Skip to content
MOTRS

1600 / 510

1967-1973 / Sedan / Japan

All 1600 / 510 problems All workshop issues
Critical Engine -- L-Series (L16)

Timing Chain and Tensioner Wear

Symptoms

Rattling or slapping noise from the front of the engine, particularly on cold start. In severe cases, the chain skips a tooth, altering valve timing and potentially causing valve-to-piston contact.

Cause

The timing chain stretches and the tensioner wears over 100,000+ km. The chain guide rails also wear and can break, allowing the chain to contact the timing cover.

Fix

Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides as a set.

This is a common and well-documented job on the L-series.

Cost: $200--500.

Cost mentioned in fix
Cost: $200

Know something we don't?

Owned a Datsun 1600 / 510? Share your experience with this issue. What worked, what didn't, costs, tips. Help the community.

Submit an update
// More 1600 / 510 problems

Other known issues

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.
Minor Engine -- L-Series (L16)

Overheating

Temperature gauge climbs, particularly in traffic or on hot days. Coolant loss.
Critical Engine -- L-Series (L16)

Head Gasket Failure

Coolant in the oil (milky residue on dipstick), oil in the coolant, white exhaust smoke, persistent overheating, coolant consumption.
Common Engine -- L-Series (L16)

Carburettor Wear

Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, poor fuel economy, rich or lean running.
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.
View all 17 1600 / 510 problems