🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

280Z

Model Code:

HLS30 (US Spec)

Generation Name:

2nd Generation (S30)

Generation Years:

1974-1978

Production Codes:

S30

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Datsun 280Z owners, enthusiasts, independent repair shops.

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform their own repairs, saving money and maintaining their vehicle.

Competitor Manuals:

Haynes, Chilton (often less detailed than factory manuals).

Factory Quality:

Authentic factory data, same as used by professional mechanics.

Instant Access:

Immediate download post-purchase, no shipping delays.

Compatibility:

PC & MAC compatible PDF.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Years:

1976-1977

Specific Markets:

North America (implied by US Spec HLS30)

Estimated Page Count:

High volume (typically 500+ pages for a full factory manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Content Focus:

Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Overhaul

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, assembly, disassembly, component testing, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (mechanical aspects), exhaust system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, fuel injection system (EFI), wiring diagrams, component testing.

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, assembly, overhaul, gear ratios, component identification, troubleshooting, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Disassembly, assembly, overhaul, operation, troubleshooting, fluid specifications, torque converter.

Drivetrain:

Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles, universal joints, lubrication.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications, troubleshooting.

Steering:

Steering gear, linkage, power steering system (if equipped), troubleshooting, specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, brake pads, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, ignition, lighting, gauges, switches, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system components, injectors, fuel pressure testing, troubleshooting.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications, troubleshooting.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter (if equipped), mufflers, pipes, hangers, emissions control system components.

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, frame specifications, door mechanisms, window operation, interior trim, upholstery, glass replacement.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:

Heater core, blower motor, ventilation controls, refrigerant (R-12 for this era), AC system diagnosis (if equipped).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, tune-up procedures.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic fault finding, error code interpretation (if applicable to EFI), component testing methods, symptom-based diagnosis.

Component Removal Installation:

Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing all major components.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearance measurements, alignment angles, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Use of multimeters, continuity testing, voltage drop testing, wiring diagram interpretation.

Emissions Control:

Diagnosis and repair of emissions-related components and systems.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds)

Visual Aids:

Highly detailed exploded view diagrams, schematics, and illustrations.

Level Of Detail:

Professional mechanic grade, suitable for in-depth repair and restoration.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (if OCR'd properly)

Printable:

Yes

Customizable Printing:

Print specific sections as needed

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Engine Code:

L28

Displacement Liters:

2.8 L

Displacement Cubic Inches:

275.5 cu in

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 79.0 mm (3.39 in x 3.11 in)

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1 (typical, may vary slightly by market/year)

Horsepower Gross Hp:

170 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx. for 1976-1977 US spec)

Torque Gross Lb Ft:

210 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx. for 1976-1977 US spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Pump Type:

In-tank or external electric

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Manual (FS5W71A)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed Automatic (Datsun/Nissan RL4F03A)

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated

📐 Dimensions

Length:

163.4 inches (4150 mm)

Width:

64.4 inches (1636 mm)

Height:

50.6 inches (1285 mm)

Wheelbase:

90.7 inches (2300 mm)

Front Track:

53.5 inches (1359 mm)

Rear Track:

53.3 inches (1354 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 3000-3100 lbs (1360-1406 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 3150-3250 lbs (1429-1474 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era:

Designed to 1970s safety standards; lacks modern passive safety features.

Active Safety:

Four-wheel disc brakes, responsive steering, balanced chassis.

Passive Safety:

Lap belts (three-point optional/retrofitted), strong unibody construction for its time, padded dashboard.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional 8-track or cassette player, analog gauges.

Driver Assistance Features:

None (vehicle from an era before modern driver assistance systems).

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for the era)

Tune Up Interval:

Every 10,000-12,000 miles

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles (automatic and manual)

Engine Oil Type:

API SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific grade)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix with water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (specified in manual)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 gear oil

Common Problems:

Rust (especially around wheel wells, rockers, battery tray, strut towers), aging fuel injection components (injectors, fuel pump, AFM), cooling system leaks, worn suspension bushings, electrical gremlins, distributor and ignition coil issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Datsun Legacy:

Datsun (Nissan's export brand) established a reputation for reliable, sporty, and affordable vehicles.

S30 Development:

Successor to the 240Z and 260Z, featuring a larger engine and fuel injection to meet emissions standards.

280Z Introduction:

Introduced in 1975 model year, responding to tighter emission regulations and demand for more power from the larger L28 engine.

Production Period:

1975-1978 (for 280Z model)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Award:

Car and Driver's 10 Best list (1974-1978 for the Z-car line).

Iconic Status:

Widely recognized as a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) and global automotive icon, credited with popularizing Japanese sports cars in the West.