🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

Sports / Fairlady Roadster

Production Years Covered:

1960-1970

Chassis Codes Covered:

SP 310, SPL 310, SP 311, SPL 311, SR 311, SRL 311

Engine Codes Covered:

1500cc (Nissan R Series), 1600cc (Nissan R Series), 2000cc (Nissan R Series)

👋 Introduction

Original Market:

The Datsun Sports / Fairlady Roadster was a successful entry into the compact sports car market, competing with vehicles like the Triumph Spitfire and MG Midget, offering reliable Japanese engineering with a stylish design.

Segment:

Lightweight, affordable two-seater convertible sports car.

Vehicle Strengths:

Stylish design, responsive handling, increasingly potent engines over its production run, and Datsun's reputation for reliability.

Value To Owner:

This comprehensive manual provides owners and mechanics with the detailed information required to maintain, diagnose, and repair these classic Datsun roadsters, ensuring their longevity and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Workshop Service and Repair

Included Documentation:

Parts Catalog, Wiring Diagrams, Owner's Manuals

Total Pages:

1500++

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English (implied from typical factory manuals of the era)

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

1500cc, 1600cc, 2000cc variants; Lubrication, Rocker Mechanism, Piston, Ignition Timing, Fuel System, Cooling System

Fuel System:

Twin Carburettor (HJB 38W Type) Adjustment and Inspection

Electrical System:

Alternator, Generator, Regulator, Starter Motor, Wiring Diagrams

Drivetrain:

Clutch, Transmission (4-speed and 5-speed), Propeller Shaft & Universal Joints, Front Axle, Rear Axle

Chassis Steering Brakes:

Chassis Construction, Steering, Brakes

Engine Operations:

Service operations with engine in position, Removal & Refitting

Troubleshooting:

Dedicated Troubleshooting List

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF

Interactivity:

Fully Bookmarked & Interactive Menu

Quality Assessment:

High quality digital reproduction of original factory documents, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding For Digital:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type For Digital:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

1500Cc:

Nissan R-series OHV inline-4. Specific displacement around 1497cc. Power output typically in the 70-85 hp range depending on tuning and carburation.

1600Cc:

Nissan R-series OHV inline-4. Specific displacement around 1595cc. Increased power output compared to the 1500cc. Details on camshaft profiles and carburetion are crucial.

2000Cc:

Nissan R-series OHC inline-4. Specific displacement around 1982cc. Known for significantly improved performance, often producing 130-145 hp. This engine was a key upgrade for enthusiasts.

Carburetion:

Commonly equipped with twin SU carburetors (e.g., HJB 38W Type) or Hitachi carburetors, requiring specific tuning and synchronization procedures detailed in the manual.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (as per era specifications; modern equivalents should be considered).

Spark Plugs:

Specific spark plug types and gap settings will be detailed. For example, NGK or Champion equivalents would be common.

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox Options:

Primarily 4-speed manual transmission. The later SPL 311 and SR 311 models also offered a 5-speed manual transmission option, significantly improving highway drivability.

Automatic Transmission:

Not typically offered or common in these early sports roadsters; manual transmission was the standard and defining characteristic.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, diaphragm spring clutch, serviced by adjusting clutch free play and replacing friction disc and pressure plate as needed.

Transmission Fluid:

Typically GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or SAE 75W-90, check manual for exact specifications).

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

Two-door convertible roadster.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1900-2100 lbs (860-950 kg) depending on engine and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specifies maximum permissible weight including vehicle, passengers, and cargo. Detailed in the manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

As a vehicle from the 1960s, formal crash safety ratings in the modern sense are not applicable. The manual would detail structural integrity and any specific safety-related components of the era.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes were common on later models (e.g., 1600cc and 2000cc), while earlier models might have featured all-around drum brakes. Brake fluid specifications (DOT 3) and bleeding procedures are vital.

Seatbelts:

While not standard on all early models, seatbelt anchor points and installation guidance would be critical, as would be information on replacing seatbelt mechanisms.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM radio was common. The manual would cover radio removal, installation, and basic electrical connections.

Features:

No electronic driver assistance systems as we know them today. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.

Features:

N/A

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typical intervals would be every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on usage. Manual will specify exact mileage and time intervals.

Tune Up:

Regular tune-ups including spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor synchronization, and filter changes are critical for optimal performance and fuel economy.

Engine Oil:

API SG or SF classifications, viscosity grades like 10W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Manual specifies exact type and capacity (e.g., 4.5-5 quarts).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Capacity will be specified in the manual.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, with emphasis on keeping the system clean and moisture-free. Capacity is small but critical.

Rust And Corrosion:

Common issue for vehicles of this era; careful inspection and preventative measures are essential. Manual provides guidance on body panel repair.

Carburetor Issues:

Tuning and synchronization of twin carburetors can be complex. The manual details specific procedures and common problems.

Electrical System Reliability:

Older wiring harnesses can degrade. The manual's wiring diagrams are invaluable for diagnosis and repair.

Suspension And Steering Wear:

Components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings are subject to wear and require regular inspection and replacement as outlined in the service schedule.

📚 Vehicle History

Datsun Motorsport:

Datsun (Nissan) had a growing reputation for building robust and capable vehicles. The Fairlady Roadster was a key part of their effort to establish themselves in the global sports car market.

Design Changes:

The Fairlady Roadster evolved from the SP/SPL 310 series (introduced in 1961 with 1500cc engine) to the more powerful SP/SPL/SR/SRL 311 series (introduced in 1965, featuring 1600cc and later 2000cc engines and improved chassis/styling).

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Impact:

The Datsun Sports / Fairlady Roadster helped establish Datsun as a credible manufacturer of sporty and enjoyable automobiles, contributing to the brand's global expansion.

Owner Satisfaction:

Highly regarded by enthusiasts for its driving pleasure, unique styling, and relative affordability compared to European contemporaries.

Manual Quality:

Recognized as a crucial resource for preserving and maintaining these classic vehicles, enabling owners to perform accurate and effective repairs.