Historical Significance:
Iconic Japanese sports car, credited with establishing the Datsun/Nissan Z-car lineage and popularizing Japanese performance vehicles globally.
Contemporaries:
Directly competed with European sports cars like the Jaguar E-Type, Porsche 911, and Chevrolet Corvette, often offering comparable performance at a significantly lower price point.
Design Philosophy:
Long hood, short deck, inline-6 engine, rear-wheel drive layout, independent suspension, focus on driver engagement and accessible performance.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers seeking a stylish, capable, and relatively affordable sports coupe.
Engine:
L-Series (L24) inline-6, engine overhaul, tuning, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emission control
Transmission:
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (optional on later models), automatic transmission (less common for 240Z), clutch, gearbox overhaul, drive shafts
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum, hydraulic system, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake servicing and bleeding
Suspension:
Front independent (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear independent (trailing arms, Panhard rod), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Rack and pinion, steering column, universal joints, steering wheel, tie rod ends
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starting system, charging system (alternator, battery), lighting, instrumentation, ignition system, horn, wipers, power windows (if applicable), fuse box layouts
Body:
Body structure, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, chassis repair, corrosion prevention
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetors (SU Hitachi HJG46W twin carbs are standard), carburetor adjustment and overhaul
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant capacity and type
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (for emissions compliance in some markets)
Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid change, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component replacement, assembly and disassembly
Rebuild:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, carburetor rebuilding
Installation:
Installation of genuine Datsun accessories and service parts
Specifications:
Torque settings, fluid capacities, clearances, alignment angles, tire pressures
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilding
Diagrams:
Detailed step-by-step diagrams, exploded views, electrical schematics
Diagnostic Information:
Factory-level diagnostic procedures and specifications
Oil Change Interval Miles:
3,000 - 5,000 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
15,000 - 20,000 miles
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for specific year/climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90
Rust And Corrosion:
Prone to rust, especially in floor pans, rocker panels, wheel arches, and battery tray area. Requires diligent rust prevention and repair.
Carburetor Issues:
SU carburetors require regular tuning and can be sensitive to wear or improper adjustment. Rebuild kits are essential for longevity.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses can lead to intermittent electrical problems. Lucas components (though less prevalent than later Japanese brands) and general wiring degradation are common.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement to maintain handling and safety.
Fuel System Degradation:
Rubber fuel lines can degrade over time. The fuel pump and fuel tank may require cleaning or replacement.
Datsun Legacy:
Datsun, Nissan's export brand, aimed to challenge established European and American automakers with reliable, affordable, and increasingly performance-oriented vehicles.
240Z Introduction:
Introduced in 1969 in Japan as the Fairlady 240Z, and in 1970 in North America as the Datsun 240Z. Successor to the Fairlady SP. The '240' refers to the approximate 2.4-liter engine displacement.
Series Development:
Part of the S30 generation, which also included the 260Z and 280Z, with styling influenced by European GT cars.
Production Years:
1969-1973 (for the 240Z specific model)
Production Location:
Japan
Sales Figures:
Over 150,000 units of the S30 generation were sold globally, with a significant portion being the 240Z.