🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

280Z

Model Code:

S30 (for the first generation, the 280Z specifically refers to later models within this generation)

Year:

1976

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Datsun 280Z owners, DIY mechanics, restoration enthusiasts.

Advantage:

Comprehensive A-Z coverage, detailed pictures and diagrams, printable format for practical use, lifetime access, significant cost savings over professional repairs.

Features:

Detailed repair instructions, mechanical and electrical systems, diagnostic information, maintenance schedules, specifications, wiring diagrams.

📋 Manual Details

All Models:

Yes

All Engine Types:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (typical workshop manuals for this era are hundreds of pages, often 1000+ with detailed diagrams)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Printable:

Yes, all pages

Searchable:

Likely searchable if the PDF is properly indexed (OCR)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete mechanical and electrical repairs, including engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valve train, engine block, lubrication, intake/exhaust systems, fuel and emissions, ignition, timing procedures.

Drivetrain:

Transaxle, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, differential, driveshaft.

Suspension Steering:

Steering systems, suspension components, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system repairs, hydraulic systems, components, (ABS mentioned, though unlikely standard on 1976 280Z, might be for later models or a typo in the description, but the manual's intent is comprehensive).

Electrical:

Full electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, ignition, starter, charging system, lighting, accessories, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - likely for later models if mentioned, but signifies broad electrical coverage).

Body Chassis:

Body repairs, structural components, interior components.

HVAC:

Heating, air conditioning, automatic climate control systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Yes, detailed procedures.

Tune Up:

Yes, comprehensive tune-up procedures.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Implied by 'real deal' and covering all repairs A-Z, including electrical diagnosis.

Component Rebuild:

Yes, detailed engine, transmission, and other major component rebuild procedures.

Removal Installation:

Yes, general and specific component removal/installation instructions.

Specifications:

Yes, including tightening torques, valve timing, etc.

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds, mechanical and electrical systems).

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Quality:

Professional quality, designed for clear printing of text and diagrams.

Binding:

Digital (PDF), printable. Actual binding would depend on user's printing.

Paper:

N/A (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2753 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1 (typical for 1976 model)

Horsepower:

Approximately 170 hp @ 5600 rpm (SAE Gross - actual net would be lower)

Torque:

Approximately 213 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SAE Gross - actual net would be lower)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

System:

Electronic Ignition System

Oil Capacity:

5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change

Recommended Oil:

API SG/SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on temperature)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Manual Capacity:

Approximately 2.3 US quarts (2.2 liters)

Automatic Capacity:

Approximately 9.0 US quarts (8.5 liters) for overhaul

Manual Fluid Spec:

API GL-4 SAE 90 Hypoid Gear Oil (refer to manual for exact specification)

Automatic Fluid Spec:

Dexron II (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 162.8 inches (4135 mm)

Width:

Approx. 64.2 inches (1630 mm)

Height:

Approx. 50.6 inches (1285 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 90.7 inches (2300 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2860 lbs (1297 kg) for manual transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3850 lbs (1746 kg)

Standard Tire Size:

195/70HR14

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x130mm

Wheel Size:

14 x 5.5 inches

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No standardized crash test data (NHTSA) available for this specific vintage; rely on structural integrity and passive safety features of the era.

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes; Rear: Drum Brakes. Power assist likely.

Seat Belts:

3-point front seat belts, lap belts for passengers.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player option. Analog controls.

Features:

Minimal to none by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical systems and driver control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months (refer to manual for specific recommendations)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 miles (32,000 km)

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 24 months

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 as specified in the manual)

Power Steering Fluid:

Dextron II (or equivalent, if power steering equipped)

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Common Problems:

Rust/corrosion (especially around wheel wells, floor pans, battery tray), fuel injection system issues (vacuum leaks, worn injectors, pump), electrical gremlins, aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), differential whine, transmission synchro wear.

Parts Availability:

Some specialized parts can be scarce or expensive, but many common wear items are available from aftermarket suppliers. The manual is critical for identifying correct parts.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand:

Datsun (predecessor to Nissan)

Origin:

Japan

Generation:

First Generation (S30) - 1970-1978. The 280Z (introduced in 1975) represented an evolution with a larger engine and fuel injection to meet emissions standards and performance demands.

Key Milestones:

240Z (1970-1973), 260Z (1974), 280Z (1975-1978). The 280Z marked a significant shift with its L28 engine and Bosch fuel injection.

Production Years:

1975-1978 (for the 280Z model)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Significance:

Iconic sports car that popularized Japanese automotive performance and design globally. The 280Z was the definitive evolution of the S30 chassis.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporaneous Awards:

Widely acclaimed as a sports car of the year by automotive publications during its production run for its performance, styling, and value.

Collectible Status:

Highly collectible classic sports car, with strong demand from enthusiasts and collectors.