🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Daihatsu

Model:

Charade

Generation Code:

G10

Year:

1981

Engine Variant:

Type CB Engine

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Subcompact hatchback, known for its fuel efficiency, compact size, and affordability in its era.

Key Competitors 1981:

Honda Civic, Toyota Starlet, Suzuki Fronte, Mitsubishi Minica, Ford Fiesta (depending on market)

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on practicality, economy, and maneuverability for urban driving.

G10 Unique Selling Points:

Compact dimensions, surprisingly spacious interior for its size, efficient engine, front-wheel drive layout offering good traction.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed (Factory Origin), Digital PDF versions common for resale

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair, adjustment, installation, removal, disassembly, assembly, and checking procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Estimate based on typical manuals of this era and scope: 300-600 pages

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, assembly, overhaul, and inspection of the Type CB engine (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valvetrain, oil pump, cooling system)

Engine Fuel System:

Carburetor system (identification, adjustment, overhaul, troubleshooting), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter

Engine Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, wiring, timing adjustment

Engine Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan, temperature sensors

Engine Lubrication System:

Oil pan, oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, oil pressure checks

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and adjustment of manual transmission components (gears, synchronizers, shift forks, bearings), clutch operation, and linkages

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, driveshafts, differential (if integrated with transmission)

Suspension Front:

MacPherson strut system, control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, steering knuckles

Suspension Rear:

Semi-independent torsion beam axle or independent suspension (depending on specific G10 variant), shock absorbers, springs, bushings

Steering System:

Rack and pinion steering, tie rods, steering column, universal joints, wheel alignment specifications

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for era), brake master cylinder, brake lines, wheel cylinders, brake pads, brake shoes, parking brake mechanism, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures

Electrical System Overview:

Wiring diagrams, electrical component locations, fuses and relays

Charging System:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery maintenance and testing

Starting System:

Starter motor, starter solenoid, ignition switch

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lights, bulb specifications

Instrumentation:

Dashboard gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge), warning lights, sensor troubleshooting

Body Exterior:

Panel removal and installation (doors, hood, trunk lid), glass replacement, trim components, bumper removal

Body Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard trim, door panel removal, headliner, carpet replacement

HVAC System:

Heater core, ventilation system, blower motor, control cables, refrigerant system (if A/C equipped)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, belt inspections and adjustments, tire rotations

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common drivability and electrical issues

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation across all major vehicle systems

Adjustment Procedures:

Carburetor idle speed and mixture adjustment, ignition timing, clutch pedal free play, parking brake adjustment, wheel alignment

Overhaul Procedures:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like the engine and transmission

Diagnostic Techniques:

Basic diagnostic procedures for electrical circuits, fuel delivery, and ignition system performance

Depth Of Coverage:

Factory-level technical information, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed specifications, tolerances, and procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Considerations:

If digital, expect searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and clear text. Original factory manuals are typically scanned and digitized.

Original Print Quality:

Typically high-quality paper and printing from factory sources, with clear line drawings and schematics.

Original Binding Type:

Likely a robust perfect bound or spiral bound format for durability in a workshop environment.

Original Paper Type:

Durable, often matte-finish paper designed for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

CB

Engine Type:

Inline 3-cylinder, 4-stroke, naturally aspirated gasoline engine

Displacement:

Approximately 843 cc (0.8 L)

Horsepower Est:

Approximately 40-45 hp (SAE Net)

Torque Est:

Approximately 65-70 Nm (SAE Net)

Fuel Delivery:

Single-barrel carburetor (e.g., Keihin or Hitachi)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (depending on market and specific regulations for 1981)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder (12 valves total)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

Likely a 3-speed Automatic Transmission was an option on some variants.

Drive Layout:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length Est:

Approx. 3,400 mm

Width Est:

Approx. 1,500 mm

Height Est:

Approx. 1,360 mm

Wheelbase Est:

Approx. 2,200 mm

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 700-750 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Safety standards and testing protocols were less stringent and standardized globally in 1981 compared to modern vehicles. No official NCAP or IIHS ratings exist for this model.

Active Safety Features:

Basic hydraulic braking system, though ABS was not available.

Passive Safety Features:

Basic seat belts, impact-absorbing steering column, reinforced safety cage structure for its class.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio, potentially with a cassette player. No digital displays or advanced features.

Driver Assistance Features:

None (ABS, airbags, traction control, stability control were not available).

Connectivity Features:

None. Basic analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 km or 3,000 miles, or every 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 10,000 km, replace every 20,000-30,000 km.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Replace every 20,000-30,000 km, depending on plug type and wear.

Coolant Replacement:

Flush and replace coolant every 2 years or 40,000 km.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (verify with manual for precise specification).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3.0 - 3.5 liters with filter change.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Carburetor Issues:

Clogging, idle instability, fuel mixture drift due to age and wear.

Electrical Gremlins:

Corroded connections, failing grounds, and aging wiring loom can lead to intermittent issues.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, and door sills are susceptible to rust due to age and environmental exposure.

Suspension Wear:

Worn bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts can lead to noisy or imprecise handling.

Cooling System Leaks:

Degraded rubber hoses, aging radiator, and water pump seals can cause coolant leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Daihatsu Heritage:

Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history of producing small, economical, and reliable vehicles, often focusing on kei cars and subcompacts for the Japanese domestic market and export.

Charade First Gen:

The G10 represents the first generation of the Daihatsu Charade, launched in 1977, with the 1981 model year being part of this initial series.

G10 Updates:

Minor updates likely occurred within the G10 generation, potentially including styling tweaks, interior refinements, and minor mechanical improvements. The Type CB engine was a core component of this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Production Years G10:

1977-1983

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Recognition:

While the G10 Charade itself may not have specific prestigious awards listed, it was recognized for its fuel efficiency and practicality, contributing to Daihatsu's reputation in the subcompact segment.