Just want to introduce Francis the datsun to you all.
Francis is owned by a good friend of mine (Terry), who bought Francis brand new in 1970.I'm helping Terry to sort out the issues bought on by Francis' mid life crisis(40 this year). During this 'make-over'I'll relay some of the adventures Terry & Francis have had together, some of the things we find in the make over and some of Terrys' Datsun "facts".
Terry Contacted me approx. 3 weeks ago because the original radiator core had corroded that bad water was actually running out.( from the early eighties terry only ever put tank water int the radiator)the mechanic that was attending to Francis couldn't find a new core or replacement. So Terry contacted me(slightly distressed) I was able to source a new 3 core core and a slightly larger bottom tank(that didn't have a drain).I supplied this for Francis and within a week they were both out and about again. now at this stage Terrys' mechanic put coolant into the engine.
I saw Terry at a club meeting and he told me that Francis' new radiator was leaking. It certainly was, so the next day Francis arrived at my shed and the radiator removed.The next day I got a call from the radiator shop, the top tank wasn't 'tinned' properly. when I picked it up they told me the new radiator, after 1 week was 3/4 blocked with oil and gunge. Bad News.
After further consultation with Terry we decided to do open heart surgery.
Engine Out

Francis is Terrys' daily drive and together have clocked up 282841miles (455000kms) on this engine. Only having a 100000mile odometer its on its 3rd run around.

just an awesome story, datsun love, nice to meet you francis :D

just had a brief chat with Terry. He and Francis first came together on the 18/12/70 for the princely sum of $2200.00.
A little distressing information I found out is that the last oil change that Francis received was on the 6th day of janurary in the year 1991.! Terry informed me by this stage Francis had a drinking problem(oil that is), and was drinking 1 pint (600mls) per 1000miles, so he figures just topping up would suffice, and francis never complained.

as you can see in this pic Francis is sporting one of the older style long oil filters(genuine)


After removal and a quick degrease (I believe these longer style filters have been NLA for over 10 years)

Isn't its name "Stu" -- that's what is says on the build plate...

Actually Francis' name comes from francis the talking mule.
Terry received a 'bobble head mule when he first bought the car.
It's still on the dash(maybe a little worse for wear.!!)

After being such a good little car it deserves some new parts, even a full rebuild would still be cheaper than a new car. Man they are such great cars stock, there is nothing quite like a factory 1200.

wow, not bad nick for a semi neglected original stocker 40 years on.

Thats quiet a nice car doesn't look to be much work...
but i'm sure if you strip it you might find some nasties in the usual spots