🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

Fairlady Roadster (SP311/SR311)

Nickname:

Datsun Roadster

Year Covered:

1970

Model Generation Code:

SP311/SR311 (Series II, late production)

Chassis Code Examples:

SR311

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Datsun Roadster owners, classic car enthusiasts, mechanics specializing in vintage Japanese vehicles, restoration shops.

Value Proposition:

Provides the essential, high-quality information needed to maintain, repair, and restore the Datsun 1600/2000 Roadster, saving significant costs compared to relying solely on professional mechanics or incomplete resources.

Comparison To Alternatives:

Offers superior completeness and detail compared to generic Haynes or Chilton manuals for the period, aiming for factory-level accuracy and breadth of coverage.

Digital Delivery:

Instant download upon purchase, eliminating shipping costs and wait times.

Professional Quality:

Designed to be the most comprehensive and reliable resource available for this specific vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1970 Datsun 1600/2000 Roadster (SP311/SR311 models)

Secondary Coverage Notes:

Likely includes significant overlap with late 1960s models (1968-1969) due to minimal changes in this late production phase.

Estimated Page Count:

Refer to actual product for definitive page count, but professional quality manuals of this era typically range from 300-700 pages.

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Service & Repair Workshop Manual

Comparison To Factory:

Equivalent to factory workshop manuals used by dealerships and independent repair shops.

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows, macOS, Linux

Accessibility:

Viewable on PC, Tablet, Laptop; Printable.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine (1600cc & 2000cc variants), Fuel System (carburetor), Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Gearbox (4-speed manual), Driveshaft, Rear Differential.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front Suspension (independent, coil springs, wishbones), Rear Suspension (live axle, leaf springs), Steering System (worm and roller/recirculating ball), Frame and Body Structure.

Braking System:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Hydraulic System, Parking Brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, Charging System (generator/alternator), Ignition System (distributor, coil, spark plugs), Starting System (starter motor), Lighting System (headlights, taillights, signals), Gauges and Meters, Switches, Wiring Diagrams (comprehensive).

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Fenders, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Windshield, Interior Trim, Seats, Dashboard.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, coolant flushes, lubrication points, periodic inspections and adjustments.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul (top and bottom end), carburetor tuning and rebuilding, clutch replacement, gearbox rebuild, brake caliper/cylinder servicing, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel alignment and repair.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting charts.

Disassembly And Assembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation, including exploded views and diagrams.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds.

Visual Aids:

Highly detailed exploded diagrams, line drawings, and potentially photographic illustrations to guide repairs.

Specification Detail:

Provides precise technical specifications for all major components and systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval (depending on scan quality).

Print Capability:

Designed to be printed, allowing users to create physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.

Recommended Binding:

Comb binding or professional coil binding for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Ideal Paper Stock:

Durable, coated paper to resist grease and wear in a workshop setting.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1600:

R16

Displacement 1600:

1595 cc (97.3 cu in)

Configuration 1600:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Bore X Stroke 1600:

81.0 mm x 78.0 mm (3.19 in x 3.07 in)

Horsepower 1600:

Approx. 96 hp (71 kW) at 5600 rpm (SAE Gross, depending on carburation and tune)

Torque 1600:

Approx. 97 lb-ft (131 Nm) at 3600 rpm (SAE Gross, depending on carburation and tune)

Engine Code 2000:

R20

Displacement 2000:

1982 cc (120.9 cu in)

Configuration 2000:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Bore X Stroke 2000:

84.0 mm x 90.0 mm (3.31 in x 3.54 in)

Horsepower 2000:

Approx. 130-145 hp (97-108 kW) at 6000 rpm (SAE Gross, depending on carburation and tune, e.g., SU carburetors or Weber DCOE)

Torque 2000:

Approx. 125-135 lb-ft (169-183 Nm) at 4000 rpm (SAE Gross, depending on carburation and tune)

Fuel Delivery 1600:

Typically single or twin Hitachi downdraft carburetors (e.g., 1.5" Hitachi) or SU carburetors.

Fuel Delivery 2000:

Typically twin Hitachi downdraft carburetors or twin SU carburetors (e.g., 1.75" or 2.0"), optional performance tuning with Weber DCOE.

Fuel Type Recommendation:

Unleaded gasoline (octane rating as per original specifications, though premium unleaded is generally recommended for vintage engines).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual Synchromesh Transmission

Optional Gearbox Availability:

While not common in 1970 for the US market, some export markets or modifications might exist. This manual would cover the standard 4-speed.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual, crucial for restoration and performance tuning. Typically close-ratio for sporty feel.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate diaphragm clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 86.6 inches (2199 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 153.5 inches (3899 mm)

Overall Width:

Approx. 60.6 inches (1539 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 50.6 inches (1285 mm) (soft top up)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,900 - 2,100 lbs (862 - 953 kg), depending on engine and equipment.

Weight Distribution:

Known for excellent 50/50 weight distribution contributing to its handling characteristics.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No modern crash test data available as vehicle predates standardized testing protocols. Safety features were minimal by today's standards.

Active Safety:

Responsive handling, powerful (for the era) disc front brakes, good visibility.

Passive Safety:

Robust chassis construction for its time, padded dashboard (late models), potentially lap belts (standard or optional depending on market).

💡 Technology Features

Original Infotainment:

Basic AM radio (optional), analogue gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature, oil pressure).

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern definition. Relies on driver skill and vehicle feedback.

Connectivity Features:

N/A

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first. Manual will provide precise intervals.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, ignition timing, and carburetor adjustments recommended every 6,000-12,000 miles (9,600-19,300 km).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH rated multi-viscosity oil, e.g., 10W-30 or 20W-50, depending on ambient temperature. Manual will specify viscosity and capacity.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with distilled water. Manual specifies mix ratio and capacity.

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil. Manual will specify viscosity and capacity (e.g., 80W-90).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Manual will specify type and reservoir capacity.

Common Wear Items:

Carburetor tuning (especially Hitachi), clutch wear, front suspension bushings, rear main seal oil leaks, ignition system components (points, condenser, coil), rust in common areas (wheel arches, floor pans, sills).

Performance Considerations:

Original carburetors can be finicky; proper tuning is key. The 2000cc engine is significantly more powerful and desirable for performance. Attention to cooling system maintenance is critical.

📚 Vehicle History

Datsun History:

Datsun, Nissan's export brand, gained significant popularity in the 1960s and 70s for producing reliable, sporty, and affordable vehicles, with the Roadster being a key early success.

Roadster Lineage:

Evolved from the earlier Fairlady series (SPL210). The SP310 (1500cc) gave way to the SP311 (1600cc) and then the SR311 (2000cc). The 1970 model represents the final iteration before its discontinuation.

Design Philosophy:

Designed as a stylish, affordable, two-seater sports convertible, often compared to contemporary European sports cars like the MGB and Triumph Spitfire, but with Japanese engineering and reliability.

Production Years:

1961-1970

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reputation:

Highly regarded as a classic Japanese sports car, praised for its styling, handling, and affordability in its era. Now a sought-after collectible.

Classic Car Ratings:

Consistently receives high marks from classic car enthusiasts and publications for its driving experience and design.

Original Certifications:

Compliant with applicable safety and emissions standards of the 1970 model year in its target markets.