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MOTRS

1600 / 510

1967-1973 / Sedan / Japan

All 1600 / 510 problems All workshop issues
Common Gearbox

Synchro Wear

Symptoms

Grinding when shifting into 2nd or 3rd gear, particularly on quick downshifts.

Cause

The standard 4-speed gearbox is not a strong unit. The synchro rings wear, particularly with enthusiastic driving. The gear teeth are adequate but not over-engineered.

Fix

Rebuild with new synchro rings ($600--1,200) or swap to a 5-speed from a later Datsun (240Z, 280ZX, or similar). The 5-speed is a stronger unit with an overdrive ratio that makes highway cruising more relaxed. 5-speed conversion: $500--1,500 including gearbox, crossmember modification, and propshaft adjustment.

Cost mentioned in fix
$600$500

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// More 1600 / 510 problems

Other known issues

Common Body and Structure

Floor Pan Corrosion

Soft, spongy, or perforated floor pans. Wet carpet after rain. Road noise increases noticeably as the floors thin. In extreme cases, the floor is partially or entirely gone.
Minor Body and Structure

Sill (Rocker Panel) Corrosion

The outer sill skin softens and crumbles. Door alignment changes as the inner sill structure weakens. The car may creak or flex over bumps.
Minor Body and Structure

Inner Guard and Strut Tower Corrosion

The inner front fenders around the MacPherson strut top mounts corrode and thin. In severe cases, the strut tower can deform under load.
Critical Body and Structure

Rear Wheel Arch Corrosion

Bubbling paint, perforation, and structural weakening of the inner and outer rear wheel arches.
Common Body and Structure

Spare Tyre Well Corrosion

The boot floor around the spare tyre well perforates. Water pools in the spare tyre recess.
Critical Engine -- L-Series (L16)

Oil Leaks

Oil seepage and dripping from multiple points on the engine. Common leak points: valve cover gasket, timing cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal, distributor shaft seal, cam seal.
View all 17 1600 / 510 problems