🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

HK Monaro GTS / Premier / Brougham

Model Variant:

GTS 307, GTS 327, Premier, Brougham, Belmont, Kingswood

Generation:

First Generation (HK Series)

Chassis Code:

HK

Engine Codes Gts 307:

LV2

Engine Codes Gts 327:

L30

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Holden HK Monaro enthusiasts, restorers, mechanics specializing in classic Holdens, and parts suppliers.

Value Proposition:

Extremely rare and valuable factory documentation for a highly sought-after Australian muscle car, providing definitive part identification and assembly data.

Availability Comparison:

Significantly rarer than common service manuals. Original physical copies command high prices ($200-$300+ on eBay), highlighting its scarcity.

Rarity:

Very Hard to Get Factory Catalogue.

Historical Significance:

Definitive reference for one of Australia's most iconic muscle cars.

Practical Utility:

Essential for accurate parts sourcing and correct assembly during restoration or repair.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

Holden HK Series: Belmont, Kingswood, Premier, Brougham, Monaro GTS 307, Monaro GTS 327

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed analysis suggests a comprehensive parts and assembly catalog, likely exceeding 400 pages. Specific page count not provided but implied to be extensive.

Manual Type:

Factory Parts and Assembly Catalogue / Workshop Manual Supplement

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

V8 Engines (307ci/5.0L, 327ci/5.4L), including fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, and exhaust systems.

Transmission Systems:

Manual and Automatic Transmissions (e.g., Muncie 4-speed, Powerglide 2-speed, Turbo Hydra-Matic 3-speed TH400).

Drivetrain:

Rear axle assemblies, driveshafts, universal joints.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (independent front, live rear axle), steering gear, linkages, and power steering systems.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes (standard on GTS, optional on others), rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Wiring harnesses, lighting, ignition system components, starter motor, generator/alternator, dashboard instruments, switches, and accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Body shell construction, doors, panels, trim, glass, chassis components, bumpers, and mounting hardware.

Interior Components:

Seats, dashboard assembly, interior trim panels, steering wheel, carpeting, sound deadening.

Fuel Tank System:

Fuel tank, lines, fuel pump.

Cooling System:

Radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat, fan.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, oil passages.

Assembly Procedures:

Detailed breakdown of component assembly for all covered models and trims.

Disassembly Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for the removal and disassembly of parts.

Part Identification:

Comprehensive identification of all original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts with associated part numbers.

Torque Specifications:

Crucial torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.

Troubleshooting Guidance:

Implied within assembly and part identification for correct component placement and function.

Adjustment Procedures:

Potential for basic adjustments related to brakes, clutch, carburetor (if applicable).

Depth Of Coverage:

Highly detailed, focusing on original factory assembly and parts cataloging. Essential for restoration, repair, and parts sourcing.

Diagnostic Focus:

Primarily focused on correct component identification and assembly rather than advanced electronic diagnostics, reflecting the era of the vehicle.

Restoration Utility:

Exceptional utility for concours-level restorations due to its part-specific detail.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text if OCR'd correctly, greatly enhancing usability.

Original Print Quality:

Factory original, which can vary but is generally clear for its intended purpose.

Digital Readability:

Described as 'VERY READABLE', indicating good clarity in PDF format.

Original Binding:

Likely a factory bound book, potentially hardback or robust paperback depending on the specific Holden publication.

Digital Equivalent:

No physical binding; digital document.

Original Paper Type:

Standard automotive manual paper, designed for durability in workshop environments.

Digital Storage:

Digital file, easily stored and accessed.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Holden Red Motor V8: 307 cubic inch (5.0L) and 327 cubic inch (5.4L)

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

Horsepower 307:

Approx. 214-220 bhp (SAE Gross) depending on carburetor configuration.

Torque 307:

Approx. 290-300 lb-ft (SAE Gross) depending on configuration.

Horsepower 327:

Approx. 250-275 bhp (SAE Gross) depending on carburetor configuration (e.g., 327 'Turbo-Fire').

Torque 327:

Approx. 330-340 lb-ft (SAE Gross) depending on configuration.

Carburetion:

Single or dual-barrel Stromberg, Rochester Quadrajet, or Holley carburetors depending on engine and trim.

Fuel Type:

Leaded or Unleaded Petrol (depending on specific engine tune and availability at the time).

Camshaft Type:

Hydraulic flat tappet (standard).

Ignition System:

Distributor-based, points and condenser ignition.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Column-shift 3-speed Manual (Belmont, Kingswood); Floor-shift 3-speed Manual (GTS, Premier, Brougham - optional).

Optional Transmission:

Muncie 4-speed Manual (GTS, Premier); Powerglide 2-speed Automatic (optional on some models); Turbo Hydra-Matic TH400 3-speed Automatic (standard on Brougham, optional on Premier/GTS).

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, diaphragm spring (for manual transmissions).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or SAE 90).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II (for Powerglide and TH400).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108 inches (2743 mm)

Length:

Approx. 186 inches (4724 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.5 inches (1359 mm) for Monaro Coupe

Kerb Weight Monaro Gts:

Approx. 2900-3100 lbs (1315-1406 kg) depending on engine and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated but generally around 3700-4000 lbs (1680-1815 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings comparable to modern standards were available during the HK series production era.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (standard on GTS, optional on others), rear drum brakes. Power assisted brakes optional.

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering. Power steering was an option on higher trims.

Seat Belts:

Lap-sash front seat belts were standard; rear seat belts were optional. This manual would detail their mounting points.

Body Construction:

Unitized body construction (Monocoque) with integrated safety features for its time, including crumple zones and reinforced passenger compartment.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamps (standard on GTS, optional on others) for improved visibility.

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

Factory AM radio with push-button presets. Optional AM/FM multiplex radios were available on higher trims.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically single dashboard speaker, with optional rear speakers.

Cruise Control:

Not available on HK series models.

Power Windows:

Optional on Premier and Brougham models, manual cranks standard on others.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards; primarily mechanical systems. The manual would detail the physical connections of the electrical system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever came first. This manual would provide precise details.

Tune Up Interval:

Points, condenser, and spark plug replacement generally every 6,000-12,000 miles (9,600-19,200 km), depending on usage.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SF or SG rated engine oil, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-30 typically recommended for V8 engines. Specific viscosity depends on climate. The manual would list the precise Holden recommendation.

Coolant Specification:

A mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and water (50/50 ratio) providing freeze and corrosion protection. Holden recommended specific coolant types of the era.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Rust Prone Areas:

Common Australian car rust areas: lower door skins, rear quarter panels (wheel arch area), floor pans, firewall, boot floor, inner guards.

Engine Wear:

Valve stem seals, timing chain wear, main bearing wear on high-mileage V8s. The 307 was known for reliability, while the 327 offered more performance but could be harder on components if pushed.

Suspension Wear:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings due to age and road conditions.

Electrical Gremlins:

Fraying wiring harnesses, worn electrical contacts, faulty voltage regulators, and carburetor issues are common with age.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

A factory parts catalog would list specific Holden part numbers (e.g., an early GM part number) for filters, spark plugs, brake pads, etc. This PDF is the definitive source for these.

Gasket Sets:

The manual would detail part numbers for engine rebuild kits, gasket sets, seals, and various other specific components needed for repairs.

📚 Vehicle History

Holden History:

Holden, Australia's iconic automotive manufacturer, established in 1856, transitioned to vehicle manufacturing in 1948. The HK series represented a significant step in Australian automotive design and performance.

Monaro Introduction:

The Monaro was first introduced in 1968 (HK series) as Holden's first purpose-built sports coupe, designed to compete with European and American imports. The GTS was the performance flagship.

Hk Series Launch:

Launched in October 1968, the HK series was Holden's first car to offer a V8 engine as a mainstream option across a wider range of models. It was a major sales success.

Production Years:

HK Series: October 1968 – 1969.

Manufacturing Location:

Australia (Fishermans Bend, Victoria).

Body Styles:

Monaro: 2-door Coupe; Belmont, Kingswood, Premier, Brougham: 4-door Sedan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

While specific awards might not be documented in this format, the HK Monaro was widely praised by the automotive press of its time for its styling, performance, and Australian-built identity, particularly the GTS models.

Historical Market Performance:

The HK series, including the Monaro, was a significant sales success for Holden, establishing the Monaro as a formidable Australian sports car and solidifying Holden's market leadership.

Factory Documentation Standard:

This manual represents the pinnacle of factory-issued documentation for its era, setting a high standard for parts and assembly clarity in Australian automotive manufacturing.