🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

1600

Common Synonym:

Datsun Bluebird 1600

Chassis Code:

510

Generation Code:

4th Generation (Bluebird 510)

Internal Project Code:

810 Series (for Bluebird)

👋 Introduction

Category:

Compact Sedan/Coupe/Wagon

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Restoration Specialists

Key Competitors:

Toyota Corona, Mazda Familia, Nissan Sunny, Ford Escort (Europe), Holden Torana (Australia)

Design Philosophy:

Sporty Handling, Reliable Engineering, Simple Mechanicals

Notable Variants:

GT Sedan, GT-R Coupe (with independent rear suspension, often equipped with L20 engine in later iterations but L16 variants were common).

📋 Manual Details

Covered Model Years:

1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 800-1200 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era, exact count may vary)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

L16 (1.6L Inline-4 OHV)

Engine Variants:

L16S (Single Carburetor), L16N (Twin Carburetor - specific markets/trims)

Transmission:

4-Speed Manual, 3-Speed Automatic

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Suspension:

Independent Front Suspension (MacPherson Struts), Rear Leaf Springs (Sedan/Wagon), Rear Independent Suspension (Coupe/GT)

Brakes:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes

Steering:

Recirculating Ball Steering System

Electrical:

12V System, Ignition, Lighting, Gauges, Charging System (Alternator), Starter Motor

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Hitachi/SU), Fuel Pump, Fuel Tank, Lines

Cooling System:

Radiator, Fan, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Hoses

Exhaust System:

Exhaust Manifold, Pipes, Muffler

Body And Frame:

Body Panel Repair, Chassis Structure, Doors, Hood, Trunk

Interior:

Seating, Dashboard, Trim, Upholstery

HVAC:

Heater System (if equipped)

Preventive Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Tune-ups, Fluid Checks, Belt Adjustments

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all systems

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures

Transmission Repair:

Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, repair, and adjustment

Brake System Service:

Disc pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, fluid bleeding

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Component replacement (shocks, ball joints, tie rods), alignment specifications

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, circuit troubleshooting

Carburetor Adjustment And Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for Hitachi and SU carburetors

Body And Trim Repair:

Panel alignment, rust repair guidance, interior trim removal/installation

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts)

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting

Specification Detail:

Includes torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, fluid types, and capacities

Component Rebuilds:

Covers detailed rebuild procedures for major components like engines, transmissions, and carburetors

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for easy information retrieval

Scan Resolution:

Expected high-resolution scans suitable for printing if desired

Physical Format Equivalent:

Perfect Bound / Spiral Bound (if printed equivalent)

Physical Format Equivalent:

Matte Paper (typical for workshop manuals)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L16

Engine Type:

Inline-4, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Displacement:

1595 cc (97.3 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

83.0 mm x 73.7 mm (3.27 in x 2.90 in)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on market and specific variant)

Horsepower Gross:

Approx. 96 hp (71 kW) at 6000 rpm (single carb), Approx. 105 hp (78 kW) at 6000 rpm (twin carb)

Torque Gross:

Approx. 100 lb-ft (136 Nm) at 3600 rpm (single carb), Approx. 108 lb-ft (146 Nm) at 4000 rpm (twin carb)

Carburetion:

Hitachi DC-170 (Single Barrel) or Hitachi DC-78/SU HS2 (Twin Barrel)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per local market standards, typically 91-98 RON)

Ignition System:

Distributor, Coil, Spark Plugs

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

3-Speed Automatic (Optional)

Clutch Type:

Dry Single Plate Clutch

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2400 mm (94.5 in)

Length:

Approx. 3960 - 4120 mm (155.9 - 162.2 in) depending on body style

Width:

Approx. 1575 mm (62.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370 - 1420 mm (53.9 - 55.9 in) depending on body style

Curb Weight:

Approx. 950 - 1050 kg (2094 - 2315 lbs) depending on body style and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A (Typical for period passenger cars)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No standardized crash testing data available for this era and region, but known for robust construction for its time.

Braking System:

Front Disc, Rear Drum

Seat Belts:

Standard 3-point front, 2-point rear (availability and types varied by market)

Body Structure:

Unitized body construction with reinforced safety cage

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM Radio (Optional Factory/Dealer installed), Aftermarket units common

Features:

None (Basic automotive technology of the era)

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000-15,000 miles or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Inspect, approx. 30,000 miles. Automatic: Every 20,000-30,000 miles

Engine Oil Viscosity:

API SE/SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific ambient temperature ranges)

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze Mixture (50/50 with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 80W-90

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent

Common Problems:

Rust (especially around wheel arches, sills, battery tray), carburation issues (idle stability, tuning), suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), electrical gremlins (grounds, aging wiring), exhaust manifold cracks.

Reliability Notes:

Generally reliable but requires diligent maintenance due to age. Parts availability can be a challenge for specific trim pieces or unique components.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Lineage:

Successor to the Datsun Bluebird 410, part of the iconic Datsun 'Datson' era. Known for its 'Japanese BMW' styling and driving dynamics.

Facelifts:

Minor cosmetic updates and feature changes throughout its production run.

Production Period:

1967-1973 (for the 510 generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (Yokohama, Oppama), Australia (by Nissan Motor Company Australia), USA (CKD kits assembled in Mexico for some markets)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Accolades:

Widely praised by automotive press for its handling and performance relative to its price point, earning it 'benchmark' status in the compact car segment of its time.