Target Audience:
Owners, restorers, and mechanics of the 1976 Datsun 280Z seeking comprehensive repair and maintenance information.
Value Proposition:
This manual is presented as superior to cheaper, incomplete alternatives, offering a complete and high-quality resource for all repair needs.
Completeness:
Guaranteed no missing pages, covering all models and extensive repair procedures.
Usability:
Easy-to-use PDF format with a superb table of contents for quick access to information.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and specifications for the L28E inline-six engine.
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system: components, testing, troubleshooting, and calibration.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition system: components, testing, and adjustment.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, and fan operation and servicing.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, pipes, and muffler maintenance and repair.
Transmission:
Manual (FS5W71B) and Automatic (3N71B) transmissions: overhaul, adjustments, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Clutch assembly, driveshaft, U-joints, differential, and half-shafts: inspection and service.
Suspension Front:
MacPherson struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints, and sway bar: inspection and replacement.
Suspension Rear:
Independent rear suspension, trailing arms, shock absorbers, bushings, and stabilizer bar: inspection and service.
Steering System:
Rack and pinion steering: components, fluid checks, and power steering pump servicing.
Brake System:
Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes: caliper servicing, pad replacement, rotor inspection, master cylinder, and brake fluid.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, lighting, gauges, and accessories.
Body And Chassis:
Frame construction, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, and trim: removal and installation procedures.
HVAC System:
Heater core, blower motor, and ventilation system maintenance.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic procedures and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Engine Repair:
Detailed overhaul procedures for engine components (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshaft).
Transmission Repair:
Complete rebuild procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions.
Brake Service:
Caliber rebuilding, brake line replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams and component testing procedures.
Bodywork Repair:
Procedures for panel alignment, rust repair, and glass replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical recommendation for the era).
Tune Up Interval:
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months (includes spark plugs, points, filters, timing). Fuel injection requires specialized checks.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months (manual and automatic).
Engine Oil Type:
API SE/SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
5.7 (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-II or equivalent.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, strut towers, battery tray area.
Fuel Injection Challenges:
Diagnosis of L-Jetronic system can be complex; airflow meter, cold start valve, and injector issues are common.
Electrical Reliability:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent faults.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts can wear over time, affecting handling.