Era Significance:
The Datsun 280ZX (S130) represented Nissan's push into the premium sports car market, directly competing with European and American performance coupes of the era.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Corvette, Porsche 924/944, Mazda RX-7, Toyota Celica Supra.
Performance Orientation:
The 1982 model year featured the introduction of the turbocharged L28ET engine, significantly boosting performance and competitiveness.
Design Evolution:
Styled with a focus on aerodynamics and a more luxurious interior compared to its predecessor, the 240Z/260Z/280Z series.
Comprehensive Coverage:
Emphasizes a complete, no-compromise manual that empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, avoiding incomplete or low-quality alternatives.
Engine System:
Detailed coverage of the L28ET 2.8L inline-6 turbocharged engine, including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, and emissions.
Transmission System:
Coverage for the 5-speed manual transmission (FS5W71B) and the optional 3-speed automatic transmission (L4N71B), including overhaul, adjustment, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain System:
Rear-wheel drive system, including driveshaft, differential, and axle assemblies.
Suspension System:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts) and rear independent suspension (multi-link), including shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering system, including pump, steering rack, and hydraulic lines.
Brake System:
Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, including hydraulic system, caliper/wheel cylinder servicing, pad/shoe replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Fuel System:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, and fuel tank.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, and pipes.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, doors, hood, trunk, and chassis components.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation and service.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Engine Repair:
Engine disassembly, inspection, internal component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), cylinder head service, and reassembly.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission overhaul, clutch replacement (for manual), torque converter service (for automatic), and gear synchronization repair.
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder rebuild, and brake line repair.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Using multimeters and test lights to diagnose circuit faults, sensor testing, and ECU troubleshooting.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, shock absorber/strut replacement, and power steering fluid flush.
Bodywork And Restoration:
Procedures for panel alignment, rust repair, paintwork preparation, and interior component installation.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners across all major systems.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including checking sensor outputs, ECU error codes (if applicable for the era), and timing adjustments.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive procedures for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including component measurements and tolerances.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs and diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)
Engine Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2753 cc)
Engine Code:
L28ET (Turbocharged)
Horsepower Turbo:
145 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate, subject to specific market regulations)
Torque Turbo:
205 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)
Compression Ratio Turbo:
7.4:1
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type Recommended:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (or higher, depending on engine tuning and altitude).
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition System (Distributorless ignition or distributor with electronic control)
Oil Capacity:
5.8 US quarts (5.5 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
8.0 US quarts (7.6 Liters)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Manual Transmission Model:
FS5W71B
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission Model:
L4N71B
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Fuel Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or every two years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Issues Engine:
Turbocharger wear, fuel injection system (fuel pump, injectors) reliability, head gasket leaks, valve stem seals.
Common Issues Electrical:
Degradation of wiring harnesses, intermittent electrical connections, failure of early electronic components.
Common Issues Body:
Rust in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the windshield. Weatherstripping deterioration.