Positioning:
Professional-grade service manual for owners and independent repair shops of the Datsun 280ZX S130 series, providing factory-level repair information.
Target Audience:
Owners of the 1983 Datsun 280ZX S130 series looking for detailed information to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics themselves or to understand service procedures.
Comparison:
Equivalent to the official Datsun workshop manual used by dealerships and authorized service centers, offering superior detail and accuracy compared to generic automotive repair guides.
Features:
Hundreds of pages of diagrams, detailed information, step-by-step procedures, troubleshooting guides, and wiring diagrams for comprehensive vehicle maintenance and repair.
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform repairs themselves, saving potentially thousands of dollars in labor costs.
Systems:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams for electrical system troubleshooting and repair.
Emission Control:
Emission control system operation and service, including catalytic converter and EGR system.
Procedures:
Repair procedures with detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, disassembly, assembly, cleaning, reinstallation, diagnosis and repair of electrical systems.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides for diagnosing and resolving common vehicle issues.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes specific diagnostic procedures for various systems, particularly the fuel injection and electrical systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information as used by professional technicians. Includes detailed diagrams and information for specific vehicle repair.
Illustrations:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos guiding through every procedure.
Exploded Views:
Enlarged inset views to identify and examine parts in detail.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC, L-Series
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2753 cc)
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Horsepower Est 1983:
Approximately 145-155 hp (varies slightly by market and specific sub-model)
Torque Est 1983:
Approximately 170-180 lb-ft (varies slightly by market and specific sub-model)
Engine Management:
Electronic Engine Control (ECCS) system managing fuel injection and ignition timing.
NHTSA Rating Est:
Not directly available for this era, but Datsun vehicles of this period generally performed adequately for their time.
Features:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, Power steering.
Features:
Seat belts, crumple zones (front and rear), padded dashboard.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact spec).
Tune Up Est:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (includes spark plugs, filters, etc.).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for precise viscosity).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
DEXRON-III or equivalent ATF.
Common Problems:
Rust (especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear hatch), aging fuel injection components, worn suspension bushings, electrical gremlins, and potential head gasket issues if not maintained.
Engine Specific:
Oil leaks from the front timing cover seal and rear main seal are common on high-mileage L-series engines.
Heritage:
Datsun, later rebranded as Nissan, has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, particularly known for its sporty coupes and sedans.
Evolution:
The 280ZX (S130) is the second generation of the Z-car, succeeding the 240Z/260Z/280Z. It featured a more modern, aerodynamic design, enhanced comfort, and improved technology, bridging the gap between sports car and grand tourer.
Body Styles:
Offered as a 2+2 Coupe and a less common 2-seater Coupe.
Production Years:
1978-1983
Manufacturing Location:
Japan