🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

310

Year:

1980

Body Style:

Coupe Hatchback

Trim Level:

Deluxe GX

Chassis Code:

N10

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact hatchback/coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration projects, and professional repair shops.

Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda 323, Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf.

Design:

Compact, fuel-efficient, practical hatchback and coupe body styles.

Engine Options:

Known for reliable inline-four engines.

Value Proposition:

Affordable transportation with decent build quality for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (Printable)

Manual Type:

Factory Shop Service Repair Manual

Completeness:

Comprehensive

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all engine variants.

Fuel System:

Carburetor systems, fuel lines, fuel pump, fuel tank, and emissions controls.

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, points, condenser, and timing adjustments.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, and heater core.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, and lubrication passages.

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox disassembly, assembly, fluid changes, clutch operation, and repair.

Transmission Automatic:

Component identification, fluid service, and basic troubleshooting (if applicable to trim).

Driveline:

Driveshafts, universal joints, differentials, and axle shafts.

Suspension Front:

Struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Suspension Rear:

Leaf springs, shock absorbers, trailing arms, and alignment procedures.

Steering System:

Steering column, steering rack, tie rods, and power steering components (if equipped).

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, and parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, lighting, fuses, relays, and switches.

Instrument Panel:

Gauges, warning lights, and associated electrical circuits.

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, ventilation ducts, and controls.

Body Exterior:

Doors, hood, trunk lid, fenders, bumpers, glass, seals, and body panel alignment.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, and trim components.

Emissions Control:

PCV system, EGR system, and catalytic converter (if applicable).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, and general inspection.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation.

Repair Rebuilding:

Instructions for repairing and rebuilding major mechanical and electrical components.

Adjustment Calibration:

Procedures for adjusting ignition timing, carburetor settings, brake systems, and suspension alignment.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all fasteners during assembly and repair.

Special Tools:

Identification and use of special tools required for specific repair procedures.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Advanced diagnostics, including electrical testing and component analysis.

Rebuild Instructions:

Full rebuild procedures for engines and transmissions, including specifications for machining.

Schematics:

Detailed schematics for all mechanical and electrical systems.

Illustrations Diagrams:

High-quality illustrations and diagrams to aid in understanding complex procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes

Printability:

High-quality, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual.

Digital Access:

Instant download, no physical binding required.

Digital Medium:

N/A (Digital File)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

A12 (common for this era/model)

Configuration:

Inline-4 Cylinder

Displacement:

1.2 Liters (1171 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

76.0 mm x 64.5 mm (typical for A12)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (typical for A12)

Horsepower:

~60-65 HP @ ~5000 RPM (estimated, varies by tuning)

Torque:

~70-75 lb-ft @ ~3000 RPM (estimated, varies by tuning)

Fuel Delivery:

Single Downdraft Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi/Mikuni)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50 (refer to manual for exact)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.5 Liters (3.7 US Quarts) with filter (refer to manual)

Coolant Type:

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

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

3-Speed Automatic Transmission (less common)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron II or equivalent (for Automatic)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2320 mm (91.3 in)

Length:

Approx. 3930 mm (154.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 1595 mm (62.8 in)

Height:

Approx. 1340 mm (52.8 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 800-850 kg (1760-1870 lbs) depending on body style and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not readily available, consult specific vehicle documentation

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data available from NHTSA/IIHS for this specific model year and region. Generally considered basic safety for its era.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. No ABS.

Seat Belts:

Standard lap and shoulder belts for front occupants. Lap belts for rear occupants.

Headrests:

Front headrests often integrated into the seat design.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Typically 2-4 speakers.

Features:

None in the modern sense. Primarily basic driver controls.

Features:

No connectivity features. Analog controls only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era).

Air Filter:

Inspect every 6 months, replace as needed or every 12-18 months.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Inspect every 12 months. Automatic: Every 24,000 miles or 24 months (typical).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact).

Clutch Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (if hydraulic clutch, refer to manual).

Differential Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 90 (refer to manual).

Rust Corrosion:

Common issue for vehicles of this age, particularly wheel arches, sills, and floor pans.

Carburetor Tuning:

Can require periodic adjustment due to wear or age.

Electrical Connections:

Corroded or loose connections can lead to intermittent electrical issues.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear on rubber bushings can lead to noise and imprecise handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Nissan Motor Corporation.

Generation:

First generation (N10) of the Datsun 310/Nissan Pulsar.

Design Influence:

Often cited as a precursor to the Nissan Sentra line.

Production Years:

1979-1982 (for N10 generation).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan, with some assembly in other international markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition:

While specific awards for the 1980 Datsun 310 are not widely publicized, the model was part of Datsun's highly successful push into global markets, known for reliability and fuel efficiency during a period of rising fuel costs.