Historical Context:
The Datsun 1400 Saloon, likely a variant or precursor to the popular Sunny/B-series models, represented Datsun's entry into the compact/subcompact sedan market during a period of significant growth for Japanese automotive exports.
Competitors:
Competed with other compact sedans of the era, such as the Toyota Corolla, Mazda Familia, and potentially European offerings like the Ford Escort and Volkswagen Beetle.
Selling Points:
Known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and a straightforward mechanical design, making it a practical and economical choice for many buyers.
Engine:
Detailed service, repair, and diagnostic procedures for the engine. Includes disassembly, assembly, cleaning, and reinstallation.
Transmission:
Service and repair for both manual and automatic transmissions (if applicable for the era/model). Covers clutch, gearbox, and related components.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of the braking system, including hydraulic components, linings, drums/discs, and adjustment procedures.
Electrical:
Detailed diagnosis and repair of the entire electrical system, including starting, charging, ignition, lighting, and accessory circuits. Includes wiring diagrams.
Suspension Steering:
Covers front and rear suspension components, steering gear, alignment specifications, and related maintenance.
Fuel Emission:
Details on the fuel delivery system, carburetor (or early fuel injection if applicable), and emission control systems for compliance.
Cooling Lubrication:
Information on the cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat) and lubrication points with recommended fluid types and capacities.
Chassis Body:
Procedures for bodywork, chassis maintenance, and structural component repair. Includes interior and exterior trim.
Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and scheduled maintenance items.
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine, transmission, and other major component overhauls.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics.
Engine Code Family:
A-series (Most likely, e.g., A14 for later 1400cc models, or a precursor like the E-series for earlier versions)
Displacement:
Approximately 1400cc (Actual displacement may vary based on specific engine variant within the '1400' designation)
Horsepower:
Estimated 65-75 HP (Typical for 1.4L engines of this era)
Torque:
Estimated 75-85 lb-ft (Typical for 1.4L engines of this era)
Fuel Delivery:
Likely single-barrel carburetor (e.g., Hitachi or Mikuni)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating suitable for its time, likely lower than modern standards)
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Tune Up:
Recommended annually or every 12,000-15,000 miles (20,000-24,000 km), including spark plugs, points, condenser, and filter checks.
Engine Oil:
API SF or SG grade, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (Check manual for exact specification and capacity)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity around 5-7 liters.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (Capacity approx. 2 liters)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (Check manual for exact type and system capacity)
Rust Corrosion:
Common issue in older vehicles, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and floor pans. Requires regular inspection and treatment.
Carburetor Issues:
Wear and tear on carburetors can lead to rough idling, poor fuel economy, and starting problems. Rebuild kits and expert tuning are often necessary.
Ignition System:
Distributor points, condenser, and ignition coil can degrade over time, affecting spark quality and engine performance. Regular maintenance is crucial.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear out, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
Datsun Legacy:
Datsun, the precursor to Nissan, was renowned for building reliable, affordable, and innovative vehicles that challenged established automotive giants.
Platform Context:
Part of Datsun's compact car lineage, likely preceding or overlapping with the early generations of the Nissan Sunny (Datsun B110/B210 series) which became a global success.
Manufacturing Era:
Late 1960s (Specifically 1969 model year)
