1977 Datsun 280Z Service Manual (P/N SM7E-0S30U0)

• Original OEM publication (printed in Japan, dated 1976) for authorized Nissan/Datsun dealers servicing the S30 Series in both 2-seater and 2+2-seater configurations.
• Covers the 2.7-liter L28 engine, detailing mechanical, electrical, and electronic fuel injection systems.
• Features 77 engine exploded-view diagrams, complete EFI wiring schematics, and multi-stage cylinder head tightening torque tables.
• Provides essential technical reference data for diagnostic and repair work on the 1977 model year release.
• Includes comprehensive sections on the clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, propeller shaft, and differential carrier.
• Details the front suspension, rear suspension, brake system, steering system, emission control, and air conditioning.

Mechanical and Electrical System Walkthrough

Working on vintage Z-cars requires precise factory data to maintain vehicle performance and personal safety. Always consult professional safety protocols before lifting the vehicle or opening pressurized fuel systems. Delivered as a high-quality PDF, this manual breaks down the complete L28 engine architecture. You will find factory documentation on assembly and disassembly for the overhead camshaft engine, providing step-by-step instructions for tasks that typically demand an expensive specialty shop, such as replacing the timing chain, accurately adjusting valve clearances, and calibrating the idle mixture ratio. The text covers exact limits for cylinder head surfacing, crankshaft bearing clearances, and valve train adjustments. Separate chapters dive into the Bosch-licensed L-Jetronic fuel injection system. The text details sensor inputs, cold start valve operation, and how the electronic control unit processes signals for both California and non-California variants.

When servicing the 1977 S30, technicians often encounter drivability issues that are misdiagnosed as an internal Air Flow Meter or control unit failure. In reality, a lean-running engine is frequently caused by unmetered air entering through microscopic cracks in the aged rubber intake boot. Furthermore, the long aluminum cylinder head is highly susceptible to warping if the multi-stage loosening and tightening sequence is ignored during removal.

Specification and Reference Data

Mechanics and DIY enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive troubleshooting matrices for diagnostic hurdles like ignition timing and fuel mixture ratios. The electrical section maps out the full EFI harness, ignition system, and engine sensors. To support complex teardowns, the publication features highly specific visual aids, including a valve timing diagram, a cross-sectional view of the Tem-coupling, the control unit block diagram, the torque sequence of cap bolts chart, and the L28 engine system piping layout. For the cooling system, the manual outlines radiator pressure testing and fan coupling characteristics.

Factory reference data is clearly tabulated for quick shop reference. Compression pressure for the L28 engine should read between 11.5 and 12.5 kg/cm² (164 to 178 psi). The coolant system capacity is set at 10.3 liters for manual transmission models, and the intake valve clearance on a cold engine is 0.20 mm. Having these precise baseline sensor resistance values and voltage drops directly on your bench allows you to test components with a multimeter, streamlining routine maintenance and ensuring you can properly fix the underlying issue on the first attempt.