Historical Significance:
The Datsun 510, often called the 'Poor Man's BMW,' was a revolutionary car for Datsun (Nissan) in the US market, known for its sporty handling and reliable engineering. This manual is critical for preserving these classic vehicles.
Competitors:
Competed against cars like the Ford Cortina, Toyota Corona, and Fiat 124 Sport in its era.
Manual Value:
An inexpensive and essential tool for maintaining, repairing, and maximizing the lifespan of a Datsun 510.
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Primary Focus:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Secondary Focus:
Diagnostics, troubleshooting, electrical systems
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by original factory publication; typically several hundred pages
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed coverage including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components.
Engine Electrical:
Comprehensive information on ignition system, starting system, charging system, and sensor diagnostics.
Emission Control:
Information pertaining to emission control systems relevant to the model years.
Fuel System:
Details on fuel delivery, carburetor (SU or Hitachi), fuel pump, and fuel tank servicing.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component inspection, replacement, and alignment specifications.
Clutch:
Servicing procedures for the clutch assembly, including disc, pressure plate, and release bearing.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul procedures for the manual transaxle.
Transmission Automatic:
Repair and overhaul procedures for the optional automatic transaxle.
Driveshaft Axle:
Information on driveshaft, universal joints, and rear axle servicing.
Steering:
Details on steering gearbox, linkages, and adjustment procedures.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake system inspection, repair, and bleeding procedures.
Body Interior Exterior:
Coverage on body panel repair, trim, upholstery, and glass replacement.
Body Electrical:
Wiring diagrams and troubleshooting for lights, instruments, and accessories.
Restraint System:
Information on seat belts and related components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving common and complex issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine, transmission, and other major component overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for pinpointing faults.
Wiring Schematics:
Complete electrical system wiring diagrams.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Diagrams:
Detailed illustrations and diagrams for all procedures.
Guidance Style:
Step-by-step, numbered instructions with callouts for illustrations.
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1595 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower:
Approximately 96 hp @ 5600 rpm (US spec, depending on tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 104 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (US spec)
Carburetion:
Typically Twin SU HS4 or Hitachi downdraft carburetors, depending on market and year.
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based, points and condenser (later models may have electronic ignition conversions).
Engine Oil Specifications
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)
Type:
3-speed Automatic (Model: Hitachi 3N71A)
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DEXRONยฎ-II (or equivalent specification)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 95.3 inches (2420 mm)
Length:
Approx. 160.6 inches (4080 mm)
Width:
Approx. 63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2150-2300 lbs (975-1043 kg), varies by body style and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies; check specific vehicle placard
Standard Wheel Size:
13-inch steel wheels
Standard Tire Size:
6.00-13 or 165-13
Bolt Pattern:
4 x 114.3 mm (4.5 inch)
Crash Test Data:
No formal crash test ratings comparable to modern standards; vehicle design predates widespread standardized testing.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Dual-circuit hydraulic system.
Seat Belts:
Standard seat belts (lap belts in front, lap belts in rear depending on configuration and year).
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column (designed for impact absorption).
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (typical for the era).
Tune Up:
Every 12,000-24,000 miles or 12-24 months (includes spark plugs, points, condenser, filters).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 24,000-36,000 miles or 24-36 months.
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4, depending on original specification).
Rust:
Prone to rust in common areas: wheel arches, rocker panels, floor pans, and around windows.
Carburetor Tuning:
SU carburetors require periodic adjustment and rebuilding. Hitachi carburetors can be simpler but also need attention.
Electrical Connections:
Older wiring can degrade; connections may become corroded leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items.
Datsun Legacy:
Datsun, the precursor to Nissan in many international markets, established a strong reputation for building reliable, affordable, and engaging vehicles during the 1960s and 70s. The 510 was instrumental in this success.
Generations:
The Datsun 510 is considered to be within its first generation, which ran from 1968 to 1973. It was available in sedan, coupe, and station wagon body styles.
Production Period:
1968-1973
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan (Nissan's Oppama plant), with some assembly in other locations.
