🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

510

Year:

1973

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (510 A2)

Chassis Code:

DHW-510 (Sedan/Wagon), H510 (Coupe)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional Datsun technicians and dedicated DIY enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive resource for repair, maintenance, and restoration.

Value Proposition:

Offers the same detailed information as professional factory service manuals, enabling users to perform complex repairs and diagnostics previously exclusive to dealerships or specialized workshops.

Instructional Method:

Numbered step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos with enlarged inset views for clarity. Cautions, notes, and warnings highlight critical information.

Organization:

Numbered table of contents for quick information retrieval. Troubleshooting and electrical service procedures integrated with wiring diagrams.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Full Service Repair and Maintenance

Estimated Pages:

Highly comprehensive, likely exceeding 1000 pages when considering all procedures and diagrams. Specific count not provided, but described as 'very detailed'.

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, fuel system (carburetor and injection where applicable), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, adjustment, and repair. Clutch service.

Drivetrain:

Front suspension, rear suspension (including U-joint maintenance for RWD), drive axles, differential service.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), hydraulic system diagnostics and repair, parking brake.

Steering:

Steering gear box overhaul, power steering system (if equipped) service, alignment procedures.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, charging system, starting system, accessory circuits, troubleshooting.

Body:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, rust repair techniques.

Maintenance:

Regular service schedules, oil change procedures, filter replacements, tune-up specifications, fluid level checks and top-offs.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, electrical gremlins, engine performance issues, and drivability concerns.

Refurbishment Restoration:

Detailed guidance on rebuilding, refurbishing, and restoring all aspects of the vehicle, from mechanical components to cosmetic elements.

Depth:

Professional-level, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes diagnostic procedures for technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Binding:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR (for potential archive extraction)

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Nissan L-Series (Inline-4)

Engine Code:

L16 (most common), L18, L20B (later models/variations)

Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1595 cc) for L16. 1.8 Liters (1809 cc) for L18. 2.0 Liters (1952 cc) for L20B.

Bore X Stroke:

L16: 81.0 mm x 78.0 mm. L18: 81.0 mm x 86.0 mm. L20B: 85.0 mm x 86.0 mm.

Compression Ratio:

Typically 8.5:1 to 9.0:1, depending on specific engine variant and fuel octane.

Horsepower Gross Hp:

L16: Approx. 96-109 PS (95-107 bhp) at 6000 rpm. L18: Approx. 105-115 PS (104-113 bhp). L20B: Approx. 110-120 PS (109-118 bhp).

Torque Gross Lb-Ft:

L16: Approx. 93-98 lb-ft (126-133 Nm) at 3600 rpm. L18: Approx. 108-115 lb-ft (146-156 Nm). L20B: Approx. 120-125 lb-ft (163-169 Nm).

Fuel Delivery:

Typically downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi/SU style). Some models/markets may have had fuel injection (e.g., L-Jetronic) on specific performance variants, though less common for 1973.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (depending on market and emissions regulations for the year). Octane rating typically Regular to Mid-grade.

Ignition Type:

Conventional breaker-point ignition system with distributor. Some later models or specific markets might have seen early electronic ignition.

Cooling Medium:

Water-cooled, pressurized system.

Oil Type Recommendation:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SF or SG service category equivalent for the era). Check manual for precise recommendations.

Engine Mount Type:

Rubber insulated mounts.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., F4W71A).

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., L3N71B).

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Manual: GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil. Automatic: DEXRON-II or equivalent (check specific service bulletin).

Manual Gear Ratios:

Varies by specific transmission model, but typically around 3.38:1 for 1st gear, 2.05:1 for 2nd, 1.31:1 for 3rd, 1.00:1 for 4th, and 3.55:1 for reverse.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Station Wagon, 2-door Coupe (often referred to as the '240Z coupe' sibling).

Wheelbase:

100.0 inches (2540 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 160.0 inches (4064 mm) for Sedans. Station Wagon slightly longer.

Overall Width:

Approx. 63.6 inches (1615 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm) for Sedans. Station Wagon slightly taller.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,200 - 2,500 lbs (1000 - 1134 kg), depending on body style and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No specific official crash test ratings (like NHTSA or IIHS) exist for models of this era in the same way as modern vehicles. However, the unibody construction was considered robust for its time.

Active Safety:

Brake proportioning valve, dual-circuit hydraulic braking system.

Passive Safety:

Safety-padded dashboard and steering wheel (early implementation), strong passenger safety cell, collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio, often with a single speaker. Aftermarket upgrades are very common.

Driver Aids:

None by modern standards. Basic instrument cluster providing speed, RPM, fuel, temperature, oil pressure.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Synthetic oil can extend this if used.

Tune Up Interval:

Every 12,000-15,000 miles (20,000-25,000 km) or annually. Includes spark plugs, points, condenser, distributor timing, carburetor adjustment.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Check periodically, change if contaminated or shifted roughly. Automatic: Every 24,000 miles (40,000 km) or 24 months.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 24,000 miles (40,000 km) or 2 years, especially if moisture is suspected.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific Datsun/Nissan recommendations for the era.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

If equipped, typically DEXRON-II or equivalent power steering fluid. Not all 510s had power steering.

Common Problems:

Rust (especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and floor pans), worn suspension bushings, carburetor tuning issues, aging electrical components (wiring harness degradation), fuel system leaks, clutch wear, starter motor issues.

Durability Reputation:

Generally considered a robust and well-built car for its era, but requires diligent maintenance due to age. Parts availability can be a challenge for some items.

📚 Vehicle History

Datsun Legacy:

Datsun, the precursor to Nissan, built its reputation in the 1960s and 70s on reliable, affordable, and performance-oriented vehicles. The 510 was a key model in establishing Datsun's global presence.

Datsun 510 Lineage:

The Datsun 510 was introduced in 1968 and underwent a significant redesign for the 1971 model year, becoming known as the 510 A2. This 1973 model falls into this second generation. It was praised for its advanced suspension design (independent rear suspension on sedans/coupes) and responsive handling, earning it the nickname 'Baby Benz' due to its sophisticated engineering.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (primarily)

Production Years:

1968–1973 (globally for first and second generation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Widely praised by automotive press for its handling, performance, and value. Often compared favorably to European competitors. Nicknamed 'Baby Benz' for its sophisticated engineering and ride quality.

Motorsport Success:

The Datsun 510 achieved significant success in various motorsports, particularly in Trans-Am racing in the early 1970s, further cementing its performance credentials.