🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

Sports (SP) / Fairlady (SR) / Roadster (SR)

Chassis Code:

SP310 / SP311 / SR311

Generation:

First Generation (SP310/SP311/SR311)

Generation Years:

1961-1970

Engine Codes:

G15, R16, U20

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

A vital resource for owners and enthusiasts of the Datsun Sports (SP310/SP311/SR311) series, offering professional-grade repair information for classic Japanese sports cars.

Target Audience:

Classic car enthusiasts, Datsun Sports owners, vintage automotive mechanics, and restorers seeking authentic and accurate repair guidance.

Competitive Analysis:

Positioned as a 'complete' and 'best' manual, differentiating from incomplete or inferior versions, emphasizing factory-level detail for DIY and professional use.

Key Features:

Comprehensive A-Z coverage, step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, professional quality, instant download, cost savings on repairs, enhanced vehicle upkeep.

Usability:

Designed for easy use on PC, Tablet, or Laptop, with the ability to print specific sections or the entire manual as needed.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Years:

All models and repairs A-Z, inferred to cover the production span of the SP310/SP311/SR311 series (1961-1970)

Bodywork And Chassis:

Coverage extends to frame repair, body panel replacement (fenders, doors, hood, trunk), rust repair techniques, weatherstripping, interior trim removal and installation, and exhaust system maintenance.

Model Variants Covered:

Inferred to cover SP310, SP311, and SR311 chassis codes, encompassing all engine variants (G15, R16, U20) and body styles (roadster, coupe).

Page Count Estimate:

Likely 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory workshop manuals of this era and scope)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

General Information, Specifications, Maintenance, Engine (Removal/Installation, Fuel System, Lubrication, Cooling, Combustion, Lubrication System, Cylinder Head/Valves, Crankcase/Piston/Cylinder, Crankshaft/Transmission/Balancer), Gearbox & Clutch, Transmission System, Front Wheel and Steering System, Rear Wheel System, Fenders and Exhaust Pipe, Chassis, Cooling System, Fuel Injection System (if applicable to later models), Braking System, Suspension, Electrical System, Body & Fixtures, Frame/Body Panels/Exhaust System, Wheels/Tires/Brakes, Battery/Charging System, Ignition System, Electric Starter, Lights/Meters/Switches, Wiring Diagrams.

Electrical System Details:

Comprehensive coverage including battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), ignition system (distributor, coil, spark plugs), starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, turn signals), instrumentation (gauges, warning lights), switches, and wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Braking System Details:

Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic system components including master cylinder, wheel cylinders (drum brakes), calipers (disc brakes), brake lines, hoses, parking brake mechanism, and adjustment procedures. Includes specifications for pad/shoe wear limits.

Fuel System Coverage:

Includes fuel pump operation, fuel tank and lines, fuel filter replacement, carburetor rebuilding and adjustment, fuel injection system diagnostics (if applicable to later SP311/SR311 variants).

Steering System Details:

Covers steering box adjustment, linkages, steering column, and front wheel alignment specifications. Steering is recirculating ball type.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step instructions for simple to complex repairs, exploded views and diagrams, periodic checks and adjustments, troubleshooting.

Engine Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, measurement of components (e.g., piston ring gap, bearing clearance, valve lash), reassembly, and initial startup. Includes torque specifications for all critical fasteners.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Detailed troubleshooting sections for common drivability issues, electrical problems, starting difficulties, and mechanical failures, often presented in a flowchart or symptom-cause-remedy format.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing all major and minor components, from engine internals and transmission gears to body trim pieces and electrical switches.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds, mirroring factory workshop manuals used by professional mechanics.

Suspension Diagnosis:

Includes procedures for inspecting and replacing suspension components such as ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, shock absorbers, and leaf springs. Provides alignment specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

PDF format allows for keyword searching, facilitating quick access to specific repair information.

Compatibility:

Win/MAC/Linux compatible PDF reader.

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Options:

1.5L (G15) Inline-4, 1.6L (R16) Inline-4, 2.0L (U20) Inline-4

Engine Block Material:

Cast iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum (for the U20, overhead cam engine)

G15 Horsepower:

Approx. 71-85 HP (depending on carburation/tuning)

R16 Horsepower:

Approx. 90-96 HP

U20 Horsepower:

Approx. 130-145 HP (especially with twin carburetors)

U20 Torque:

Approx. 130-135 lb-ft (176-183 Nm)

Fuel System:

Carbureted (e.g., SU, Mikuni, Weber - depending on model and market). Later models, particularly the SR311 with the U20 engine, may feature dual carburetors.

Carburetor Types Covered:

Likely includes details for SU carburetors (common on earlier models) and potentially other aftermarket or factory options like Mikuni or Weber for performance tuning.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual (initially), later upgraded to 5-speed manual on some models/variants.

Optional Transmission:

Not typically offered with automatic transmissions.

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate (manual operation)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-seater convertible roadster, 2+2 coupe (less common, particularly SP310).

Curb Weight Estimate:

Approx. 950 - 1100 kg (2100 - 2400 lbs) depending on engine and specific model.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings available for this era of vehicle from modern agencies. Safety features are basic for the time.

Active Features:

Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes (early models) / front disc, rear drum brakes (later models), steering.

Passive Features:

Lap belts (optional or standard depending on market and year), basic body structure for the era.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio (often aftermarket upgrades in surviving examples). No modern infotainment features.

Driver Assistance Features:

None (typical for vehicles of this era).

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (5,000 - 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify precise intervals.

Tune Up Intervals:

Regular tune-ups including spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment, and distributor maintenance typically recommended every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is generally recommended. Specific viscosity may vary with climate. Manual will list exact API service classification and viscosity.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Manual will specify capacity and type.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for precise specification).

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual will confirm specific GL rating and viscosity. Datsun specified specific Nissan or equivalent fluids.

Common Issues:

Rust (especially in wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans), carburetor tuning and synchronization issues, ignition system maintenance, clutch wear, cooling system leaks, electrical component aging, suspension wear.

Steering And Suspension Wear:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, kingpins, and bushings can lead to imprecise steering and handling. The manual will provide procedures for diagnosis and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Datsun (Nissan's export brand) aimed to compete in the global automotive market with reliable and affordable vehicles, including sports cars. The Sports series built upon earlier Fairlady models.

Datsun Philosophy:

Datsun's focus on delivering value, reliability, and performance, especially in export markets, is embodied in the Sports series.

Model Evolution:

The SP310 (initially using the G15 engine) was introduced in 1961, evolving into the SP311 with the more powerful R16 engine. The final iteration, the SR311, featured the higher-performance U20 engine and often a 5-speed transmission, becoming the most potent version.

Design Influence:

The Datsun Sports models drew inspiration from European sports car designs of the era, offering a stylish and sporty alternative in the affordable segment.

Production Years:

1961-1970

Manufacturing Location:

Japan