🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

280ZX

Chassis Code:

S130 Series

Model Year:

1983

Generation Designation:

2nd Generation (S130)

Generation Years:

1978-1983

Platform:

Nissan S platform

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics

Value Proposition:

Inexpensive way to keep vehicle working properly, comprehensive repair resource

Advantage Over Alternatives:

Digital delivery saves shipping costs and wait time compared to physical manuals

Ease Of Use:

Numbered table of contents for fast information retrieval

Instructional Format:

Bold figure numbers for quick illustration matching

📋 Manual Details

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive factory service and repair

Styles Covered:

All styles

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified but implied to be extensive)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Complete service and repair

Transmission Service:

Complete service and repair

Brake System:

Service and repair

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed

Electrical System:

Service and troubleshooting

Suspension System:

Service and repair

Steering System:

Service and repair

Cooling System:

Service and repair

Fuel Injection System:

Service and repair

Fuel System:

Service and repair

Emission Control System:

Service and repair

HVAC System:

Heater/Air Conditioning service and repair

Engine Control System:

Service and repair

Chassis Body:

Service and repair

Restraint System:

Service and repair

Interior Trim:

Service and repair

Differential Drive Axle:

Service and repair

Maintenance:

General maintenance procedures

Troubleshooting:

Dedicated troubleshooting section

Repair Instructions:

Step-by-step instructions based on complete disassembly

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting and repair combined with wiring diagrams

Lubrication:

Periodic lubrication schedules

Depth Of Coverage:

In-depth, professional quality, covering all aspects from basic to advanced

Instructional Elements:

Detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions

Visual Aids:

Hundreds of photos, illustrations, drawings, enlarged inset details

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Printability:

Printable without restriction, print entire manual or select pages

Delivery Method:

Download link provided after payment

Physical Format Option:

Printable to paper or CD-ROM (customer responsibility)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Engine Code:

L28E

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2753 cc)

Horsepower Estimated:

145-150 hp (approximate, varies by market and specific tune)

Torque Estimated:

200-210 lb-ft (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Drive Type:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

95.4 inches (2423 mm)

Length:

174.7 inches (4437 mm)

Width:

66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

50.8 inches (1290 mm)

Curb Weight Estimated:

3100-3300 lbs (approximate, depending on trim and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Adheres to 1983 US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)

Braking System:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (Optional Rear Disc)

Restraint System Standard:

Seat belts

Body Construction:

Unibody construction with integrated safety cage

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound system

Cruise Control:

Available on most models

Not Applicable:

No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual for specific intervals based on driving conditions (typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months)

Tune Up Interval:

Refer to manual; includes spark plugs, filters, etc.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for API service classification and viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 Gear Oil (viscosity depends on temperature, refer to manual)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5 Gear Oil (viscosity depends on temperature, refer to manual)

Common Problems:

Rust (especially around wheel wells, rockers, and T-top areas), aging fuel lines and injectors, vacuum leaks, wear in suspension components, electrical gremlins, worn seat fabric.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Datsun (a division of Nissan)

Predecessor:

Datsun 280Z (S30 Series)

Key Changes From Predecessor:

New body style (S130), longer wheelbase, independent rear suspension, introduction of 2+2 and coupe body styles, more advanced fuel injection

Production Period For S130:

1978-1983

Marketing Name Change:

In 1981, Datsun brand transitioned to Nissan in most global markets, though 'Datsun' branding persisted in some regions and for certain models for a period. The 280ZX is often referred to as the Nissan Fairlady Z in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Recognition:

Often praised for its performance, styling, and comfort, considered a 'Grand Tourer' sports car.

Sales Success:

The Z car line, including the 280ZX, was a significant sales success for Datsun/Nissan, cementing its reputation in the sports car market.