🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Datsun Model: 510 Model Generation: First Generation (A-series chassis) Production Years Covered: 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973 Chassis Code: A-series (e.g., 510, 510-W, 510-R) 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Datsun 510 owners, enthusiasts, classic car restorers, independent repair shops Value Proposition: Enables significant cost savings on repairs and maintenance by empowering owners to perform work themselves. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Other generic Datsun 510 repair guides, less comprehensive online resources, official (but potentially harder to find) factory manuals. Key Features Instruction Style: Easy to follow step-by-step instructions Visual Aids: Includes pictures and wiring diagrams Accessibility: Instant digital download, accessible from PC Knowledge Empowerment: Increases user knowledge and reduces reliance on mechanics 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Title: WSM Service Manual Repair Primary Coverage: Comprehensive service and repair for Datsun 510 Coverage Scope: All areas of repair and routine maintenance Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (typical WSMs for this era are 500+ pages) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Service Manual (WSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF Delivery Method: Instant Download Requirements Software Requirement: Adobe PDF Reader System Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine overhaul, internal components, timing, lubrication Engine Fuel System: Carburetor(s) (e.g., Hitachi SU, Mikuni), fuel pump, fuel lines, emissions control systems Engine Ignition System: Distributor, coil, spark plugs, wiring, timing adjustments Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan Exhaust System: Manifolds, pipes, mufflers, catalytic converters (if applicable) Transmission Manual: Clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, fluid specifications Transmission Automatic: If equipped (e.g., 3-speed AT), transmission overhaul, hydraulic systems, fluid specifications Drivetrain: Driveshafts, U-joints, differential, rear axle assembly Suspension Front: MacPherson struts, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers Suspension Rear: Multi-link solid axle, trailing arms, Panhard rod, springs, shock absorbers Steering System: Steering box, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment specifications Brake System: Front discs, rear drums, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, bleeding procedures Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, gauges, switches, fuses Body Exterior: Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, glass, trim Body Interior: Seats, dashboard, door panels, carpeting, headliner Heating And Ventilation: HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, ducting Body Structure: Frame, chassis components, rust repair considerations Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks, lubrication points Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation Overhaul Procedures: Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions Electrical Troubleshooting: Using wiring diagrams to diagnose electrical faults Carburetor Tuning: Adjustment and rebuilding of specific carburetor models Wheel Alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures Brake Adjustment And Repair: Drum and disc brake servicing Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: In-depth, professional quality, suitable for DIY and professional mechanics Illustrations And Diagrams: Includes pictures and wiring diagrams for clarity Specifications And Tolerances: Detailed technical specifications and measurement tolerances for critical components 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing quick access to information Print Quality Printability: Full Printable - User can print specific pages or the entire manual Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download - No physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download - No physical paper) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: Nissan L-series (specifically L13, L16, L18, L20B depending on market and trim) Engine Displacement Common Displacement 1: 1.6 L (1595 cc) Common Displacement 2: 1.8 L (1770 cc) Engine Configuration Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 90-120 hp (depending on engine variant and tuning) Torque Range: Approximately 100-120 lb-ft (depending on engine variant) Fuel System Carburetion: Single or dual Hitachi SU carburetors; later models and performance variants might use Mikuni or Weber carburetors. Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (though early models may have been designed for leaded fuel, unleaded is common for modern use) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed manual gearbox Optional Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed automatic transmission (less common than manual) Features Clutch Type: Single dry plate, diaphragm spring clutch Gear Ratios: Specific gear ratios will be detailed within the manual for both manual and automatic transmissions. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, 5-door station wagon (Wagon variant often designated as 510-W) Wheelbase: Approx. 98.4 inches (2499 mm) Overall Length: Approx. 160-165 inches (4064-4191 mm), varies slightly by body style Overall Width: Approx. 63.8 inches (1620 mm) Overall Height: Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2,100-2,400 lbs (950-1090 kg), varies by body style and equipment 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Historical Safety Standards: Meets safety standards of its era. Modern safety rating equivalents are not applicable. Active Features Braking System: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard). Some performance variants might have had power assist. Steering System: Recirculating ball steering...
Approximately 90-120 hp (depending on engine variant and tuning)
Torque Range:
Approximately 100-120 lb-ft (depending on engine variant)
Fuel System
Carburetion:
Single or dual Hitachi SU carburetors; later models and performance variants might use Mikuni or Weber carburetors.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (though early models may have been designed for leaded fuel, unleaded is common for modern use)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed manual gearbox
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed automatic transmission (less common than manual)
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, diaphragm spring clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios will be detailed within the manual for both manual and automatic transmissions.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
2-door sedan, 4-door sedan, 5-door station wagon (Wagon variant often designated as 510-W)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.4 inches (2499 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 160-165 inches (4064-4191 mm), varies slightly by body style
Overall Width:
Approx. 63.8 inches (1620 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,100-2,400 lbs (950-1090 kg), varies by body style and equipment
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Historical Safety Standards:
Meets safety standards of its era. Modern safety rating equivalents are not applicable.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard). Some performance variants might have had power assist.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering mechanism. No power steering standard.
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Lap belts standard; shoulder belts may have been optional or standard on later models/specific trims.
Body Construction:
Unit-body construction.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio; aftermarket upgrades are common.
Gauges:
Basic instrument cluster including speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure light, and ammeter/battery light.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Not typically factory-equipped.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Inputs:
Not applicable (pre-digital era).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, points, and condenser checks/replacement typically every 10,000-20,000 miles (16,000-32,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Periodic inspection, change as needed or every 30,000-50,000 miles. Automatic: Refer to manual, typically 20,000-30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API Service Classification SG or higher (modern equivalent SE/SF/SG or higher with appropriate viscosity).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 10W-40 typically recommended for most conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (specific viscosity may vary).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-II or equivalent (verify specific type with manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compatibility with seals).
Known Issues
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue in vintage vehicles, especially in areas exposed to salt and moisture (wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans).
Carburetor Tuning:
Hitachi SU carburetors can be sensitive and require periodic adjustment/rebuilding for optimal performance.
Ignition Points And Condenser:
Wear items requiring regular inspection and potential replacement to maintain engine performance.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in control arms and suspension links can degrade over time, affecting handling and ride quality.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origin:
Datsun, a marque of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., known for reliable and sporty vehicles.
Model Evolution
Design Philosophy:
The 510 was designed as a compact, sporty, and affordable sedan, often compared to European sedans of the era for its driving dynamics and handling.
Key Variants:
The 'Bluebird' name was used in some markets. The 'SSS' (Super Sport Sedan) trim was a popular performance variant.
Racing Heritage:
The Datsun 510 achieved significant success in motorsports, particularly in Trans-Am racing, solidifying its sporty reputation.
Production
Production Location:
Primarily Japan (Oppama Plant), also assembled in other locations depending on market.
Sales Success:
Highly popular globally, particularly in North America, Australia, and Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motorsport Success:
Highly successful in motorsports, particularly in the SCCA Trans-Am series, earning it the nickname 'The Dime-a-Dozen Datsun' due to its competitive nature.
Critical Reception:
Praised for its agile handling, good fuel economy, and affordability; often considered a benchmark for compact sports sedans of its time.