Vehicle Overview

For the true aficionado of Japanese automotive history, the 1965 through 1970 Nissan Datsun Fairlady 1600 holds an almost mythological status. Identified by the chassis codes SP311 for right-hand drive domestic-market examples and SPL311 for left-hand drive exports to North America, Europe, and Australia, this compact roadster was Nissan's second-generation attempt to crack the European-dominated sports car market. Building on lessons learned from the earlier Fairlady 1500 SP310, Nissan enlarged the engine bay to accommodate a more powerful mill while subtly restyling the body to give the car a longer, lower, more aggressive stance.

The mechanical heart is the R16, a 1,595cc (97.4 cubic inch) inline-four with a single overhead camshaft driven by a duplex roller chain - a notably sophisticated valvetrain architecture for a Japanese production engine in the mid-1960s. Breathing through a pair of SU HS6 or Mikuni-SOL carburetors, the R16 produced 96 to 103 horsepower depending on the specific market's tuning requirements, delivering its power through a fully synchronized four-speed manual transmission. The separate ladder-frame chassis, independent front suspension with coil springs, and leaf-sprung live rear axle offered a ride quality and handling balance that earned the Fairlady respect on both streets and emerging club-racing circuits.

Today, the SP311/SPL311 Fairlady 1600 commands growing attention from collectors who appreciate its blend of classic roadster aesthetics and historically significant engineering. Proper care of these vehicles demands accurate service information, detailed specifications, and the patience to follow factory procedures. This manual delivers exactly that - every procedure from valve adjustment to differential overhaul explained with the clarity and specificity that these remarkable machines deserve.

SERVICE & REPAIR SCOPE

• R16 engine complete disassembly and rebuild procedure covering cylinder head decarbonizing and valve seat reconditioning, camshaft lobe and bearing wear measurement, timing chain tensioner inspection, crankshaft main and rod bearing clearance measurement within factory specifications, piston ring end-gap verification, cylinder bore honing and out-of-round measurement, and complete oil pump service
• Twin SU HS6 or Mikuni-SOL carburetor rebuild including diaphragm inspection, jet sizing verification, float height setting, needle valve and seat replacement, throttle shaft bushing wear check, and twin-carb synchronization with vacuum gauge or Uni-syn method
• Point-type ignition distributor service with contact point gap setting, condenser capacitance testing, centrifugal advance weight and spring inspection, vacuum advance unit leak test, coil primary and secondary resistance measurement, and static and dynamic timing procedures
• Clutch removal and installation, friction disc thickness measurement against wear limits, pressure plate diaphragm spring height verification, flywheel face runout check (maximum 0.004 inches), release bearing inspection and pilot bearing replacement
• Four-speed manual transmission full teardown with gear tooth contact pattern inspection, synchronizer ring thickness measurement, shift fork-to-sleeve clearance check, bearing preload verification with dial indicator, and specified oil type and fill volume guidance
• Differential carrier service including pinion bearing preload adjustment, ring gear backlash setting, side bearing preload check, and axle shaft spline and seal inspection
• Front suspension complete service with ball joint load testing, upper and lower control arm bushing removal and installation, coil spring free-height measurement, shock absorber rebound and compression force verification, and wheel bearing adjustment with proper preload and end-play specifications
• Rear suspension overhaul with semi-elliptic leaf spring inter-leaf wear inspection, shackle bushing replacement, U-bolt torque sequence, spring pad condition check, and pinion angle measurement for driveline vibration diagnosis and correction
• Brake system overhaul covering front and rear drum brake shoe replacement, wheel cylinder rebuild with new cups and boots, master cylinder hone and seal replacement, flexible hose inspection and replacement, and complete system bleed procedure
• Steering gearbox adjustment with worm and roller lash setting, sector shaft end-play check, steering column universal joint inspection, and complete front alignment specification including camber, caster, and toe-in
• Electrical system diagnostics including generator or alternator output testing, voltage regulator adjustment, starter motor bench testing, complete wiring harness continuity verification, and lighting circuit troubleshooting
• Cooling system service covering water pump bearing and impeller inspection, thermostat opening temperature testing, radiator pressure cap verification, and cooling fan specification
• Body, interior, and convertible top service including door mechanism adjustment, instrument gauge testing, heater valve and core service, soft-top frame repair, and weather seal replacement

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Engine: Nissan R16 SOHC inline-four, 83.0 mm bore x 73.0 mm stroke, 1,595 cc
• Compression ratio: 9.0:1 (domestic); 8.6:1 (some export markets)
• Maximum power: 96-103 hp at approximately 6,000 rpm
• Torque: Approximately 90-95 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm
• Induction: Twin SU HS6 or Mikuni-SOL carburetors
• Ignition: Conventional contact-breaker point with distributor
• Transmission: 4-speed fully synchronized manual
• Clutch: Single dry plate, hydraulic or cable actuation (varies)
• Frame: Separate ladder type
• Front suspension: Independent, unequal-length A-arms, coil springs, telescopic dampers
• Rear suspension: Live axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs, telescopic dampers
• Brakes: Front and rear drums (early); front disc optional on later export models
• Steering: Recirculating ball, non-powered
• Wheelbase: 2,220 mm (87.4 inches)
• Kerb weight: Approximately 940-970 kg depending on specification

DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION

Systematic troubleshooting guidance addresses the most common issues encountered with aging Fairlady 1600s. Engine diagnostics include compression test interpretation with wear-limit thresholds, valve adjustment noise identification, oil pressure fault isolation at both low and high temperature conditions, and carburetor vacuum leak detection. The cooling system section covers head gasket failure symptoms, thermostat malfunction diagnosis, and water pump bearing failure early detection. Electrical troubleshooting provides step-by-step procedures for charging system failures (generator versus regulator issues), starter motor circuit analysis, and instrument gauge calibration. Drivetrain diagnosis covers synchronizer wear identification by gear position, differential bearing noise recognition, and universal joint failure symptom progression.

ILLUSTRATIONS & DIAGRAMS INCLUDED

The manual features numerous detailed exploded views, cross-sectional diagrams, and assembly illustrations. These include complete R16 engine section views showing all oil passages, cylinder head with valve train layout, carburetor cutaway with component identification, full wiring harness schematics for all market variants with color-coded conductors, front and rear suspension assembly drawings, brake hydraulic circuit layouts, steering gear adjustment illustrations, differential cross-section with bearing preload diagrams, and clutch assembly exploded views. Every illustration includes part number callouts and relevant torque specifications in both metric and imperial units.

COMPATIBILITY

This manual covers the 1965-1970 Nissan Datsun Fairlady 1600 across both SP311 (RHD domestic) and SPL311 (LHD export) chassis. It accounts for all production year variations, market-specific tuning differences between Japanese domestic and international markets, and running changes including brake system upgrades during the production cycle.

FILE PROPERTIES

High-quality searchable PDF viewable on any computer, tablet, or smartphone across Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. All pages are printable either in full or individually. English language content. Available as instant digital download upon purchase completion - no physical shipping. Open and reference the manual from any device at any time, whether in the garage, at a car show, or on the road.

Vehicle Overview

For the true aficionado of Japanese automotive history, the 1965 through 1970 Nissan Datsun Fairlady 1600 holds an almost mythological status. Identified by the chassis codes SP311 for right-hand drive domestic-market examples and SPL311 for left-hand drive exports to North America, Europe, and Australia, this compact roadster was Nissan's second-generation attempt to crack the European-dominated sports car market. Building on lessons learned from the earlier Fairlady 1500 SP310, Nissan enlarged the engine bay to accommodate a more powerful mill while subtly restyling the body to give the car a longer, lower, more aggressive stance.

The mechanical heart is the R16, a 1,595cc (97.4 cubic inch) inline-four with a single overhead camshaft driven by a duplex roller chain - a notably sophisticated valvetrain architecture for a Japanese production engine in the mid-1960s. Breathing through a pair of SU HS6 or Mikuni-SOL carburetors, the R16 produced 96 to 103 horsepower depending on the specific market's tuning requirements, delivering its power through a fully synchronized four-speed manual transmission. The separate ladder-frame chassis, independent front suspension with coil springs, and leaf-sprung live rear axle offered a ride quality and handling balance that earned the Fairlady respect on both streets and emerging club-racing circuits.

Today, the SP311/SPL311 Fairlady 1600 commands growing attention from collectors who appreciate its blend of classic roadster aesthetics and historically significant engineering. Proper care of these vehicles demands accurate service information, detailed specifications, and the patience to follow factory procedures. This manual delivers exactly that - every procedure from valve adjustment to differential overhaul explained with the clarity and specificity that these remarkable machines deserve.

SERVICE & REPAIR SCOPE

• R16 engine complete disassembly and rebuild procedure covering cylinder head decarbonizing and valve seat reconditioning, camshaft lobe and bearing wear measurement, timing chain tensioner inspection, crankshaft main and rod bearing clearance measurement within factory specifications, piston ring end-gap verification, cylinder bore honing and out-of-round measurement, and complete oil pump service
• Twin SU HS6 or Mikuni-SOL carburetor rebuild including diaphragm inspection, jet sizing verification, float height setting, needle valve and seat replacement, throttle shaft bushing wear check, and twin-carb synchronization with vacuum gauge or Uni-syn method
• Point-type ignition distributor service with contact point gap setting, condenser capacitance testing, centrifugal advance weight and spring inspection, vacuum advance unit leak test, coil primary and secondary resistance measurement, and static and dynamic timing procedures
• Clutch removal and installation, friction disc thickness measurement against wear limits, pressure plate diaphragm spring height verification, flywheel face runout check (maximum 0.004 inches), release bearing inspection and pilot bearing replacement
• Four-speed manual transmission full teardown with gear tooth contact pattern inspection, synchronizer ring thickness measurement, shift fork-to-sleeve clearance check, bearing preload verification with dial indicator, and specified oil type and fill volume guidance
• Differential carrier service including pinion bearing preload adjustment, ring gear backlash setting, side bearing preload check, and axle shaft spline and seal inspection
• Front suspension complete service with ball joint load testing, upper and lower control arm bushing removal and installation, coil spring free-height measurement, shock absorber rebound and compression force verification, and wheel bearing adjustment with proper preload and end-play specifications
• Rear suspension overhaul with semi-elliptic leaf spring inter-leaf wear inspection, shackle bushing replacement, U-bolt torque sequence, spring pad condition check, and pinion angle measurement for driveline vibration diagnosis and correction
• Brake system overhaul covering front and rear drum brake shoe replacement, wheel cylinder rebuild with new cups and boots, master cylinder hone and seal replacement, flexible hose inspection and replacement, and complete system bleed procedure
• Steering gearbox adjustment with worm and roller lash setting, sector shaft end-play check, steering column universal joint inspection, and complete front alignment specification including camber, caster, and toe-in
• Electrical system diagnostics including generator or alternator output testing, voltage regulator adjustment, starter motor bench testing, complete wiring harness continuity verification, and lighting circuit troubleshooting
• Cooling system service covering water pump bearing and impeller inspection, thermostat opening temperature testing, radiator pressure cap verification, and cooling fan specification
• Body, interior, and convertible top service including door mechanism adjustment, instrument gauge testing, heater valve and core service, soft-top frame repair, and weather seal replacement

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Engine: Nissan R16 SOHC inline-four, 83.0 mm bore x 73.0 mm stroke, 1,595 cc
• Compression ratio: 9.0:1 (domestic); 8.6:1 (some export markets)
• Maximum power: 96-103 hp at approximately 6,000 rpm
• Torque: Approximately 90-95 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm
• Induction: Twin SU HS6 or Mikuni-SOL carburetors
• Ignition: Conventional contact-breaker point with distributor
• Transmission: 4-speed fully synchronized manual
• Clutch: Single dry plate, hydraulic or cable actuation (varies)
• Frame: Separate ladder type
• Front suspension: Independent, unequal-length A-arms, coil springs, telescopic dampers
• Rear suspension: Live axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs, telescopic dampers
• Brakes: Front and rear drums (early); front disc optional on later export models
• Steering: Recirculating ball, non-powered
• Wheelbase: 2,220 mm (87.4 inches)
• Kerb weight: Approximately 940-970 kg depending on specification

DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION

Systematic troubleshooting guidance addresses the most common issues encountered with aging Fairlady 1600s. Engine diagnostics include compression test interpretation with wear-limit thresholds, valve adjustment noise identification, oil pressure fault isolation at both low and high temperature conditions, and carburetor vacuum leak detection. The cooling system section covers head gasket failure symptoms, thermostat malfunction diagnosis, and water pump bearing failure early detection. Electrical troubleshooting provides step-by-step procedures for charging system failures (generator versus regulator issues), starter motor circuit analysis, and instrument gauge calibration. Drivetrain diagnosis covers synchronizer wear identification by gear position, differential bearing noise recognition, and universal joint failure symptom progression.

ILLUSTRATIONS & DIAGRAMS INCLUDED

The manual features numerous detailed exploded views, cross-sectional diagrams, and assembly illustrations. These include complete R16 engine section views showing all oil passages, cylinder head with valve train layout, carburetor cutaway with component identification, full wiring harness schematics for all market variants with color-coded conductors, front and rear suspension assembly drawings, brake hydraulic circuit layouts, steering gear adjustment illustrations, differential cross-section with bearing preload diagrams, and clutch assembly exploded views. Every illustration includes part number callouts and relevant torque specifications in both metric and imperial units.

COMPATIBILITY

This manual covers the 1965-1970 Nissan Datsun Fairlady 1600 across both SP311 (RHD domestic) and SPL311 (LHD export) chassis. It accounts for all production year variations, market-specific tuning differences between Japanese domestic and international markets, and running changes including brake system upgrades during the production cycle.

FILE PROPERTIES

High-quality searchable PDF viewable on any computer, tablet, or smartphone across Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. All pages are printable either in full or individually. English language content. Available as instant digital download upon purchase completion - no physical shipping. Open and reference the manual from any device at any time, whether in the garage, at a car show, or on the road.