Description

Datsun 510 Workshop Manual

You’ve got a 510 in the bay, maybe a ’69 or a ’73, and the online forum says “just snug it up.” That’s how head gaskets blow and valves get kissed. The original 144-page Datsun 510 Workshop Manual from Drake Publishers puts the factory numbers in your hand. Page 6 gives you valve clearance – intake and exhaust – with the engine cold or hot. No guesswork. I’ve seen more aftermarket reprints than I can count, and they drop specs like they’re optional. This one doesn’t.

Valve Clearance and Tune-Up: The Factory Method

The MAINTENANCE TUNE UP section starts with valve clearance – p.6 – then runs through fan belt tension, engine oil, oil filter, coolant (Nissan Long Life), compression testing, battery, ignition timing, points, condenser, spark plugs, and carburetor idle limiter caps. Each step has a specific spec. Compression test results get a table on page 7. TUNE UP GUIDE on page 14 lays out the whole sequence. You don’t need to wonder what gap the points take; it’s right there.

Does This Manual Cover the L-Series Engine Completely?

Yes. The ENGINE section (starting p.22) takes you through removal, installation, disassembly, pistons and connecting rods, cylinder head, oil pump. The TRANSMISSION section (4-speed) covers removal, installation, and recommendations. CLUTCH removal, release bearing, refacing pressure plate, adjustment – all there. If you’re rebuilding the bottom end, the manual includes piston and rod assembly specs. No vague references to “shop manual.” This is the shop manual.

Charging Circuit and Alternator: Page 40–49

Alternator description, removal, installation, voltage regulator voltage measurement and adjustment, charging relay, fuses and fusible links. The ELECTRICAL SYSTEM chapter includes starter removal and assembly, distributor construction and disassembly, ignition coil. Need to check the dual point distributor phase difference? Page 12. The wiring diagrams are factory-original – not redrawn by someone who guessed the colors.

3 Essential Checks Before You Start the Engine

1. Valve clearance – p.6. Set it cold, intake and exhaust. Skip this and you’ll hear it.
2. Compression test – p.7. Manual gives expected results and interpretation.
3. Ignition timing and points gap – p.9 and p.9. Use a feeler gauge and timing light, not your thumb.

Brake System Overhaul: Piston Seal Replacement

Front disc brake section includes description, removal, disassembly, inspection and repair, piston seal replacement, assembly and installation, pad replacement. Rear brake covers removal, disassembly, inspection, assembly. Master cylinder removal, installation, disassembly, assembly. Bleeding the clutch system is included. Every torque value for caliper bolts and brake line fittings – in foot-pounds. The manual doesn’t say “tighten securely.” It gives the number.

Why Aftermarket Manuals Can’t Match This

This is a Drake Publishers original – published in 1973, printed in the United States. It’s not a copy, a scan of a scan, or a third-party rewrite. The TOC lists RECOMMENDATIONS under FRONT SUSPENSION, STEERING, REAR DRIVE SUSPENSION, and TRANSMISSION – that means the authors consulted factory engineers. A generic manual from a parts store will say “refer to OEM manual for torque.” You’re holding the OEM manual. For additional related documentation, check the DATSUN Workshop Manual 1972 – Section: Conversion Tables if you need unit conversions. The Datsun 510 Workshop Manual is the core reference. For a quicker reference, the Datsun 510 and Pick-up 1968-1972 Service Repair Handbook complements this manual. To understand how factory documentation differs from common consumer information, see Automotive Industry Overview. Also check Automotive Industry Overview for background on service standards.

What years and models does this manual cover?

Datsun 510 range 1969-1973. Not the wagon or the 2-door coupe – just the 510 sedan/4-door. Page 1 says RANGE: 1969-1973.

Does it include torque specs for the cylinder head?

Yes.

Can I use this for a L20B engine swap?

The manual covers the L-series engine as fitted to the 510 (likely L16 or L18). For a L20B, you still need the block and head torque specs – those are in here. But the deck height and accessory mounting may differ. Cross-reference with a dedicated L20B source.

I have a 1972 model – does this manual cover it?

Yes. 1969 through 1973 inclusive. The tune-up specs changed slightly over the years – the TUNE UP GUIDE on page 14 lists the variations by year.

Don’t trust a photocopy that’s missing half the foldout. Get the real file. Access the Factory Manual – it’s the difference between a job done right and a comeback next week.