🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

280Z

Year:

1977

Body Style:

2-door Coupe

Market Segment:

Sports Car / Grand Tourer

Chassis Code:

S30

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Positioning:

The Datsun 280Z was a successful entry into the growing sports car market, known for its performance, styling, and value compared to European counterparts.

Key Competitors:

Chevrolet Corvette, Porsche 924/911, Triumph TR7, Jaguar XJ-S.

Drivetrain Layout:

Rear-engine, rear-wheel drive (RWD) - Incorrect. Datsun 280Z is Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive (FR).

Styling:

Iconic 'Z' car styling, characterized by a long hood, short rear deck, and sleek fastback profile.

Engine Type:

Inline-6 cylinder, fuel-injected engine.

Target User:

Owners and technicians seeking detailed, factory-level repair and maintenance information for the 1977 Datsun 280Z.

Benefit:

Empowers users with the knowledge to perform accurate repairs, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting, saving time and money compared to outsourcing all work.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual

Primary Coverage:

1977 Datsun 280Z

Secondary Coverage:

General Datsun Z-car maintenance and repair principles applicable to adjacent model years.

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed information suggests a comprehensive manual, likely exceeding 500 pages. Specific count not provided in product description but implied by 'factory service manual' and 'full service manual' references.

Manual Classification:

Factory-style Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing, valve train.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, troubleshooting.

Ignition System:

Distributor, spark plugs, ignition coil, ignition timing, troubleshooting.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, troubleshooting.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable for market), muffler, pipe routing, emissions control.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, transmission disassembly, assembly, gear shifting mechanisms, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission operation, service, fluid specifications, adjustments.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle, hub bearings, lubrication.

Suspension Front:

Independent suspension, control arms, ball joints, coil springs, shock absorbers, steering linkage, alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Independent rear suspension (IRS), trailing arms, constant velocity joints, shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering (if equipped), fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typically), brake calipers, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, wiring diagrams for charging system.

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, starter solenoid, ignition switch, wiring diagrams for starting system.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, tail lights, turn signals, interior lights, fuse box, wiring diagrams for lighting.

Electrical System Instruments:

Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, warning lights, wiring diagrams.

Electrical System Accessories:

Wipers, washer system, horn, radio, heater controls, power windows (if equipped), wiring diagrams.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, weatherstripping.

Body Interior:

Seat removal and installation, dashboard, center console, door panels, headliner, carpet.

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, air conditioning system (if equipped), controls, refrigerant type (likely R12).

Emissions Control:

Air injection system, PCV system, catalytic converter operation and testing (specific to emissions standards of the target market).

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, fluid level checks, tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics.

Disassembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and separating vehicle components.

Assembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for reassembling vehicle components.

Cleaning:

Procedures for cleaning specific components during overhaul or reassembly.

Reinstalling:

Procedures for refitting components back into the vehicle.

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, including bearing clearance, piston ring gap, valve seat grinding.

Transmission Rebuild:

Complete overhaul of manual and automatic transmissions.

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, brake line replacement, brake bleeding.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Use of multimeters, oscilloscopes, and troubleshooting flowcharts for electrical issues.

Suspension Alignment:

Camber, caster, toe specifications and adjustment procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete component overhaul and troubleshooting.

Target Audience:

Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics with basic electrical and mechanical knowledge.

Content Type:

Step-by-step repair procedures, critical specifications, illustrations/pictures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Functionality:

YES

Searchability:

Implied by PDF format, allowing for keyword searches.

Binding Comparison:

Digital PDF offers instant access and portability, eliminating physical binding differences.

Paper Type Comparison:

Digital PDF bypasses the need for physical paper type considerations.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L28

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2753 cc (2.8 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1 (typical for US market)

Horsepower Gross:

170 hp @ 5600 rpm (US Market)

Torque Gross:

210 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (US Market)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)

Fuel Pump Type:

Electric, in-tank or external

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (Breakerless)

Oil Capacity:

5.5 US Quarts (with filter change)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

DEXRON-III compatible automatic transmission fluid (ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

169.1 inches (4300 mm)

Width:

64.9 inches (1650 mm)

Height:

50.8 inches (1290 mm)

Wheelbase:

90.7 inches (2300 mm)

Front Track:

53.7 inches (1365 mm)

Rear Track:

53.0 inches (1345 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2850-3000 lbs (1293-1361 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly specified, but typically around 3500 lbs.

Wheel Size:

14x5.5J or 15x6J (common options)

Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3 mm (4.5 inch)

Tire Size:

195/70SR14 or 205/60R15 (common sizes)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No standardized modern crash test data available for this era of vehicle. Safety features were basic.

Brakes:

Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes.

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering, optional power steering.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and body structure for its time, integrated roll bar behind seats.

Windshield:

Laminated safety glass.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player option or aftermarket upgrades.

Speakers:

Typically door-mounted or rear-deck mounted speakers.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models.

Ancillary Features:

Power windows (optional), power steering (optional), air conditioning (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first.

Oil Filter Change:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on plug type).

Ignition Timing Adjustment:

Every 15,000 miles or annually.

Valve Lash Adjustment:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.

Engine Oil:

API SF, SG classification; SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (glycol-based)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF (Dexron II/III compatible)

Coolant:

50/50 mixture of Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and distilled water

Rust And Corrosion:

Common issue, particularly in the floor pans, wheel wells, and around the chassis rails. Requires diligent inspection and rust prevention.

Fuel Injection Problems:

Bosch L-Jetronic system can be sensitive. Issues with airflow meter, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, and wiring harness can cause drivability problems.

Rubber And Plastic Degradation:

Age-related deterioration of fuel lines, vacuum hoses, weatherstripping, and bushings is common and requires replacement.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many vehicles of this era, aging wiring and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical faults.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear out, leading to sloppy handling and alignment issues.

Exhaust System Corrosion:

Exhaust manifolds, pipes, and mufflers are susceptible to rust and corrosion.

📚 Vehicle History

Datsun Evolution:

Datsun (Nissan's export brand) established a reputation for reliable, affordable, and capable vehicles, often challenging established European and American manufacturers.

Z Car Lineage:

The 280Z is part of the iconic Datsun/Nissan Z-car lineage, which began with the highly successful 240Z. The 280Z was introduced in 1975, primarily to meet emissions regulations and incorporate fuel injection, with the L28 engine.

S30 Generation:

The S30 chassis, which includes the 240Z, 260Z, and 280Z, spanned from 1969 to 1978 (model years). The 1977 model represents a mature iteration of this platform.

Production Period:

1975-1978 (for the 280Z model)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ranking:

Frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 'Ten Best' lists in its early years (referring to the 240Z lineage), recognized for performance and value.

Collectibility:

Highly collectible classic sports car, appreciated for its driving dynamics, iconic design, and historical significance within the Z-car family.