🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Nissan Model: D21 Pickup Model Generation: Second Generation (D21) Body Style: Pickup Truck Production Years Covered: 1995-1998 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet managers, Nissan D21 owners seeking self-sufficiency Value Proposition: Empowers users with factory-level knowledge to perform repairs and maintenance, saving money and increasing confidence. Competitive Analysis Advantage: Provides official factory data, unlike generic aftermarket guides. Online delivery offers immediate access. Key Features Accessibility: Instant download to email, eliminating shipping wait times. Comprehensiveness: Covers all major repair and maintenance topics with detailed instructions and visuals. Diagnostic Support: Includes trouble codes, diagnostic charts, and wiring diagrams crucial for electrical issues. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Comprehensive Repair and Service Included Regions: Global (with specific adaptations for North American market as implied by common manual content) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely 1000+ pages (typical for factory service manuals covering multiple engine/drivetrain configurations) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Online Downloadable (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul, rebuilding, timing belt replacement, engine performance tuning, firing orders, serpentine belt routing, torque specifications, vacuum diagrams Engine Electrical: Wiring schematics, computer diagnostic trouble codes, computer diagnostic trouble tree charts, engine performance diagnostics Fuel System: Fuel injection systems, fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank (implied by engine overhaul and performance sections) Cooling System: Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses, fan clutch (implied by engine overhaul and maintenance) Exhaust System: Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes (implied by engine overhaul and performance) Transmission Manual: Removal and installation, in-car servicing, gear ratios, clutch service (implied by transmission coverage) Transmission Automatic: Removal and installation, in-car servicing, fluid capacities, torque converter service (implied by transmission coverage) Drivetrain: U-joint and CV-joint service procedures, driveshafts, differentials (implied by general repair) Brakes: Complete brake servicing procedures, disc and drum brake systems, parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped, implied by general brake coverage) Suspension: Front end alignment procedures and specifications, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, rear suspension components Steering: Steering rack/box, power steering system, tie rods, steering column (implied by front-end and alignment) Electrical System: Lighting, starting and charging system, fuses, relays, battery, ignition system (covered via wiring diagrams and troubleshooting) Body And Chassis: Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, sunroof service, door mechanisms, glass (implied by sunroof and general repair) Climate Control: Air conditioning service and capacities, heater core, HVAC components Procedures Included Maintenance: Factory maintenance schedules and charts, fluid change procedures, filter replacement, lubrication Troubleshooting: Trouble codes, diagnostics, trouble tree charts, component testing Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, component replacement, adjustments Rebuilding: Complete engine overhaul and rebuilding procedures Installation: Component installation, transmission removal and installation Alignment: Front end and alignment procedures and specifications Diagnostics: Computer diagnostic codes, troubleshooting and diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics Technical Depth Depth: Expert Level: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilding and advanced electrical diagnostics. Visual Aids: Hundreds of illustrations, diagrams, wiring schematics, and vacuum diagrams Data Availability: Detailed specifications on every model covered, complete torque specifications 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Likely searchable text-based PDF Printability: Printable Print Quality Quality: High-resolution digital reproduction of factory service manuals Binding Type Type: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Type: Not Applicable (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Common Engines D21 95-98: 2.4L KA24E (I4 SOHC), 2.4L KA24DE (I4 DOHC), 3.0L VG30E (V6 SOHC) Performance Ka24E Power Approx: 134 hp @ 5,600 rpm Ka24E Torque Approx: 154 lb-ft @ 2,400 rpm Ka24De Power Approx: 147 hp @ 5,600 rpm Ka24De Torque Approx: 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Vg30E Power Approx: 153 hp @ 4,800 rpm Vg30E Torque Approx: 180 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (confirm specific engine recommendations in manual) Maintenance Items Timing Belt Replacement Interval: Typically 60,000-90,000 miles (refer to manual for exact mileage based on engine) Spark Plug Type: Refer to manual for specific plugs (e.g., NGK BKR5E-11 for KA24DE) 🔧 Transmission Standard Availability: Available on most models Optional Availability: Automatic Transmission available on most models Features Transmission Types: 5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic Drivetrain: 2WD (RWD) and 4WD (4x4) configurations Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (confirm specific requirement in manual) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Nissan Matic D or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON (confirm specific requirement in manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 116.1 inches (2950 mm) for long-wheelbase King Cab Length: Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., King Cab Long Bed: ~211 inches) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3,400 - 3,900 lbs (depending on configuration) Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (V6 models with proper equipment, check manual for exact rating) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Features: Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player. Analog gauges and...
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (confirm specific engine recommendations in manual)
Maintenance Items
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Typically 60,000-90,000 miles (refer to manual for exact mileage based on engine)
Spark Plug Type:
Refer to manual for specific plugs (e.g., NGK BKR5E-11 for KA24DE)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Availability:
Available on most models
Optional
Availability:
Automatic Transmission available on most models
Features
Transmission Types:
5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic
Drivetrain:
2WD (RWD) and 4WD (4x4) configurations
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (confirm specific requirement in manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Nissan Matic D or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON (confirm specific requirement in manual)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
116.1 inches (2950 mm) for long-wheelbase King Cab
Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., King Cab Long Bed: ~211 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,400 - 3,900 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (V6 models with proper equipment, check manual for exact rating)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Features:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player. Analog gauges and controls.
Driver Assistance
Features:
Limited to basic safety features like seatbelts and potentially ABS on some higher trims/later models. No electronic driver assistance systems (e.g., traction control, stability control, adaptive cruise control).
Connectivity
Features:
No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone integration.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific oil type and interval based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment (refer to manual).
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (refer to manual).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or higher (confirm specific viscosity and API rating for engine in manual)
Coolant Type:
Nissan Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
Nissan Genuine PSF or equivalent ATF Dexteron II/III (confirm in manual)
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links (due to age and typical truck use), oxygen sensors, catalytic converter (on higher mileage vehicles).
Rust Prone Areas:
Cab corners, rocker panels, bed floor, frame rails (especially in regions with road salt).
Engine Specific Concerns:
KA24DE can develop oil consumption over time; VG30E can be prone to head gasket issues if overheated.
Part Numbers
Oil Filter Example:
Nissan 15208-H8901 (or equivalent such as Fram PH3593A, WIX 51042, Purolator L10019)
Air Filter Example:
Nissan 16546-V0100 (or equivalent such as Fram CA3611, WIX 42200)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage Link:
Continuation of Nissan's long history in the compact pickup truck market, building on the legacy of the Datsun Truck.
Model Evolution
Generation Timeline:
The D21 generation was produced from 1985 to 1997 (with some markets extending later). The 1995-1998 models represent the later phase of this generation, often featuring updated styling and powertrains.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in Japan and at Nissan's Smyrna, Tennessee plant for the North American market.
Nickname:
Nissan Hardbody (common nickname for the D21 generation due to its robust construction)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Standing:
The D21 'Hardbody' was widely recognized for its durability, reliability, and ruggedness, making it a popular choice for work and off-road use. It established Nissan's reputation in the compact truck segment.