First Generation (510 Sedan/Wagon, PL510/PL521 Truck)
Production Years Covered:
1968-1973
Codes
Chassis Code:
PL521 (for the pickup truck variant)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Target Audience:
Datsun 510 and PL521 owners and enthusiasts looking for comprehensive repair and maintenance information
Competitive Analysis
Differentiation:
Official factory service manual providing the same information as professional technicians, unlike third-party alternatives.
Key Features
Content Value:
Enables DIY servicing, potentially saving $50-$60 per hour on labor costs.
Accessibility:
Instant download, no shipping delays or costs for physical products.
Usability:
Easy to use, print specific pages as needed, no advanced computer skills required.
Visual Aids:
Includes all necessary illustrations, diagrams, and photos.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Datsun 510 (sedan/wagon) and PL521 (pickup truck)
Style Coverage:
All styles covered
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided, but indicative of comprehensive coverage)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Origin:
Official Factory Manuals (Not 3rd party)
Language
Language:
English
Format
File Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
General Maintenance:
Included
Troubleshooting:
Included (Advanced troubleshooting guide)
Engine Service Repair:
Included
Transmission Service Repair:
Included
Brake System:
Included
Electrical System:
Included
Wiring Diagrams:
Included
Suspension:
Included
Periodic Lubrication:
Included
Steering:
Included
Cooling System:
Included
Fuel System:
Included (Fuel Injection / Fuel System)
Emission System:
Included
HVAC:
Included (Heater/Air Conditioning)
Engine Control System:
Included
Chassis Body:
Included
Restraint System:
Included
Interior:
Included
Drivetrain:
Included (Differential / Drive, Axle)
Procedures Included
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step guidance for all repairs
Maintenance Procedures:
Fundamentals of maintaining the vehicle
Diagnostic Procedures:
Advanced troubleshooting to diagnose and correct problems
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything to repair, maintain, rebuild, refurbish, or restore
Expertise Level:
Suitable for owners to perform repairs; reflects knowledge of factory-trained technicians
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Compatibility:
All PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac
Storage:
Saves to hard drive, can be burned to CD-ROM
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable without any restriction (single pages or entire manual)
Resolution:
High resolution
Searchability:
Searchable text for easy information retrieval
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Requirements
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder (OHC - Overhead Cam)
Common Engine Displacement Liter:
1.6L (J16) and 1.8L (L18)
Fuel System:
Carbureted (typically twin Hitachi side-draft carburetors, later models may have fuel injection variants in some markets, though the manual primarily focuses on common configurations).
Performance
Horsepower Range Hp:
Approximately 96-109 hp depending on engine and tuning (for L18 and J16 respectively).
Torque Range Lb Ft:
Approximately 110-118 lb-ft depending on engine and tuning.
Approximately 2,200 - 2,500 lbs depending on body style and configuration.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Standards:
Reflects safety standards of the era; manual covers restraint systems and structural components.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical configuration).
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Lap belts (standard for the era), manual will detail installation and care.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM radio (optional/standard depending on trim).
Driver Assistance
Features:
None (vehicle era predates modern driver assistance systems).
Connectivity
Features:
None (vehicle era predates modern connectivity).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, but manual provides specific recommendations.
Tune Up Interval:
Recommended at regular intervals, manual details procedures for ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, etc.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SE or SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (manual will specify exact grade and capacity).
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 gear oil (manual will specify viscosity and capacity).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (manual will provide ratio and capacity).
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Ignition points and condenser, carburetor wear, suspension bushings, clutch components, exhaust system corrosion.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, battery tray area (common for vehicles of this era).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Datsun (Nissan's export brand at the time)
Model Evolution
Introduction:
The Datsun 510 (Bluebird) was introduced in 1968, becoming a highly successful model known for its sporty handling and affordability. The PL521 pickup followed, offering a robust and reliable utility vehicle.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Market Impact:
Key to Datsun's growth in international markets, particularly North America, often seen as a competitor to European sports sedans like the BMW 2002.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Reputation:
Widely regarded as a classic Japanese sports sedan, praised for its handling, reliability, and relative affordability.