🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Nissan Model: Datsun 260Z Model Year: 1974 Generation Generation Code: S30 (Second Generation Revision) Codes Chassis Code: HS30 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 260Z was a key model in establishing Datsun's reputation for performance, reliability, and value in the sports car market, bridging the gap between the iconic 240Z and later models. Competitive Analysis Competitors Era: Competed with established sports cars like the Jaguar E-Type (in its later, less potent forms), Chevrolet Corvette, Porsche 911, and Italian GT cars, often offering a more accessible price point and Japanese engineering reliability. Key Features Performance Focus: Emphasized a balance of performance, handling, and GT comfort, with a distinctive styling that remains highly sought after by collectors. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 1974 Nissan Datsun 260Z (all models and engines) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies, but comprehensive manuals for this era typically exceed 500 pages. Manual Type Type: Complete Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Yes, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components. Engine Lubrication: Yes, oil pump, oil filter, oil pressure, lubrication system diagnosis. Engine Cooling: Yes, radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan, coolant types, system flushing. Fuel System: Yes, carburetors (e.g., Hitachi SU type), fuel pump, fuel lines, filters, mixture adjustment. Exhaust System: Yes, manifold, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (if applicable for the market). Accelerator Control: Yes, throttle linkage, cables, pedal assembly. Clutch: Yes, clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, hydraulic system, adjustment. Manual Transmission: Yes, internal components, gear synchronization, fluid, repair, and overhaul. Automatic Transmission: Yes, for models equipped with an automatic transmission, including torque converter, hydraulic control, and overhaul. Propeller Shaft: Yes, universal joints, driveshaft balance, removal, and installation. Rear Final Drive: Yes, differential housing, gears, bearings, fluid, and backlash adjustment. Front Axle: Yes, kingpins, bearings, hub assemblies, steering knuckle. Rear Axle: Yes, axle shafts, bearings, housing, and seals. Front Suspension: Yes, MacPherson struts, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, alignment. Rear Suspension: Yes, independent rear suspension (IRS), trailing arms, control links, springs, shock absorbers, alignment. Wheels Tires: Yes, wheel specifications, bolt patterns, tire sizes, inflation pressures, rotation. Brake System: Yes, front discs, rear drums (or discs depending on market/spec), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, bleeding procedures. Steering System: Yes, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering (if equipped), alignment specifications. Body: Yes, body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, rust repair guidance. HVAC: Yes, heating system, ventilation, air conditioning (if factory equipped), component diagnosis and repair. Electrical System: Yes, battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring schematics, fuses, relays, troubleshooting. Maintenance: Yes, routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures. Procedures Included Diagnostic Procedures: Yes, detailed troubleshooting guides for various systems. Repair Procedures: Yes, step-by-step instructions for virtually all repair tasks. Rebuild Procedures: Yes, comprehensive guidance for major component overhauls (engine, transmission, differentials). Refurbishment Restoration: Yes, guidance applicable to restoring the vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: High quality, searchable, and bookmarked for easy navigation. Designed for clear viewing and printing. Binding Type Physical Binding Type: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Physical Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) Compatibility Operating Systems: All Versions of Windows, Mac, Linux OS, iPhone, iPad, Android devices. Requirements Software Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip (for unzipping files). ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC Engine Code: L26 Displacement: 2565 cc (2.6 Liters) Performance Horsepower Net: Approximately 162 hp @ 5600 rpm (US Spec, may vary by market and emission controls) Torque Net: Approximately 203 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (US Spec, may vary by market and emission controls) Fuel System Carburetion: Dual Hitachi-SU HJG 46 W carburetors (common US spec). 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed Automatic Transmission (optional) Features Clutch Type: Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated diaphragm spring clutch. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 90.7 inches (2301 mm) Length: 163.1 inches (4143 mm) Width: 64.2 inches (1631 mm) Height: 50.6 inches (1285 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 2830-2950 lbs (1284-1338 kg), depending on options. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Testing Era: Early 1970s safety standards, less stringent than modern vehicles. Structural integrity focused on crumple zones and passenger cell. Active Features Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard). Some models may have had rear discs. Passive Features Seatbelts: Standard seat belts (likely lap and shoulder belts). Body Construction: Monocoque chassis with integrated safety cell. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track player or cassette tape adapter provision. Driver Assistance...
The 260Z was a key model in establishing Datsun's reputation for performance, reliability, and value in the sports car market, bridging the gap between the iconic 240Z and later models.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors Era:
Competed with established sports cars like the Jaguar E-Type (in its later, less potent forms), Chevrolet Corvette, Porsche 911, and Italian GT cars, often offering a more accessible price point and Japanese engineering reliability.
Key Features
Performance Focus:
Emphasized a balance of performance, handling, and GT comfort, with a distinctive styling that remains highly sought after by collectors.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
1974 Nissan Datsun 260Z (all models and engines)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Varies, but comprehensive manuals for this era typically exceed 500 pages.
Manual Type
Type:
Complete Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Digital Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Yes, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components.
Engine Lubrication:
Yes, oil pump, oil filter, oil pressure, lubrication system diagnosis.
Engine Cooling:
Yes, radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan, coolant types, system flushing.
Yes, detailed troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Repair Procedures:
Yes, step-by-step instructions for virtually all repair tasks.
Rebuild Procedures:
Yes, comprehensive guidance for major component overhauls (engine, transmission, differentials).
Refurbishment Restoration:
Yes, guidance applicable to restoring the vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Quality:
High quality, searchable, and bookmarked for easy navigation. Designed for clear viewing and printing.
Binding Type
Physical Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Physical Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Compatibility
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows, Mac, Linux OS, iPhone, iPad, Android devices.
Requirements
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip (for unzipping files).
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Engine Code:
L26
Displacement:
2565 cc (2.6 Liters)
Performance
Horsepower Net:
Approximately 162 hp @ 5600 rpm (US Spec, may vary by market and emission controls)
Torque Net:
Approximately 203 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (US Spec, may vary by market and emission controls)
Fuel System
Carburetion:
Dual Hitachi-SU HJG 46 W carburetors (common US spec).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (optional)
Features
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated diaphragm spring clutch.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
90.7 inches (2301 mm)
Length:
163.1 inches (4143 mm)
Width:
64.2 inches (1631 mm)
Height:
50.6 inches (1285 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2830-2950 lbs (1284-1338 kg), depending on options.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Testing Era:
Early 1970s safety standards, less stringent than modern vehicles. Structural integrity focused on crumple zones and passenger cell.
Active Features
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard). Some models may have had rear discs.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Standard seat belts (likely lap and shoulder belts).
Body Construction:
Monocoque chassis with integrated safety cell.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track player or cassette tape adapter provision.
Driver Assistance
N A:
No electronic driver assistance systems typical of modern vehicles.
Connectivity
N A:
No connectivity features.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Tune Up:
Spark plugs, points, condenser, and timing adjustments at approximately 10,000-15,000 mile intervals.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SE Service Classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for seasonal variations).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Known Issues
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, strut towers, rear valence, and around window seals are common areas for rust due to age and construction.
Carburetor Issues:
Wear in needle valves and seats, sticking throttle linkages, and vacuum leaks in the SU carburetors can affect performance and drivability.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corrosion in connectors, and failing relays are common on vehicles of this age, leading to intermittent electrical faults.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings in control arms, sway bars, and differential mounts can degrade over time, leading to poor handling and noise.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Datsun Heritage:
Datsun (later Nissan) built a reputation for producing reliable, affordable, and capable vehicles, particularly in the compact and sports car segments, before transitioning fully to the Nissan brand.
Model Evolution
260Z Positioning:
The 260Z was an evolution of the highly successful 240Z, introduced to meet new US emissions regulations and market demands. It featured a larger engine and minor styling updates.
Production
Production Years:
The 260Z was produced from late 1973 to 1974, primarily for the 1974 model year. It was sold in North America, Australia, and Japan.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Icon:
The Datsun Z car series, including the 260Z, is widely recognized as a significant milestone in automotive history and a highly collectible classic sports car, often praised for its styling and performance.
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