Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size sedan and coupe.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Corona, Datsun 510 (predecessor), Ford Pinto, Chevrolet Vega, AMC Gremlin/Hornet.
Design Philosophy:
Offered a balance of economy, reliability, and sportiness, continuing the legacy of the popular Datsun 510.
Body Styles:
Available as a 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, and 2-door coupe.
Engine Service:
Detailed procedures for disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and repair of all engine components.
Fuel System:
Carburetor service (e.g., Hitachi), fuel pump, lines, and tank.
Ignition System:
Distributor, coils, spark plugs, timing adjustments, and troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan assembly maintenance and repair.
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter (if applicable), pipes, and heat shields.
Transmission Service:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch replacement, and fluid services.
Driveline:
Propeller shafts, U-joints, rear axle assembly, and differential service.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, shock absorbers, springs, and bushings.
Steering System:
Steering column, steering box/rack, tie rods, and power steering system (if equipped).
Brake System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, and parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting, instruments, and accessory circuits.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle electrical systems.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, glass replacement, interior trim, and structural components.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, operation, and basic service (though AC was often optional and less complex).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, lubrication points, and fluid level checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for various systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed breakdowns and rebuild instructions for major components like engines and transmissions.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, valve lash settings, and wheel alignment.
Depth Of Information:
In-depth, professional-level technical data suitable for mechanics and experienced DIYers.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on specific tools and gauges required for diagnosis and repair.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for engine clearances, bearing tolerances, and other critical measurements.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months (per typical 1970s recommendations).
Tune Up Interval:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles or 12 months (spark plugs, points, timing).
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG classification, viscosity 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Refer to manual for exact OEM specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5-5.0 quarts (4.3-4.7 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent specification fluid).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Rear Axle Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 90 hypoid gear oil.
Rust Susceptibility:
Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas with road salt. Check wheel arches, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
Carburetor Tuning:
Hitachi carburetors can be sensitive and require proper adjustment for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connections can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear out over time, affecting handling and alignment.
