Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Hi gang, was working with a member on a couple of what are now common known "must have's/do's" for keeping a U20 alive long term, specifically having an oil drain back tube and shimming the upper tensioner, and I didn't find any specific information or instructions about these items. I was thinking i could refer him to the wiki for info on the tube and how to do the tensioner. Am I looking in the wrong place or do these need to be added? Who sells the tube? What other things should be added?

Hey Greg, There is a death rattle write up in the wiki http://www.311s.org/pmwiki-311/pmwiki.p ... .EngineU20. The best one I have seen is the one Keith Williams did on the "datsunroadsterranch.com" site which I believe is no longer. It appears that 311s brought the SU content over to the wiki from the roadster ranch site but not the "evil L" content. Not sure why?

I think Ross has the anti-drain tubes - at least he did not too long ago.

My thoughts on "care and feeding" of the U20

1) Inspect for upper chain for stretch/slop and shim upper tensioner if required
2) Anti drain back tube (as you have stated)
3) Valve clearance checks and adjustment
4) Non-ethanol gas if you can get it - use an additive if you can't
5) Regular tune ups (Plugs, points, rotor, condenser, a little grease on the distributor cam, maybe wires, Ignition timing and points dwell, air and fuel filter elements) all of this depends on miles driven but points do arc and pit...so check them regularly or go with the electronic distributor
6) Carb mixture and balance checks although SUs are pretty stable once you get them dialed in

Joe,

This site: https://datsunroadsterranch.com/

spl310 wrote: Wed Mar 17, 2021 9:58 am Joe,

This site: https://datsunroadsterranch.com/

Yep, that's the one - note the 311s logo at the very end but I don't see a link to the "evil L" write up. The site used to have a home page with a sketch of a roadster at the top... You can get to the same URL from the tech wiki

Do you see a link to "evil L"?

Joe,

No, I didn't see it. I will try to find it later.

Good thoughts Joe. Perhaps the group could come up with a "keep your Roadster alive/happy" list for folks to follow, kinda like the inspection check list that went around some time ago. I'd be happy to help author some write ups that could be reviewed for content and accuracy by us all and then posted to the wiki. We could have some specifics for the different models, but could also include things like "adding an emergency trunk and hood release" that are universal, as well as suggestions to use anti-seize on the studs for the R16 thermostat tower since they always seem to require cutting things off! There's a ton of info on this site, but sometimes it's hard to find it, especially if you're new to the car and our terminology.

I agree Greg. Would be good to have the "happy" list by engine/transmission type and general body (early and late). There would be a lot of sub-sections on each but well worth the effort. I tried to keep my thoughts to the U20 and quickly realized there are a lot of universal things like you mention above (like emergency hood and trunk release). I am sure the list will contribute openly.

I just did an engine pull, and found (age related) that it isn't removing all the stuff that kills you, it is getting up and down 2-3 times getting the right size wrench. So I taped the TechWiki removal list on the windshield and wrote down all the bolt sizes as I took things off (some might be 69 2000 exclusive, but it is start), I will be amending it and sending it off to Steve for update.

The other "good to update" is added ground wiring.
Alt to block.
Block to frame.
Starter to frame. (am I leaving one out?)

Check the trunk floor for cracks. Stick wood block (suggested size?) between straps and frame crossbar to try and decrease crack spread. (trying to get strap to pull in tension, instead of trying to rip out)

Don't let positive battery cable rest on bellhousing on its way over to starter.