🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

510

Year:

1972

Chassis Codes:

PL510 (Sedan/Wagon), H510 (Coupe)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Datsun 510, often referred to as the 'Bluebird,' was a highly successful compact car that challenged established European and American imports with its robust engineering, excellent handling, and affordable price. It enjoyed significant popularity in North America and was a staple in racing circles.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Toyota Corona, Mazda Familia, Volkswagen Beetle, Ford Pinto, and Chevrolet Vega. The 510 distinguished itself with its sophisticated independent rear suspension and precise steering, offering a driving experience often compared to more expensive European sedans.

Features:

Monocoque construction, independent front and rear suspension (a rarity in its class), rack-and-pinion steering (on some models), and reliable inline-four engines. Its straightforward design and excellent parts availability contributed to its longevity and enduring appeal.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Ignition System:

Yes

Cooling System:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Drivetrain:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Body And Chassis:

Yes

Interior:

Yes

Heating And Air Conditioning:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Maintenance:

Yes

Diagnostics:

Yes

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (Exact page count not specified, but described as 'very detailed')

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Printability:

Full Printable

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, including piston, ring, connecting rod, crankshaft, cylinder head, valve train, and block assembly. Torque specifications for critical fasteners.

Engine Performance:

Covers carburetor tuning, ignition timing, and emission control systems relevant to the 1972 model year.

Transmission Manual:

Repair and overhaul procedures for the 4-speed manual transmission, including clutch assembly, gear shifting mechanisms, and bearing replacement.

Drivetrain:

Covers rear axle assembly, driveshaft, universal joints, and differential maintenance and repair.

Suspension Front:

Detailed instructions for front suspension components, including ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, shock absorbers, and alignment procedures.

Suspension Rear:

Covers rear leaf spring replacement, shock absorber servicing, and rear end alignment.

Steering System:

Service and repair for the recirculating ball steering gearbox, including lubrication, adjustment, and component replacement.

Brake System:

Covers front disc and rear drum brake systems, including caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, pad/shoe replacement, brake fluid flush, and master cylinder servicing.

Electrical Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, turn signal, and interior lighting system diagnostics and repair.

Electrical Ignition:

Distributor, coil, spark plug, and wiring diagnostics for the ignition system.

Electrical Charging:

Alternator testing, voltage regulator adjustment, and battery charging system troubleshooting.

Electrical Starting:

Starter motor operation, solenoid testing, and battery cable inspection.

Body Panels:

Procedures for body panel alignment, rust repair guidance, and door/window mechanism servicing.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, and general inspection procedures.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly.

Transmission Overhaul:

Detailed guide for dismantling, cleaning, inspecting, and reassembling the transmission.

Brake Service:

Master cylinder rebuild, caliper/wheel cylinder servicing, brake line replacement, and bleeding procedures.

Suspension Repair:

Ball joint replacement, shock absorber installation, and bushing replacement.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnosis of electrical faults using wiring diagrams, including common electrical issues and their solutions.

Carburetor Adjustment:

Step-by-step guide for adjusting and rebuilding the Hitachi SU carburetors common to the 510.

Tune Up Procedures:

Ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, and spark plug replacement for optimal engine performance.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Standard:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing clear diagrams and text.

Type:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L20B (Common for 1972, though L16 was prevalent in earlier models)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)

Displacement:

1973 cc (1.8L, typically L18 or L20B variants for '72 models)

Horsepower:

Approximately 90-110 hp (SAE Gross, depending on tuning and specific engine variant)

Torque:

Approximately 105-120 lb-ft (SAE Gross, depending on tuning and specific engine variant)

Carburetion:

Typically twin Hitachi SU carburetors or a single Hitachi downdraft carburetor, depending on market and trim. Manual specifies procedures for both.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (as emissions standards began to shift)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, but available on some models)

Clutch:

Dry single-plate clutch, hydraulic actuation.

Gear Ratios:

Manual transmission gear ratios are detailed within the manual for specific model variants.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (Consult manual for exact Datsun specification)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (Consult manual for exact Datsun specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

100.0 inches (2540 mm)

Length:

164.0 inches (4166 mm)

Width:

63.6 inches (1615 mm)

Height:

54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,200 - 2,400 lbs (1000 - 1090 kg), depending on body style and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Vehicle safety standards and testing were less stringent in 1972. The manual focuses on mechanical safety systems and proper maintenance for reliable operation rather than crash test ratings.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Manual details maintenance for optimal performance.

Steering:

Responsive rack-and-pinion steering (on some models) contributed to active safety by providing precise control.

Seatbelts:

Front seatbelts were standard. Manual may cover inspection and adjustment.

Body Construction:

Unitized body construction, designed for structural integrity within its era.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio (optional) with basic speaker configuration. Manual covers removal and installation of audio components.

Features:

Minimal driver assistance features by modern standards. Focus is on basic mechanical and electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (Recommended, consult manual for specifics).

Filter Replacement:

Oil filter with every oil change. Air filter and fuel filter as per manual schedule.

Tune Up:

Every 12,000 miles or 12 months, including spark plugs, points, condenser, and ignition timing.

Valve Adjustment:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months (Due to solid lifters).

Engine Oil:

API SF/CD or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (Consult manual for exact Datsun recommendation).

Coolant:

50/50 mix of Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Heavy Duty Brake Fluid.

Rust:

Prone to rust in common areas: wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, and around windows. Manual may offer repair guidance.

Carburetor Issues:

Hitachi SU carburetors can become finicky and require regular adjustment or rebuilding due to wear.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring and components can lead to intermittent electrical issues, which the manual's diagnostic section aims to resolve.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items in the suspension system.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Datsun, the predecessor to Nissan, built a reputation for producing reliable, economical, and fun-to-drive vehicles. The 510 solidified this reputation and became an icon of Japanese automotive engineering.

Evolution:

The Datsun 510 was introduced in 1968 and continued through 1973 in its first generation. The 1972 model year featured minor updates and refinements over earlier versions, often including improved emissions controls and styling tweaks.

Production Years:

1968-1973 (First Generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (Primary), assembly plants in Australia, Mexico, and South Africa.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The Datsun 510 was widely praised by automotive journalists for its excellent handling, sporty driving dynamics, and value for money. It was often lauded as a more sophisticated alternative to domestic offerings and a serious competitor to European imports.

Racing Success:

Achieved considerable success in motorsport, particularly in SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) racing, where its robust chassis and tunable engine made it a dominant force in its class.