Historical Context:
The Datsun 510, often referred to as the 'Bluebird', was a pivotal vehicle for Nissan in North America. It was designed as a reliable, affordable, and sporty compact sedan that offered a sophisticated European-influenced chassis with independent rear suspension (in many configurations), making it a standout in its class.
Competitors:
Competed against cars like the Toyota Corolla, Mazda Familia, Ford Pinto, Chevrolet Vega, and Volkswagen Beetle.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized a balanced chassis, reliable mechanicals, and a practical yet stylish design, often compared to European sedans like the BMW 1600.
Performance Appeal:
Gained popularity in motorsports (SCCA Trans-Am series) due to its robust chassis and tunable L-series engines, cementing its reputation as a driver's car.
Engine:
L-Series (L13, L16, L18, L20B), troubleshooting, overhaul, specifications
Fuel System:
Carbureted (Hitachi, SU, Weber conversions), fuel pump, lines, tank, specifications
Ignition System:
Distributor, coil, spark plugs, timing, troubleshooting
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, specifications
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (if applicable), specifications
Transmission:
4-speed Manual, 3-speed Automatic (Jatco/Nissan), overhaul, adjustment, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle/differential overhaul and specifications
Suspension:
Front: Independent (MacPherson strut), Rear: Solid axle with leaf springs (sedan/coupe) or trailing arms (wagon), adjustments, component replacement
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering box, steering column, tie rods, adjustments, specifications
Brakes:
Front: Disc, Rear: Drum (standard on most models). Brake system overhaul, bleeding, specifications, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, troubleshooting
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, trim, doors, windows, seats, structural specifications
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, operation, troubleshooting (if equipped from factory)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Repair Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, suspension, brake, and electrical component repair and overhaul procedures
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, carburetor adjustments, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical system wiring schematics
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to full engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Code:
L16 (most common for the period covered)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1595 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
81.0 mm x 78.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 8.5:1 to 9.5:1 (depending on specific tune/model)
Horsepower:
Approx. 96-109 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm (net, depending on carburetion and engine variant)
Torque:
Approx. 100-110 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (net, depending on carburetion and engine variant)
Carburetor Type:
Single or Twin Hitachi downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi HJG 4-1, HJB 4-1)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (typically 87 octane, though leaded was common during production years)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 - 6.0 Quarts (5.2 - 5.7 Liters) (check specific model variation)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 US Quarts (4.3 - 4.7 Liters) with filter change (check specific model variation)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (ambient temperature dependent, consult manual for specifics)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
3-Speed Automatic (Jatco/Nissan)
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate (manual transmission)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 90 or 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (consult specific manual for exact specification)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for the era).
Tune Up Interval:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles (includes spark plugs, points, condenser, timing, carburetor adjustments).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 24,000-36,000 miles or as specified for manual/automatic.
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000-36,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Grease Type:
General Purpose Lithium Base Grease (e.g., NLGI #2) for chassis lubrication points.
Common Problems:
Rust (especially rockers, wheel arches, floor pans), carburetor issues (needle valve, jet wear), ignition points and condenser wear, worn suspension bushings, clutch wear, oil leaks from valve cover and rear main seal.
Specific Component Wear:
MacPherson strut mounts and bearings can wear, leading to noise and alignment issues.
Maintenance Schedule Summary
Periodic Checks:
Regular checks of tire pressure, oil level, coolant level, brake fluid level, belt tension, and visual inspection for leaks.
Datsun Legacy:
Datsun (Nissan's export brand) rapidly gained market share in the US during the 1960s and 70s with reliable, affordable, and well-engineered vehicles. The 510 was a cornerstone of this success.
Body Styles:
Available as 2-door Sedan, 4-door Sedan, and 5-door Station Wagon.
Design Updates:
Minor styling updates occurred throughout the production run, including grille changes and trim variations. Early models (pre-1971) are often distinguished from later ones.
Production Period:
1968-1973 (in Japan and export markets, distinct from later models like the 510 'A' or 'B' generations)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with some assembly potentially in other markets.
