Segment:
Mid-size sedan, available as wagon and coupe
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking reliable and economical transportation
Competitors:
Toyota Corona, Datsun Bluebird (smaller), Nissan Maxima (later), Ford Fairmont, Chevrolet Malibu, Plymouth Volare
Reliability:
Known for robust engineering and durability
Value:
Offered a good balance of features and price
Emissions Control:
Early adopter of emissions control technology (NAPS-Z system)
Engine:
L20B inline-6, Z22 inline-4 (including troubleshooting, disassembly, assembly, specifications)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Hitachi, Mikuni), fuel pump, fuel lines, emissions control systems (NAPS-Z)
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing adjustments, electronic ignition components
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil specifications and capacities
Transmission:
4-speed Manual, 3-speed Automatic (RM3F, RL3F), clutch operation, transmission disassembly, assembly, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, universal joints
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear leaf spring solid axle, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering gear, steering column, power steering system (if equipped), tie rod ends, specifications
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, brake fluid specifications
Electrical System:
12V system, battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, horn
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, exterior trim
Interior:
Dashboard, seats, upholstery, headliner, interior trim panels
HVAC:
Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (if equipped), blower motor, heater core, A/C components
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-up procedures
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake service, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common problems
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling major components and sub-assemblies
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for various vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers use of common hand tools, measurement tools, and basic diagnostic equipment
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2650 mm (104.3 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4555 mm (179.3 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1680 mm (66.1 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2755-2976 lbs) depending on body style and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1700-1800 kg (3748-3968 lbs)
Wheel Size:
14 inch or 15 inch alloy or steel wheels
Tire Size:
175/70R14, 185/70R14, 195/70SR14 (examples)
Bolt Pattern:
4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inch)
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months (typical for the era)
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 50,000 miles or 48 months
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil:
API SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Rust:
Common on body panels, wheel arches, and undercarriage due to age and materials of the era.
Carburetor Issues:
Can become gummed up, leading to rough idle or poor running conditions, requiring cleaning or rebuilding.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent issues, particularly with lighting and ignition.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Some L20B engines were prone to exhaust manifold cracking due to thermal cycling.
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings are common wear items.