The Holden Drover, produced between 1985 and 1987, represents a robust and capable compact utility vehicle, a badge-engineered version of Suzuki's renowned off-road platform. Originating from Japan and sold in Australia under the Holden banner, this vehicle was designed with a focus on genuine 4WD capability and durable construction. Its key features include a body-on-frame chassis, a selectable four-wheel-drive system, and a compact yet potent 1.3-liter engine, making it a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and resilient vehicle for both on-road and off-road adventures. The Drover's engineering prioritizes simplicity and reliability, reflecting its utilitarian market positioning against other light 4x4s of its era.
This comprehensive workshop service repair manual provides detailed guidance for all mechanical and electrical systems of the Holden Drover (QB generation). It covers routine maintenance procedures, engine tune-ups, disassembly and assembly of major components, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair specifications. The manual is an essential resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians, offering in-depth information on the engine, drivetrain, transmission, brakes, steering, suspension, fuel system, cooling system, electrical system, and bodywork. With extensive technical detail, including wiring diagrams and exploded views, this manual ensures the proper maintenance and repair of your Drover, preserving its performance and longevity.
Model Years Covered:
1985-1987
Country Of Origin:
Australia (for Holden badging), Japan (Suzuki basis)
Market Position:
The Holden Drover (based on the Suzuki Vitara/Sierra) was positioned as a compact, affordable, and capable off-road utility vehicle in the Australian market during the mid-to-late 1980s. It competed with other small 4x4s and light commercial vehicles.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Daihatsu Rocky, Mitsubishi Pajero (early models), and other utility-focused SUVs of its era. Its key selling points were its robust construction, genuine off-road capability, and Holden's established dealer network.
Key Features:
Body-on-frame construction, selectable 4WD system, compact dimensions, surprisingly potent 1.3L engine for its size, and rugged utility. The QB generation is known for its simplicity and off-road prowess.
Coverage Areas:
All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, troubleshooting, diagnostics.
Page Count:
Not specified in product information, but inferred to be extensive given file size.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain (4WD system), Transmission, Clutch, Brakes, Steering, Suspension (Front and Rear), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Body and Frame, HVAC (if applicable), Lubrication.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, engine tune-up, disassembly and assembly of major components, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, repair specifications, replacement instructions, wiring harness repair, brake system servicing, suspension adjustments, driveline component servicing.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic charts and exploded diagrams.
File Format:
Digital (PDF)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital File)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital File)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text content within the PDF.
Primary Engine:
Suzuki G13A
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, Water-Cooled
Displacement:
1.3 Liters (1324 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 mm x 77.0 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (approx.)
Horsepower:
Approx. 63-68 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on tuning and market)
Torque:
Approx. 94-98 Nm @ 3500 rpm (depending on tuning and market)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (typically a downdraft unit, e.g., Mikuni Solex or Hitachi)
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition system
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5-4.0 Liters (with filter change, consult manual for exact specification)
Recommended Oil Grade:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific ambient temperature ranges)
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
3-Speed Automatic Transmission (less common in this generation/model)
Drivetrain:
Part-time 4WD system with selectable 2WD/4WD modes and typically a low-range transfer case.
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual; typically designed for off-road torque multiplication.
Transfer Case Ratios:
High range (1:1.0) and Low range (e.g., 2.0:1 or higher) for off-road traction.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: Gear Oil (e.g., GL-4 75W-90 or 80W-90). Automatic: ATF (Dexron II or similar). Consult manual for exact specifications.
Transmission Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Manual Gearbox: Approx. 2.0-2.5 Liters. Transfer Case: Approx. 1.0-1.5 Liters. (Consult manual)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2030 mm (80 inches) for SWB models.
Overall Length:
Approx. 3200-3400 mm (126-134 inches) for SWB.
Overall Width:
Approx. 1450-1500 mm (57-59 inches).
Overall Height:
Approx. 1670-1700 mm (66-67 inches).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 900-1050 kg (1980-2315 lbs) depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Consult vehicle placard, typically around 1400-1500 kg.
Tire Size:
Commonly 205/70R15 or similar all-terrain tires.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x139.7 mm (5x5.5 inches), commonly 5 studs.
Ratings:
No modern crash test data available for this era and vehicle type. Focus on robust mechanicals rather than advanced safety features.
Active Features:
Four-wheel drive system for enhanced traction.
Passive Features:
Basic seatbelts, sturdy body-on-frame construction. No airbags or ABS typical for this era.
Infotainment:
Basic AM/FM radio, likely with a cassette player. Minimal technological features.
Driver Assistance:
None. The 4WD system is the primary driver aid.
Service Intervals:
Engine oil & filter: 5,000-7,500 km. Air filter: 15,000-20,000 km. Spark plugs: 20,000-30,000 km. Gearbox/Transfer Case oil: 40,000-60,000 km. Coolant: 2 years or 40,000 km. (Refer to manual for precise intervals).
Fluid Specifications:
Engine Oil: 10W-30/10W-40. Coolant: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Brake Fluid: DOT 3. Power Steering Fluid (if equipped): ATF Dexron II. Gear Oil: GL-4 75W-90/80W-90. (Confirm with manual).
Known Issues:
Rust perforation (especially chassis and body mounts), carburetor performance issues, clutch wear, universal joint wear on driveshafts, potential electrical gremlins due to age. Overheating if cooling system is not maintained.
Common Repairs:
Front and rear differential rebuilds, clutch replacement, carburetor overhaul, replacement of worn suspension bushings, driveshaft U-joint replacement, radiator replacement.
Tune Up Procedures:
Includes checking/replacing spark plugs, ignition leads, distributor cap/rotor, adjusting ignition timing, cleaning/adjusting carburetor, replacing air filter, checking and topping up all fluids.
Brand Heritage:
Holden has a long and storied history in Australia, known for producing iconic Australian-designed and manufactured vehicles. While the Drover was a rebadged Suzuki, it represented Holden's entry into the compact 4x4 market.
Model Evolution:
The Holden Drover is a badge-engineered version of the Suzuki SJ series (also known as Samurai or Jimny in other markets). The QB generation corresponds to the early iterations of Suzuki's compact off-roader.
Production Period:
Holden badged versions were sold from 1985 to 1991, with the QB specific to the earlier part of this range (1985-1987).
Manufacturing Location:
Suzuki Samurai/Sierra models were produced in Japan, then exported and sold under the Holden brand in Australia.
Recognitions:
While specific awards for the Holden Drover are not widely documented, the Suzuki SJ series it's based on gained a reputation for ruggedness and capability in the off-road community globally.
Ratings:
Subjective ratings for off-road ability were generally positive for its class and era, emphasizing its go-anywhere nature.
Certifications:
Standard vehicle certifications for roadworthiness in Australia during its production period.
