🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

210

Chassis Code:

B310

Year:

1977

Generation:

First Generation (B310)

Engine Codes:

A12, A14, A15 (common for the era, though not explicitly stated for this manual, these are highly probable)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Datsun 210 B310 Series was positioned as an affordable, fuel-efficient, and reliable compact car in the late 1970s. It competed with other Japanese and American economy cars of the era, offering a practical and economical mode of transportation.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Mazda GLC, Ford Pinto, and Chevrolet Chevette. The B310 Datsun 210 was known for its distinctive styling, good handling for its class, and efficient powertrains.

Key Features:

The 1977 Datsun 210 B310 Series offered a range of body styles including sedans, coupes, and wagons, catering to diverse consumer needs. Known for its lightweight construction, dependable Nissan engines, and relatively nimble handling.

Value Proposition:

Enables owners to perform their own servicing and repairs, potentially saving $50-$60 per hour on shop labor costs. Provides professional-level knowledge for DIY enthusiasts.

Target Audience:

Datsun 210 B310 Series owners, classic car enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Styles, General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (estimated 800-1200 based on typical factory service manuals of this era and scope)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Authenticity:

Actual Genuine Factory Repair Service Manual, not a third-party reproduction.

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print individual pages or the entire manual as needed.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (EFI and Carburetor depending on specific model variant), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual and Automatic), Drivetrain (Axles, Differential), Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Electrical System (Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Distribution), HVAC System (Heater and A/C), Body and Chassis, Restraint System (Seatbelts), Interior Components, Emissions Control System.

Procedures Included:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake system bleeding and repair, suspension component replacement (shocks, ball joints, tie rods), steering system service, cooling system flushing and hose replacement, fuel system cleaning and component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting and repair, body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, differential and axle service.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Suitable for both novice DIY enthusiasts and experienced professional technicians.

Troubleshooting:

Advanced troubleshooting guide included to diagnose and correct problems across all vehicle systems, with specific sections dedicated to common issues.

Illustrations:

Contains all necessary illustrations, diagrams, drawings, and photos to guide users through repair procedures. Includes enlarged inset views for detailed examination of parts.

Electrical Diagrams:

Detailed wiring diagrams are provided for ease of diagnosing and repairing the vehicle's electrical system.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High Resolution, Printable (all pages)

Binding Type:

Digital Download (printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Search Functionality:

Searchable PDF format allows for quick retrieval of specific information.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

A12 (1.2-liter OHC inline-4), A14 (1.4-liter OHC inline-4), A15 (1.5-liter OHC inline-4). Specific engine variant depends on the vehicle's original specification.

Performance:

Horsepower typically ranged from 60-80 HP depending on engine size and configuration (carbureted). Torque figures were generally in the 65-85 lb-ft range.

Fuel System:

Primarily carbureted systems (single or dual barrel). Some later models or specific markets may have featured early fuel injection (EFI), though less common for 1977.

Engine Construction:

Inline-4 cylinder, Overhead Cam (OHC) design, cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head.

Ignition System:

Conventional distributor-based ignition system with points and condenser, or possibly early electronic ignition depending on trim and market.

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with a radiator, thermostat, water pump, and fan.

Emission Controls:

Early emission control systems including Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) were likely implemented to meet regulations of the era.

Displacement:

1.2L, 1.4L, 1.5L (depending on specific engine variant)

Engine Management:

Carburetor adjustment and rebuilding, ignition timing adjustments, basic troubleshooting of electronic ignition components (if applicable).

Timing Belt Chain:

OHC engines utilize a timing chain for camshaft drive, known for its durability but requiring periodic checks for tension and wear.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Optional:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (likely a Nissan/Jatco unit)

Features:

Robust and relatively simple mechanical designs for both manual and automatic transmissions, prioritizing reliability and ease of maintenance.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for manual and automatic transmissions are detailed within the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior:

Compact car dimensions. Specific length, width, and height varied by body style (sedan, coupe, wagon). Overall length likely in the range of 155-165 inches, width around 63 inches, height around 54 inches.

Interior:

Designed for practical passenger and cargo space within a compact footprint. Seating for 4-5 occupants.

Cargo:

Trunk space sufficient for a compact car. Wagon models would offer significantly more cargo volume with folding rear seats.

Weights:

Curb weight typically between 1800-2100 lbs, depending on body style and equipment.

Wheelbase:

Approximately 90.5 inches, varying slightly by body style.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

Safety standards of the 1970s. Likely included basic safety features but not modern advanced safety ratings.

Active Features:

Disc front brakes, drum rear brakes, dual-circuit hydraulic brake system, standard seat belts.

Passive Features:

Collapsible steering column, laminated windshield, reinforced safety glass.

Brakes:

Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes. Rear: Drum Brakes. Power assisted brakes may be optional on some trims.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM radio, potentially with cassette player depending on trim level and options. Simple analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel level, and engine temperature.

Driver Assistance:

None by modern standards. Relied on driver skill and basic vehicle dynamics.

Connectivity:

No electronic connectivity features. Primarily mechanical systems.

Lighting:

Halogen or incandescent headlights, standard taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior dome light.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Typical intervals for oil changes: 3,000-5,000 miles. Air filter: 15,000-20,000 miles. Spark plugs: 20,000-30,000 miles. Coolant flush: 2 years or 30,000 miles. Transmission fluid: 20,000-40,000 miles. Specific intervals detailed in the manual.

Fluid Specifications:

Engine Oil: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SF or SG). Coolant: Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50). Transmission Fluid (Manual): GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90. Transmission Fluid (Automatic): Dexron II or equivalent. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4. Power Steering Fluid (if equipped): ATF Dexron II or equivalent.

Known Issues:

Rust and corrosion, particularly in wheel wells, rocker panels, and underbody. Carburetor issues (clogging, adjustment). Ignition system component wear (points, condenser, distributor cap, rotor). Cooling system leaks (hoses, radiator). Brake component wear. Potential for electrical connector corrosion over time.

Tune Up Procedures:

Includes checking and adjusting ignition timing, carburetor idle speed and mixture, spark plug gap, valve lash (on some engines), and replacing ignition components (plugs, points, condenser, rotor, wires).

Lubrication Points:

Chassis lubrication points (grease fittings) for suspension and steering components, door hinges, and latches. Engine oil changes, gearbox oil checks, and differential oil checks.

Part Numbers:

While specific part numbers are not listed in the product description, the manual would contain a comprehensive catalog or references to original Datsun part numbers for all components.

Spark Plug Specifications:

Specific spark plug type, heat range, and gap setting will be provided in the manual (e.g., NGK BPR5ES, gap 0.032-0.036 inches).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Datsun (later Nissan) has a long history of producing reliable and economical vehicles. The brand was known for its engineering prowess and its success in international markets, particularly in the compact and subcompact segments.

Model Evolution:

The Datsun 210 series replaced the earlier B210 model. The B310 generation brought updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and refined mechanicals compared to its predecessor, reflecting Nissan's continuous development in the compact car segment.

Production:

The B310 Datsun 210 was produced globally from 1977 to 1982. It was manufactured in Japan and assembled in various international locations.

Model Variants:

Available as a 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, coupe (often referred to as a Sunny coupe or similar), and a station wagon.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1977 model are not widely documented, Datsun vehicles of this era were generally recognized for their value, fuel economy, and reliability in consumer surveys and automotive reviews.

Ratings:

Fuel economy ratings were a strong selling point, often achieving over 30 MPG highway in many configurations.

Certifications:

Compliant with US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and EPA emissions standards for the 1977 model year.