Market Positioning:
The Datsun PL 510, affectionately known as the 'Bluebird' or 'Datsun 510', was a pivotal compact sedan for Nissan, credited with popularizing Japanese imports in North America. It competed with established models from American manufacturers and European marques, offering a blend of sporty handling, reliability, and affordability.
Key Competitors:
Ford Pinto, Chevrolet Vega, Toyota Corona, Mazda RX-2, Volkswagen Beetle
Key Selling Points:
Independent rear suspension (on most models), responsive handling, reliable 'L-series' engines, simple yet effective design, excellent value proposition.
Years Covered:
1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan (4-door)
Engine Variants Covered:
Primarily L16 (1.6L) engine. May include information on other L-series variants if applicable to the sedan models.
Page Count:
Unknown (Digital Download)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Full Engine Service and Repair (including disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and overhaul)
Transmission:
Service and Repair for Manual and Automatic Transmissions
Brakes:
Complete Brake System Diagnosis and Repair (including front discs, rear drums)
Electrical:
Comprehensive Electrical System Coverage, including Wiring Diagrams
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Service, Alignment, and Component Replacement
Steering:
Steering System Inspection, Repair, and Adjustment
Cooling:
Cooling System Maintenance and Repair (radiator, water pump, thermostat)
Fuel System:
Fuel System Service, including Carburetor Maintenance and Fuel Pump
Emission Control:
Emission System Components and Service Procedures
Chassis Body:
Chassis and Body Repair, Frame Data, and Panel Replacement Guidance
Restraint System:
Seatbelt and Interior Restraint System Information
Axles:
Axle and Drive Shaft Service and Repair
Periodic Lubrication:
Detailed lubrication points and schedule for chassis components
Fuel Injection:
This manual primarily covers carbureted models, as fuel injection was not standard on the PL 510 sedan during these years. If specific variants had early FI systems, they may be covered.
Engine Control System:
Basic mechanical and electrical control systems for the L16 engine.
Maintenance:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, and Preventive Care
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures and Solutions for Common Problems
Disassembly Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Refurbishment Renovation:
Guidance for restoring components and the vehicle
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes detailed electrical wiring schematics for various systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Reader Requirement:
Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free)
Compression Requirement:
WinZip or equivalent (for compressed files, if applicable)
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans suitable for printing
Binding Type:
Digital Download (N/A for print)
Paper Type:
Digital Download (N/A for print)
Engine Code Displacement:
L16 (1.6L / 1595cc) SOHC Inline-4
Bore X Stroke:
81.0 mm x 78.0 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on variant)
Horsepower:
Approx. 96-100 PS (95-99 hp) at 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 130-137 Nm (96-101 lb-ft) at 3600 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Carburetion:
Hitachi downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi-SU type or Hitachi twin-choke)
Ignition System:
Distributor with points and coil
Length:
Approx. 4,065 mm (160.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,595 mm (62.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,395 mm (54.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,440 mm (96.1 in)
Front Track:
Approx. 1,310 mm (51.6 in)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1,300 mm (51.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 960-1030 kg (2,116-2,270 lb)
Crash Test Information:
Limited official crash test data available from this era; emphasis on passive safety features common to the period.
Brakes:
Front disc, Rear drum brakes
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering mechanism
Seat Belts:
Standard seat belts (lap belts in front, lap belts in rear as standard)
Body Construction:
Unibody construction with integrated safety structure elements.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Tune Up:
Recommended at 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) for spark plugs, points, and distributor timing.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km) for manual and automatic transmissions.
Engine Oil:
API SE/CD or equivalent, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific recommendations)
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: GL-4 Gear Oil SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90; Automatic: Dexron-II or equivalent
Common Problems:
Rust (especially in wheel arches, rocker panels, and floor pans), aging electrical components, carburetor tuning issues, worn suspension bushings, clutch wear.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular undercoating, careful attention to cooling system maintenance, periodic inspection of rubber hoses and belts.
Manufacturer Origin:
Datsun is a brand of Nissan Motor Corporation of Japan.
Design Philosophy:
The PL 510 was designed to offer a sporty and sophisticated driving experience in a compact, affordable package. It drew inspiration from European sedans, particularly the BMW 1600, with its independent rear suspension and well-balanced chassis.
Production Period:
1968-1973 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan
