Segment:
Compact Sedan, popular in early 1970s Japanese automotive market and export markets
Key Competitors:
Toyota Corolla, Mazda Familia, Ford Escort (Europe), Holden Torana (Australia)
Design Philosophy:
Known for its robust engineering, rear-wheel-drive platform, and sporty handling characteristics ('Poor Man's BMW')
Manual Value Proposition:
Comprehensive resource for owners seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their classic Datsun 510.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Rebuild, Restoration
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, typically extensive (e.g., 500+ pages)
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine:
Detailed engine overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust systems
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, repair, clutch, driveshaft
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, drum brakes, disc brakes (front), parking brake
Steering:
Steering box, linkages, power steering (if equipped)
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (struts, wishbones), rear leaf springs, shock absorbers
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories
Body And Chassis:
Body repair, chassis lubrication, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, bumpers
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Hitachi/SU) overhaul, fuel pump, fuel lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic charts, symptom-based fault finding
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle components
Rebuild:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, carburetor rebuild
Restoration:
Detailed guidance for refurbishment and restoration projects
Electrical Service:
Comprehensive electrical diagnostics and repair with detailed wiring diagrams
Depth:
Professional technician level, suitable for advanced DIY enthusiasts
Quality:
High resolution, clear text and images, printable
Printability:
Fully printable pages
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Digital Format Notes:
Can be saved to hard drive, burned to CD-ROM
Reader Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Archive Requirement:
WinRAR (or similar decompression utility)
Operating Systems:
All versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Code:
L20B (primarily), earlier models may have used L16 variants
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1982 cc (for L20B)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 86.0 mm (for L20B)
Horsepower:
Approx. 100-115 hp (for L20B, depending on tuning and market)
Torque:
Approx. 120-130 lb-ft (for L20B, depending on tuning and market)
Induction:
Dual Hitachi SU carburetors (common), or single Hitachi downdraft carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (from mid-1970s onwards, earlier may have been leaded)
Ignition System:
Distributor-based, points and condenser ignition system
Engine Cooling:
Water-cooled, pressurized system
Type:
4-speed Manual (e.g., FS5W71B)
Type:
3-speed Automatic (e.g., JATCO 3N71B)
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90 (typical)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 99.9 inches (2538 mm)
Length:
Approx. 162.8 inches (4135 mm)
Width:
Approx. 63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.5 inches (1384 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2200-2400 lbs (1000-1090 kg), depending on trim and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated, but typically around 3000-3200 lbs
Crash Test Data:
Limited comprehensive crash test data available from this era; focus was on occupant protection through basic structural integrity.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering mechanism, generally direct and communicative
Seat Belts:
Standard lap belts in front, typically two-point or optional three-point (later models/markets)
Body Construction:
Unitary construction (monocoque chassis)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for the era)
Tune Up Interval:
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months (includes spark plugs, points, condenser, timing adjustment)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate and specific engine recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, 50/50 mixture with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4) hydraulic brake fluid
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor tuning, points/condenser wear, fuel pump diaphragm, rear leaf spring bushings, universal joints.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, floor pans, strut towers (common for vintage cars of this era).
Spark Plug Gap:
0.031-0.032 inches (0.79-0.81 mm) for L20B
Ignition Timing:
Approximately 10-12 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC) static, adjust with vacuum advance disconnected
Valve Lash Adjustment:
Intake: 0.014 in (0.35 mm), Exhaust: 0.018 in (0.45 mm) (cold, for L20B)
Manufacturer:
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (Datsun was Nissan's primary export brand during this period)
Introduction:
Introduced in Japan in 1968, later introduced to North America and other markets.
Generations:
First Generation (HS 510/PL 510, 1968-1973)
Body Styles:
Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Wagon (Station Wagon)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (primarily), assembly plants in other countries for specific markets (e.g., Australia)
Key Market Impact:
Established Datsun as a competitive player in the global compact car market, particularly admired for its driving dynamics and value.
