🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Datsun

Model:

510 PL521

Model Designation:

510 (sedan, coupe, wagon) / PL521 (pickup truck)

Year:

1968-1973

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Datsun 510 and PL521 owners, classic car enthusiasts, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics

Manual Superiority:

This is the factory-level documentation that professionals rely on, offering unparalleled accuracy and completeness compared to generic repair guides.

Key Selling Points:

Comprehensive coverage, detailed illustrations, step-by-step procedures, troubleshooting guides, factory accuracy, digital convenience, cost savings on repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All Datsun 510 and PL521 models, all engines, all trim levels, all transmission types

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, common issues

Transmission Service Repair:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, diagnostics, fluid changes, clutch service

Brake System:

Hydraulic system, drum brakes, disc brakes (where applicable), parking brake, bleeding procedures

Wiring Diagram:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Electrical System:

Starting and charging system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, accessories, troubleshooting

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, bushings, shock absorbers, ball joints

Periodic Lubrication:

Grease points, oil change intervals, fluid types, lubrication schedule

Steering:

Steering gearbox, steering linkage, power steering (if equipped), diagnostics

Cooling System:

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

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Carburetor service (for most variants), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, emissions control related to fuel system

Emission System:

Emission control devices, PCV system, EGR (where applicable), troubleshooting

Heater Air Conditional:

HVAC system operation, components, maintenance, basic troubleshooting

Engine Control System:

Ignition timing, carburetor adjustments, basic engine management principles

Chassis Body:

Body panel repair, frame specifications, mounting points, rust prevention

Restraint System:

Seat belt inspection and maintenance

Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard components, trim panels, carpet replacement

Differential Drive:

Rear axle service, differential oil, seals, bearings

Axle:

Front and rear axle components, CV joints (if applicable)

General Maintenance:

Regular checks, fluid top-offs, filter replacements, tune-ups

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based diagnosis

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, step-by-step instructions for all major component repairs and replacements

Disassembly Assembly:

Comprehensive guides for taking apart and reassembling all vehicle systems

Cleaning Reinstalling:

Procedures for cleaning parts during repair and proper reinstallation techniques

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and dedicated enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed troubleshooting guides for electrical and mechanical systems, enabling diagnosis of performance issues, starting problems, and operational faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Functionality:

Zoom IN/OUT enabled for detailed viewing

Binding:

Digital Download (N/A for physical binding)

Paper Type:

Digital Download (N/A for physical paper type)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip

Operating System Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Typical:

L16 (1.6L OHC inline-4)

Engine Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1600cc) for most 510 models, 1.3L (J13) available in some PL521 trucks.

Horsepower Typical:

Approximately 96 hp @ 5600 rpm (L16)

Torque Typical:

Approximately 100 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (L16)

Fuel Delivery:

Typically downdraft twin-choke carburetors (e.g., Hitachi SU-type or Hitachi-Solex) for L16. Mechanical fuel pump.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded or Leaded Gasoline (depending on specific market and year, often requiring lead substitute or hardened valve seats for modern unleaded fuel).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual (floor shift)

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic (limited availability, particularly on earlier models)

Transmission Features:

Synchromesh on all forward gears for manual transmission. Robust and reliable design.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 98.4 inches (2489 mm) for 510 sedan/coupe, approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm) for PL521 truck.

Curb Weight:

Varies by body style, approx. 2200-2500 lbs (1000-1134 kg) for 510 sedan/coupe, approx. 2300-2700 lbs (1043-1225 kg) for PL521 truck.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Era:

Reflects early safety standards. Seat belts are standard. Limited passive safety features by modern standards. No crash test ratings readily available from modern bodies.

Active Safety:

Effective braking system (disc front/drum rear on many 510s), predictable handling.

Passive Safety:

Seat belts, robust unibody construction for its era.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio (often optional), heater. No advanced infotainment features.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical reliability and driver engagement.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise intervals).

Tune Up Interval:

Periodic tune-ups recommended, including spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment, and filter replacement.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SF or SG rated, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-30 recommended depending on climate (verify specific viscosity in manual).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific Datsun recommended coolant type.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify specific grade in manual).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 (verify specific grade in manual).

Common Issues:

Rust (especially in rocker panels, floor pans, and wheel arches), carburetor tuning issues, worn suspension bushings, aging fuel lines, potential head gasket leaks in high-mileage engines.

📚 Vehicle History

Datsun Heritage:

Datsun (later Nissan) was renowned for producing reliable, affordable, and sporty vehicles that challenged established European and American manufacturers.

Datsun Legacy:

Datsun's commitment to rally sports and motorsport, especially with the 510, cemented its reputation for performance and durability.

510 Evolution:

The Datsun 510 (Bluebird) gained significant popularity for its European-inspired styling, independent rear suspension (on most sedans/coupes), and engaging driving dynamics, earning it the nickname 'poor man's BMW'.

Pl521 Evolution:

The PL521 pickup truck shared mechanical components with the 510 sedan but offered a practical and durable utility vehicle, popular for its affordability and utility.

Production Period:

1968-1973 model years.