2013, 3:25am UTC](https://community.electricforum.com/t/1979-datsun-conversion/3663/2 "2013-07-25T03:25:23Z")
Hi AndyGaryLee
I was wondering what kind of budget you had your conversion project? This is the kind of project which many of our forum members would be interested to follow.
Regards,
Mark