Positioning:
Iconic Japanese sports car, the 240Z (Fairlady Z in Japan) revolutionized affordable performance motoring.
Competitors Era:
Competed with cars like the Jaguar E-Type (at a fraction of the cost), Chevrolet Corvette, and European GT cars.
Design Philosophy:
Stylish Italian-esque GT coupe design with a potent inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive, and a focus on driver engagement.
Value Proposition:
Exceptional performance and design for its price point, making sports car ownership accessible.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery (carburetor specific), exhaust.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, clutch assembly, driveshaft, differential.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front strut suspension, rear independent suspension, steering gear, power steering (if applicable).
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, frame straightening, doors, windows, trim, interior components.
Electrical Body:
Wiper system, heater, ventilation, air conditioning (if equipped), power accessories.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptoms, and remedies.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Restoration:
Guidance on refurbishment of various vehicle systems and aesthetic components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
SOHC Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2393 cc (2.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 73.7 mm
Horsepower Net:
151 hp @ 5600 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque Net:
190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SAE Net)
Carburetion:
Twin SU HS4 (or Hitachi HJG 46W) 2-barrel carburetors.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (recommend premium)
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based ignition with points and condenser.
Safety Era:
Safety standards of the era, lacking modern passive safety features like airbags and advanced crumple zones.
Brakes:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assistance was often optional or standard on later models.
Seatbelts:
Lap and shoulder belts (likely three-point).
Construction:
Unitized body construction with integrated safety cage elements.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Tune Up:
Recommended every 10,000-12,000 miles or annually, including spark plugs, points, condenser, and distributor timing.
Transmission Fluid:
Check every 6 months, change every 24,000-30,000 miles (refer to manual for exact interval and fluid type).
Engine Oil:
API SF or SG rated oil, viscosity typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for precise recommendation).
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific type).
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, floor pans, battery tray area, rear hatch surround.
Carburetor Issues:
SU carburetors can be finicky; require regular adjustment, proper fuel flow, and correct float levels.
Ignition System:
Points and condenser require periodic inspection and replacement for optimal running.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring can lead to intermittent issues; thorough inspection and repair is often necessary.
Datsun Legacy:
Datsun (later Nissan) built a reputation for reliable, affordable, and sporty vehicles.
First Generation:
The S30 chassis, of which the 240Z is the first iteration in North America, debuted in 1969 in Japan.
Model Years:
240Z designation used for North America from 1970-1973. Replaced by the 260Z in 1974.
Significant Changes 1973:
Minor styling updates, bumper enhancements (often to meet US regulations), and potential minor interior refinements over previous years.
