🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Datsun Model: Bluebird Year: 1969 Chassis Codes: PK610, PK611 (for 160B/180B variations), P510 (for 1300, 1400, 1600, 1800 sedans and wagons) Market Segment: Compact/Mid-size Sedan and Wagon Codes Product Name: Datsun 1300 1400 1600 1800 Bluebird 160B 180B 1969 Repair Service Manual 👋 Introduction Market Position Era Context: The Datsun Bluebird of this era was a significant player in the compact/mid-size car market, competing with established European and American marques. It was known for its reliability, efficiency, and increasing adoption of modern automotive technologies. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Vehicles such as the Toyota Corona, Ford Cortina, Vauxhall Victor, and various European sedans of similar displacement. Key Features Value Proposition: Reliability, fuel economy, and a robust yet relatively simple mechanical design, making them popular for everyday transportation and as a gateway for many into international automotive markets. Manual Value User Base: Essential for owners and mechanics working on these classic vehicles, providing factory-level information for proper upkeep and repair. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Vehicle Models Covered: Datsun Bluebird 1300, 1400, 1600, 1800, 160B, 180B Model Year Coverage: 1969 Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (typical factory repair manuals for this era range from 500-1000+ pages) Manual Type Type: Factory-style Repair Service Manual Purpose: Professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain (rear-wheel drive) Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (front disc, rear drum), Wheels and Tires Electrical: Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, Accessories Body: Body Panel Repair, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning - if applicable) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication Repair Disassembly Assembly: Step-by-step instructions for all major components and systems...
The Datsun Bluebird of this era was a significant player in the compact/mid-size car market, competing with established European and American marques. It was known for its reliability, efficiency, and increasing adoption of modern automotive technologies.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Vehicles such as the Toyota Corona, Ford Cortina, Vauxhall Victor, and various European sedans of similar displacement.
Key Features
Value Proposition:
Reliability, fuel economy, and a robust yet relatively simple mechanical design, making them popular for everyday transportation and as a gateway for many into international automotive markets.
Manual Value
User Base:
Essential for owners and mechanics working on these classic vehicles, providing factory-level information for proper upkeep and repair.
API GL-4, SAE 80W or 90W gear oil (specific type per manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-II or equivalent (specific type per manual)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon
Wheelbase:
Approx. 97.2 inches (2470 mm)
Length:
Approx. 163.0-165.0 inches (4140-4190 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2100-2300 lbs (950-1050 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Manufacturer specified, typically around 3000 lbs.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x114.3 mm (4.5 inches)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Era Standard Compliance:
Designed to meet safety standards prevalent in the late 1960s. Features may include basic crumple zones and safety glass.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes. Power assist may be optional or standard on higher trims.
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Standard front seat belts, rear belts may be optional or absent depending on original specification and market.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column (design dependent on specific chassis and market regulations).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Typically an AM radio, with FM stereo often an optional upgrade. Aftermarket head units are common in restored vehicles.
Driver Assistance
Features:
Minimal by modern standards. Primarily mechanical systems like power steering (optional) and power brakes (optional).
Connectivity
Features:
N/A (no modern connectivity features).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify exact interval.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, points, condenser, and ignition timing adjustment usually recommended every 10,000-15,000 miles. Manual will detail.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles for manual, more frequent for automatic transmissions. Manual provides specific guidance.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50 depending on climate and engine condition. Manual is definitive.
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water. Manual specifies type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (check manual for specific type and DOT rating).
Known Issues
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue on vehicles of this age, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Floor pans, sills, and wheel arches are common areas.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can require frequent adjustment and rebuilding due to age and wear, affecting fuel economy and engine performance.
Ignition System:
Points, condenser, and ignition coils are wear items that require regular inspection and replacement for optimal performance.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers can wear over time, leading to degraded handling and ride comfort.
Filter Part Numbers
Oil Filter:
Refer to the manual or cross-reference with reputable filter manufacturers (e.g., Fram PH8A, Wix 51515, Purolator L30001 - verification needed for specific engine).
Air Filter:
Specific to engine and carburetor. Manual or cross-reference required.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Company Origin:
Datsun (now Nissan) originated in Japan and established itself as a manufacturer of reliable and affordable vehicles for both domestic and international markets.
Model Evolution
Bluebird Lineage:
The Bluebird model line has a long history with Datsun, with the 1969 models belonging to the P510 generation, renowned for its sophisticated styling (often compared to European cars of the era), independent rear suspension on some variants, and sporty driving characteristics.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with assembly in other international locations.
Production Years P510:
1968-1977 (for the P510 generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Reputation:
The Datsun Bluebird P510 generation is widely recognized as a highly influential and stylish car of its era, often praised for its handling and build quality. It helped establish Datsun as a serious automotive competitor globally.