Positioning:
Datsun's entry into the compact sedan and pickup truck market, aiming for affordability and reliability.
Competitors:
Toyota Corolla, Datsun 1200, Mazda Familia, and domestic compact offerings of the era.
510 Features:
Known for its European-inspired styling, independent rear suspension (on most sedans/coupes), and spirited performance for its class.
Pickup Features:
Practical utility, durable construction, and simple mechanicals, suitable for work and light hauling.
Value:
Provides comprehensive technical data directly from the manufacturer for DIY maintenance and repair, saving costs and empowering owners.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of engine mechanicals, tuning, diagnostics, and repair.
Fuel System:
Carburetor systems (likely Hitachi/SU types), fuel pump, lines, and tank.
Ignition System:
Distributor, coils, spark plugs, timing, and diagnostics.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, pipes, muffler, and catalytic converter (if applicable for later years).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, and fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Coverage for available automatic transmissions (if any).
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, universal joints, rear axle, and differential.
Suspension Front:
MacPherson strut independent suspension, control arms, springs, shocks, and alignment.
Suspension Rear:
Leaf spring solid axle (Pickup), or independent strut (510 sedan/coupe), bushings, and shocks.
Steering:
Steering box, tie rods, linkages, and steering wheel assembly.
Brakes Front:
Disc brakes (common on 510), calipers, pads, rotors, and hydraulic lines.
Brakes Rear:
Drum brakes (common on both), wheel cylinders, shoes, drums, and hydraulic lines.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instruments, and fuses.
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, and trim.
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, upholstery, and trim panels.
Heating Ventilation Ac:
HVAC system components, controls, and airflow.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and reassembling various vehicle systems and components.
Cleaning:
Procedures for cleaning specific parts and systems.
Specifications Setting:
Torque specifications, clearance adjustments, timing settings.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Inclusion of diagrams and illustrations for clarity in repair and maintenance.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and overhaul procedures.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 97.2 inches (2470 mm)
Length:
Approx. 167.3 inches (4250 mm)
Width:
Approx. 64.2 inches (1630 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.3 inches (1355 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm) for LWB variants
Bed Length:
Varies by wheelbase, typically around 73 inches for standard bed.
Curb Weight 510:
Approx. 2150 - 2350 lbs (975 - 1065 kg)
Gvw Pickup:
Varies by configuration, typically around 3000-3500 lbs
Tire Size 510:
Typically 165-13 or 175-13
Tire Size Pickup:
Commonly 6.00-13, 6.50-13, or 7.00-13
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4 x 114.3 mm (4 x 4.5 inches)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, points, and condenser every 10,000-15,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles or as specified.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG rated oil, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for general use.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or SAE 90).
Rust Perforation:
Common issue due to age; particularly on rocker panels, wheel wells, and floor pans.
Carburetor Tuning:
Hitachi/SU carburetors can be finicky and require regular adjustment for optimal performance.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connections can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items.
Brand Origin:
Datsun, the export brand of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan.
510 Development:
Designed by Yoshihiko Matsuo, heavily influenced by European sedans like the BMW 1600, earning it the nickname 'The Bluebird'.
Pickup Development:
Part of Datsun's truck line, building on the success of earlier models, known for its durability and versatility.
510 Production Years:
1968-1973 (JDM '67-'73, USDM '68-'73)
Pickup Production Years:
Late 1960s - Early 1970s (specific model codes vary)
Motorsport:
The Datsun 510 achieved significant success in SCCA Trans-Am racing, proving its performance capabilities.
