Positioning:
The Datsun Bluebird of the late 1960s was a key player in Datsun's expansion into global markets, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and competitive pricing. It competed with vehicles like the Toyota Corona and various European compact sedans.
Strengths:
Robust mechanicals, accessible pricing, and a reputation for ease of maintenance contributed to its success. This manual reflects the manufacturer's commitment to providing detailed service information for its growing customer base.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides direct access to manufacturer-level technical data, enabling accurate diagnostics and repairs for a wide range of engine sizes and model variants, crucial for preserving these classic vehicles.
Engine Variants Covered:
1300cc, 1400cc, 1600cc, 1800cc
Model Variants Covered:
1300, 1400, 1600, 1800, 160B, 180B
Geographic Coverage:
Global (specifications may vary by market)
Estimated Pages:
500-800 (typical for workshop manuals of this era, exact count not provided)
Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (presumed, based on common manual translations and business model)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, internal component specifications, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburetion, fuel pump), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (4-speed and potentially 5-speed options), clutch operation, removal, installation, and repair. Automatic transmission may be covered if optional.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, universal joints.
Suspension And Steering:
Front independent suspension (e.g., MacPherson strut), rear leaf spring or independent suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering gear, power steering (if equipped).
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator/generator, starter motor, ignition switch, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), gauges, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, horn, wiper system.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, chassis components, frame repair (if applicable), collision repair information, painting.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, tune-ups, lubrication points, brake adjustments, belt tensioning, fluid level checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts for common problems related to engine performance, starting issues, electrical faults, braking problems, and suspension noises.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Installation:
Procedures for installing new or replacement parts, including torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and other critical measurements for engine, drivetrain, suspension, and braking components.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics).
Engine Code Examples:
R13, R14, R16, R20 (specific codes may vary)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 60 HP (1300cc) to 90 HP (1800cc) depending on engine variant and tuning.
Torque Range:
Varies by engine size, typically 70-100 lb-ft.
Carburetion:
Single or twin-barrel downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi, Solex variants).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (early models may have been designed for leaded fuel; refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for the era).
Tune Up Interval:
Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles, or annually.
Coolant Flush:
Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for precise grade and viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 gear oil for manual transmissions (viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90). ATF DEXRON-II for automatic transmissions (if equipped).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue for vehicles of this age, particularly in areas exposed to salt and moisture. Underbody and wheel arches are susceptible.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors require periodic adjustment and cleaning to maintain optimal performance and fuel economy, especially with modern fuel formulations.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loosening of electrical connectors can lead to intermittent faults in lighting, ignition, or charging systems.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear over time, leading to steering looseness and alignment issues.
Datsun Evolution:
Datsun (Nissan's export brand) rapidly gained a reputation for building reliable and affordable vehicles in the 1960s, transitioning from smaller cars to more substantial models like the Bluebird.
Bluebird Lineage:
The Bluebird (Nissan's Datsun 310, 410, 411 series) was a significant model in Datsun's history, evolving from the earlier 310 series and establishing a strong presence in international markets.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily).
Production Period:
The 410/411 generation Bluebird was produced from 1963 to 1971, with the 1969 models falling into the later part of this series.
