🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

510 PL521

Year:

1971

Body Style:

Pickup Truck

Generation Code:

PL521

Chassis Code:

PL521

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Datsun 510 PL521 owners, DIY mechanics, restoration enthusiasts, and repair shops.

Advantage:

Provides professional-level, factory-accurate information for comprehensive vehicle maintenance and repair, enabling cost savings.

Authenticity:

Original Datsun workshop manual, same as used by local service/repair shops.

Completeness:

Complete and intact, with no missing or corrupt parts/pages.

Accessibility:

Instant PDF download for immediate access to repair information.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types for 1971 Datsun 510 PL521

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but described as extensive)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, diagnostics, and repair.

Transmission Service Repair:

Comprehensive coverage for transmission maintenance, diagnostics, and repair.

Brake System:

Maintenance, inspection, and repair of the braking system components.

Wiring Diagram:

Includes detailed wiring diagrams for electrical system troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Diagnosis and repair of all vehicle electrical components and circuits.

Suspension:

Maintenance and repair procedures for the suspension system.

Steering:

Service and repair information for the steering system.

Cooling System:

Maintenance and repair of the engine cooling system.

Fuel System:

Service and repair for fuel injection and fuel delivery systems.

Emission System:

Information on the emission control system and its service.

Heater Air Conditioner:

Service and repair of the HVAC system.

Engine Control System:

Diagnosis and repair of the engine management and control systems.

Chassis Body:

Information on chassis components and bodywork repair.

Restraint System:

Details on the vehicle's restraint systems (e.g., seat belts).

Interior:

Information related to interior components and their servicing.

Differential Drive:

Service and repair of the differential and drive axle components.

Axle:

Service and repair information for vehicle axles.

General Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks and schedules.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic guidance for diagnosing and resolving vehicle problems.

Periodic Lubrication:

Details on lubrication points and schedules.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for various repair tasks.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed guidance on taking apart and reassembling vehicle components.

Cleaning Reinstalling:

Procedures for cleaning and reinstalling parts.

Depth:

Professional-level diagnostics, maintenance, and repair.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on tools and techniques used by professional technicians.

Illustrations Photos:

Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos for visual guidance.

Technical Specifications:

Inclusion of critical specifications for various components and systems.

Notes Cautions Warnings:

Critical information highlighted through notes, cautions, and warnings.

Indexed Content:

Numbered table of contents for quick information retrieval.

Part Identification:

Enlarged insets for detailed examination and identification of parts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Printable:

Full Printable

Zoom Functionality:

Zoom In/OUT

Binding:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Operating Systems:

Compatible with All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder (details vary based on specific engine options for PL521)

Displacement:

Likely 1.3L (J13) or 1.5L (J15) OHV, or potentially the 1.6L (R16) SOHC from the 510 car variant, though PL521 typically used J-series. Manual covers 'All Engines'.

Horsepower Range:

Typically 60-80 HP, depending on engine and tuning.

Torque Range:

Torque figures vary by engine, but generally in the 70-90 lb-ft range.

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (single or dual barrel typically).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (though leaded was common in 1971, manual would specify recommendations).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Manual Transmission (4-speed typical)

Transmission Type:

Automatic Transmission (less common, likely 3-speed)

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.3 inches (2649 mm) for PL521

Length:

Varies by configuration, but around 166 inches (4216 mm) for standard bed

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2200-2500 lbs (1000-1134 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

N/A for this era; crash safety standards were nascent.

Brakes:

Front Disc, Rear Drum (typical for 510 platform, PL521 may vary slightly)

Restraints:

Lap and shoulder belts (driver/passenger), potentially basic interior padding.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM radio, often with a single speaker. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Driver Aids:

None in the modern sense. Safety features are limited to basic passive systems.

Connectivity Features:

N/A. No provisions for external connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide exact schedule.

Tune Up:

Recommended at intervals such as 15,000-30,000 miles, including spark plugs, points, and condenser checks.

Engine Oil Type:

Likely SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API service SF or SG equivalent). Manual to confirm exact specification.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Gear oil, GL-4 specification, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual to confirm.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Rust Corrosion:

Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas exposed to salt or moisture. Body panels, frame rails, and suspension components are susceptible.

Carburetor Issues:

Age can lead to worn seals, jets, and diaphragms in the carburetor, causing rough idling or poor fuel economy.

Ignition System:

Points and condenser ignition systems require periodic adjustment and replacement. Distributor caps and rotors can degrade over time.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, and shock absorbers are common wear items.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Datsun, a brand of Nissan Motor Corporation, known for reliable and affordable vehicles.

510 Lineage:

The PL521 pickup truck shared many mechanical components and styling cues with the popular Datsun 510 sedan ('Bluebird').

Production Period:

Datsun 510 PL521 pickups were produced from the late 1960s through the mid-1970s.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Significance:

The Datsun 510 platform (including the PL521 pickup) is considered an iconic car of the 1970s, known for its reliability, affordability, and surprisingly capable handling, especially in the sedan/coupe form.

Reliability Perception:

Generally good for its era, but dependent on maintenance and care. The provided manual aids in maintaining this reliability.