🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

280ZX

Chassis Code:

S130

Model Year:

1983

Generation:

2nd Generation (S130)

👋 Introduction

Market Positioning:

The 1983 Datsun 280ZX (S130) represented a refined evolution of the Z-car lineage, blending performance with luxury touring capabilities.

Competitors:

Competed against other popular sports coupes and GT cars of the era, such as the Chevrolet Camaro/Firebird, Ford Mustang, Pontiac Trans Am, and various European sports cars.

Distinctive Features:

This manual focuses on the highly sought-after 1983 model, a year that refined the S130 chassis and continued the tradition of responsive handling and distinctive styling.

Value Proposition:

Provides owners and technicians with the essential, complete, and accurate information to perform all maintenance, repair, and restoration tasks, ensuring vehicle longevity and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and configurations of the 1983 Datsun 280ZX (S130)

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but described as 'Complete Manual - No Missing Pages')

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Completeness Statement:

Guaranteed complete with no missing pages, offering a full spectrum of information for repair and maintenance.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (EFI), ignition, emissions control, engine management

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshaft, differentials, axles

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, parking), wheels, tires

Electrical Systems:

Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, electronic control units (ECU)

Body And Interior:

Body construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, climate control (HVAC)

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, diagnosis, and repair (heater core, A/C compressor, blower motor, refrigerant handling).

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, belt adjustments

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, rebuilding of major components (engine, transmission, brakes), bodywork repairs

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, common problems and solutions, wiring diagnostic flowcharts

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, engine timings

Diagnostics Charts:

Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for various systems, particularly the L-Jetronic fuel injection.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive listing of all critical torque specifications for engine, chassis, and drivetrain components.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive rebuild and restoration level, covering detailed disassembly, assembly, and calibration of all major systems.

Component Rebuilding:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding key components such as the engine (pistons, rings, bearings, cylinder head), transmission, and differential.

Wiring Diagrams:

High-quality, detailed electrical wiring diagrams covering all circuits within the vehicle, essential for electrical troubleshooting.

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, rust repair guidance, alignment specifications, door and window mechanism repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-quality digital reproduction, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

L28E

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2753 cc)

Horsepower Est:

145 hp @ 5200 rpm (for US market specification)

Torque Est:

205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (for US market specification)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)

Coolant Capacity Est:

8.0 Liters (8.5 Quarts)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (Distributorless ignition system variants may exist depending on market)

ECU Information:

Details on the function and troubleshooting of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) for fuel and ignition management.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

GL-4 Gear Oil (Viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90, refer to manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron II (or equivalent ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4600 mm (181.1 in)

Width:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

1310 mm (51.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2520 mm (99.2 in)

Curb Weight Est:

1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs), varies by trim and options

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (No standardized crash test data readily available for this era and region compared to modern standards)

Braking System:

Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (Power assisted)

Suspension Features:

Independent Front Suspension (MacPherson Struts), Independent Rear Suspension (Semi-trailing Arms)

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts (front), lap belts (rear)

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Power steering, cruise control (optional).

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Est:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for exact mileage/time based on driving conditions)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval Est:

Every 30,000 miles (refer to manual for exact specification)

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

N/A (L-series engines use a timing chain, not a belt)

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations)

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4) brake fluid

Common Issues:

Rust (especially in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around windows), aging electrical components, fuel injector issues, worn suspension bushings, degradation of rubber hoses and seals.

Diagnostics Focus:

The manual provides detailed troubleshooting for EFI system issues, a common area of complexity for this era.

Engine Oil Capacity Est:

Approximately 5.2 Liters (5.5 Quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Capacity Est:

8.0 Liters (8.5 Quarts)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual Est:

Approximately 2.0 Liters (2.1 Quarts)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto Est:

Approximately 3.0 Liters (3.2 Quarts)

Differential Fluid Capacity Est:

Approximately 1.3 Liters (1.4 Quarts)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Datsun (later Nissan) has a long history of producing reliable and sporty vehicles, with the Z-car series being a flagship model known for its performance and design.

S130 Evolution:

The S130 generation (1978-1983) evolved from the S30, featuring a longer wheelbase, more refined styling, and improved interior amenities, positioning it more as a grand tourer.

Production Years:

1978-1983

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

The Datsun/Nissan Z-car lineage has historically received numerous accolades for performance, styling, and value, though specific awards for the 1983 model are less prominently documented than modern vehicles.