🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

280ZX

Year:

1983

Chassis Code:

S130

Generation Name:

Second Generation (S130)

Generation Years:

1978-1983

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners, enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and independent repair shops

Value Proposition:

Cost savings on repairs, empowerment for self-servicing, comprehensive knowledge base.

Manual Strength:

Specificity to the 1983 Datsun 280ZX, covering all models and engine types.

Advantage:

Provides dealer/mechanic level information for DIY application.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Models & Repairs A-Z

Repair Scope:

Mechanical and Electrical

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'tons' of pictures/diagrams and covering A-Z repairs)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Print Ability:

Printable pages

Accessibility:

Instant Download Delivery

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine Removal/Installation, Cylinder Head/Valve Train, Engine Block, Engine Lubrication, Intake Manifold/Exhaust System, Valve Timing Procedures, Chain & Gear Replacement, General Removal & Installation Instructions, Safety Precautions, Special Tools, Tensioner Adjustments, Tightening Torques, Timing Marks, Valve Timing Instructions, Tensioner Release & Reset Methods, Chain Routing & Sprocket/Gear Valve Timing Marks

Fuel And Emissions:

Fuel and Emissions, Emissions Control

Cooling And Heating:

Cooling and Heating

Transmission Drivetrain:

Transaxle, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Differential, Driveshaft

Suspension Steering:

Steering, Suspension

Brakes:

Brakes (including ABS)

Bodywork:

Body

Electrical Systems:

Electrical (including SRS), Wiring Diagrams

Climate Control:

Heater and Air Conditioning, Automatic Climate Control

Ignition System:

Ignition

Routine Maintenance:

Included

Tune Up:

Included

Troubleshooting:

Implied by A-Z repairs and detailed diagrams

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagrams and repair steps suggest diagnostic capabilities

Component Replacement:

Covered for all major systems

Rebuilding Procedures:

Likely covered for major components given the 'A-Z' scope

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: From routine maintenance to complete mechanical and electrical repairs

Diagnostic Detail:

Advanced, supported by detailed diagrams and specifications

Visual Aid Quality:

High, with 'tons of detailed pictures & diagrams'

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable if it's a digitally created PDF

Print Resolution:

Professional Quality (implies good clarity for printing)

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital file)

Digital Paper:

N/A (Digital file)

Usage Rights:

Unlimited use, 'will never time out or expire'

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Engine Code:

L28E (Fuel Injected)

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2753 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 79.0 mm

Horsepower Est:

145 hp @ 5200 rpm (typical for L28E in this year)

Torque Est:

167 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (typical for L28E in this year)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition

Valve Timing Coverage:

Covered, including chain/gear replacement and timing mark procedures

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic clutch operation (for manual)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (General spec, check manual for exact)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (General spec, check manual for exact)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

91.3 inches (2319 mm)

Overall Length:

174.2 inches (4425 mm)

Overall Width:

66.5 inches (1689 mm)

Overall Height:

50.2 inches (1275 mm) (Coupe)

Curb Weight Est:

2,900 - 3,100 lbs (1315 - 1406 kg) depending on trim/options

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

NHTSA ratings for this era are limited; manual would detail internal safety design considerations.

Braking System:

Power-assisted disc brakes (front), drum brakes (rear); ABS available on some models/later production.

Seatbelts:

3-point front seat belts

Srs System:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) mentioned in coverage, likely referring to driver's airbag on later models or advanced seatbelt pre-tensioners, though a driver airbag was not standard in 1983.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player (optional)

Cruise Control:

Optional

Air Conditioning:

Optional, manual covers servicing

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Est:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (typical for the era, manual will specify)

Tune Up Interval Est:

Every 30,000 miles (includes spark plugs, filters, etc., manual will specify)

Engine Oil:

API SF or SG, 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise viscosity and capacity)

Coolant:

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

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (check manual for specific DOT rating)

Common Problems:

Rust (especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, battery tray), fuel injector issues, worn suspension bushings, aging electrical connectors, fuel pump reliability, distributor O-ring leaks.

Maintenance Benefit:

Manual provides precise torque values, timing settings, and procedures to address common issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Datsun Evolution:

Datsun was phased out and rebranded as Nissan globally by 1986. The 280ZX represents a significant evolution in Nissan's sports car lineage.

280Zx Introduction:

Successor to the Datsun 280Z (S30). Introduced in 1978 as the S130 chassis.

Design Philosophy:

Shifted towards more luxury, comfort, and technological features compared to the raw sporting nature of the original Z car.

Production Location:

Japan

Body Styles:

2+2 Coupe, T-Bar Roof Coupe

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Import Car Of The Year:

Motor Trend Import Car of the Year 1979 (for the 280ZX generation)