Context:
The Holden Commodore VL was a significant model in Holden's history, representing a major styling and engineering update. It competed in the Australian large family car segment against rivals like Ford Falcon.
Rivals:
Ford Falcon EA/EB series, Mitsubishi Magna (early models), Toyota Camry (larger models).
Vl Distinctiveness:
Introduction of fuel injection as standard across the range, significant European styling influence (Bertone design), availability of the Nissan RB30 engine, improved aerodynamics.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, reducing reliance on costly dealership services and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
General Coverage:
All repairs, servicing, and troubleshooting procedures
Specific Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, driveshaft, differential, front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, front brakes, rear brakes, parking brake, hydraulic system, electrical system (wiring diagrams, components), body (interior trim, exterior panels, glass, locks), HVAC system, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting charts, specifications, torque values, capacities, exploded diagrams.
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (exact number not specified, but described as 'very detailed')
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
File Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, timing, lubrication, oil system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (if applicable, though VL was primarily injected), fuel injection system (Bosch LE-Jetronic), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, pressure testing.
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition leads, electronic ignition module, timing adjustment.
Transmission:
Manual (M21, M46) and Automatic (Trimatic, THM700 R4) transmission overhaul, adjustments, fluid changes.
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson strut, rear trailing arm and Watt's linkage. Bushings, ball joints, shock absorbers, steering rack, power steering system.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (optional rear discs on some models). Pad replacement, caliper overhaul, rotor machining, brake fluid flush, parking brake adjustment.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting system, dashboard instruments, power windows, central locking.
Body And Chassis:
Panel repairs, door adjustments, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation, weatherstripping, rust prevention.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake inspection, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault finding for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis issues.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque values, engine clearances, fluid capacities, alignment specifications, wear limits.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
PDF Features:
Printable (single pages or entire manual), searchable text, compatible with all computers (Windows & MAC).
Visuals:
Hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams.
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Usage:
Lifetime use, no expiry dates, no renewal fees, usable on multiple computers.
Vl Engine Options:
Holden 202ci (3.3L) Inline-6 (fuel injected), Nissan RB30E 3.0L Inline-6 (fuel injected), Nissan RB30ET 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (fuel injected - VK Group C homologation special and later production 'HDT'/'HSV' variants).
Rb30E Power Torque:
Approximately 100 kW (134 hp) @ 4800 rpm and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) @ 3200 rpm (specifications vary slightly by source).
Rb30Et Power Torque:
Approximately 150 kW (201 hp) @ 5600 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) @ 3200 rpm (specifications vary slightly by source).
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system.
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) manages fuel injection and ignition timing.
Coolant Type:
Recommended: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture with demineralised water (typically 50/50).
Manual Transmission:
Getrag M21 4-speed manual (common), M46 4-speed overdrive manual (less common).
Automatic Transmission:
Holden Trimatic 3-speed automatic, GM THM700 R4 4-speed automatic (often found in higher-spec models or conversions).
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter on THM700 R4 for improved fuel economy.
Automatic Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent) for Trimatic and THM700 R4 transmissions.
Manual Fluid:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W/90, specific viscosity may vary by manufacturer recommendation).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2850 mm (112.2 in)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4800 mm (189.0 in)
Length Wagon:
Approx. 4850 mm (190.9 in)
Kerb Weight Sedan:
Approx. 1350-1450 kg (2976-3197 lbs), varies by engine and options.
Kerb Weight Wagon:
Approx. 1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs), varies by engine and options.
Standard Wheel Size:
14-inch steel wheels (common), 15-inch alloy wheels available on higher trims.
Standard Tire Size:
185/70R14 (common), 195/65R15 (optional/performance models).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x105 mm
Ancap Rating:
Not directly comparable to modern ANCAP ratings. Safety was primarily based on Australian Design Rules (ADRs) of the era.
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assistance standard.
Seatbelts:
Front lap-sash seatbelts, rear lap belts (compliance with ADRs of the time).
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage structure, crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy.
Oil And Filter Change:
Recommended every 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific engine variant).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 20,000 km or 12 months (more frequently in dusty conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000-40,000 km (depending on plug type, refer to manual).
Coolant Flush And Refill:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 40,000-50,000 km.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 litres (with filter) for RB30 engines (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 recommended for naturally aspirated RB30. For turbo models or colder climates, 10W-30 may be preferred. Always consult the specific manual recommendation.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Vl Common Problems:
Head gasket failures (especially on early RB30 engines), oil leaks from various seals and gaskets, electrical gremlins (e.g., intermittent dashboard lights, fuel pump issues), rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills, door bottoms), worn suspension components (bushings, ball joints), automatic transmission issues (e.g., harsh shifting).
Vl Turbo Specific:
Turbocharger oil feed issues, intercooler leaks, increased wear on engine components due to higher stress.
Holden Legacy:
Holden has a long history of manufacturing cars in Australia, with the Commodore being its flagship model for decades, representing Australian automotive engineering and design.
Vl Development:
The VL was a significant update to the VK Commodore, featuring new European styling, the introduction of more advanced engines (Nissan RB series), and updated technology. It was a response to market demands for greater efficiency and performance.
Production Period:
1986-1988
Manufacturing Location:
Australia (Various Holden assembly plants)
Performance Models:
HDT (Holden Dealer Team) and later HSV (Holden Special Vehicles) produced enhanced versions, most notably the VL Calais, Group A SS (homologation special), and Walkinshaw models, often featuring the turbo RB30ET engine.
