Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Holden enthusiasts.
Manual Advantage:
Provides vehicle-specific, factory-level data, superior to generic repair guides. Offers complete coverage for all VK models and engines.
Content Highlights:
Hundreds of illustrations, detailed wiring diagrams, comprehensive troubleshooting, and factory maintenance schedules.
User Benefit:
Enables cost savings through DIY repairs, simplifies complex procedures with step-by-step instructions.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Hundreds of illustrations and diagrams are a key selling point, aiding comprehension of complex procedures.
Main Coverage:
Comprehensive Service and Repair
Specific Models Covered:
All Commodore VK variants, All Calais VK variants
Engine Coverage:
All engines offered in the VK series
Estimated Pages:
Likely several hundred pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
File Format:
PDF Download
Powertrain:
Engine overhaul and rebuilding, Transmission removal and installation, In-car transmission servicing, Firing orders, Serpentine belt routings
Brakes:
Brake servicing procedures, Brake system diagnostics, Complete torque specifications for brake components
Chassis And Suspension:
Front end alignment procedures and specifications, Suspension system diagnostics and repair, U-joint and CV-joint service procedures
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, Computer diagnostic trouble tree charts, Computer diagnostic codes, Troubleshooting and diagnostics for electrical systems
Comfort And Convenience:
Sunroof service and repair, Air conditioning service and capacities
Engine Management:
Engine performance tuning, Timing belt replacement, Timing belt service procedures
Body And Trim:
While not explicitly listed as a primary focus, the comprehensive nature suggests coverage for body panel alignment, trim removal, and associated hardware.
Maintenance:
Factory maintenance schedules and charts, Routine fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Diagnostic flowcharts
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, Engine rebuilding, Transmission overhaul
Technical Data:
Complete torque specifications, Fluid capacities, Vacuum diagrams, Serpentine belt routings with diagrams
Depth:
Extensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilding, including detailed electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
The manual implies the use of basic diagnostic tools and specialized testers for engine and electrical systems of the era.
Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows & Mac. Requires Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip.
Features:
Searchable text, Zoom in/out functionality, Printable pages
Search Functionality:
PDF format allows for keyword searching, expediting the location of specific information.
Printability:
All pages are printable, allowing for enlarged copies of diagrams and illustrations.
Delivery Method:
Instant Download (Digital)
Physical Format:
Not applicable (Digital Format)
Common Engines:
Holden Red and Blue motor families, including 4.2L (253 cu in) V8, 5.0L (308 cu in) V8. Potentially 3.3L (202 cu in) Inline-6 (Blue Motor) and its injected variants (like the VK Berlina/Calais with RB30). Manual confirms coverage for *all* engines.
Horsepower Torque:
Specific figures vary by engine and configuration. The manual will provide exact data for each variant.
Induction Type:
Carbureted (e.g., Stromberg, Holley) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) depending on engine and model. The manual covers diagnostics for both.
Drive Type:
Timing chain for V8s, Timing belt for some Inline-6 variants (e.g., RB30).
Components:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan (mechanical or electric).
Oil Specifications:
The manual will detail required oil viscosity (e.g., SAE 20W-50, 10W-40) and API service classification.
Engine Management System:
For EFI models, a basic engine control unit (ECU) manages fuel injection and ignition timing, detailed in the manual's electrical sections.
Manual Transmission:
Commonly available 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., M21, M81).
Automatic Transmission:
Trimatic/Turbo Hydramatic 3-speed automatic, potentially the 4-speed 700R4 automatic in later VK models or specific performance variants.
Service Procedures:
In-car servicing, removal and installation, fluid type and capacity specifications.
Body Styles:
Sedan, Station Wagon, sometimes Coupe (Monaro variation).
Wheelbase:
Refer to specific model documentation; typically around 2750 mm for the VK Commodore sedan.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and body style, but generally ranging from approximately 1300 kg to 1550 kg.
Crash Test Data:
Formal crash test data from this era is limited by modern standards. The manual focuses on mechanical and electrical safety systems.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes (often ventilated), rear drum brakes. ABS was not standard on most VK models.
Restraints:
Seat belts (lap-sash front, lap rear), potential for front seat head restraints.
Wiring Schematics:
Crucial for diagnosing electrical faults that could impact safety systems.
Audio System:
Typically an AM/FM radio with cassette player, potentially with amplifier options for Calais models.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on higher trim levels, particularly for highway driving.
Diagnostics:
While not 'connected' in the modern sense, the manual's inclusion of computer diagnostic codes and trouble trees highlights the basic electronic diagnostic capabilities of the era.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 km or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. The manual will provide definitive factory intervals.
Tune Up Intervals:
Spark plugs, filters, and ignition components would have specified intervals, detailed in the manual's maintenance charts.
Coolant:
The manual will specify the type of coolant (e.g., ethylene glycol-based) and the correct mixing ratio with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
Will specify DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid depending on the system's requirements.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific Dexron type for automatics, and manual transmission fluid (MTF) specifications for manual gearboxes.
Common Problems:
Given the age, potential issues include carburetor wear, cooling system leaks, electrical connector corrosion, and fuel system component degradation. The manual is essential for diagnosing these.
Timing Belt Wear:
For engines equipped with timing belts, replacement at recommended intervals is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Holden Legacy:
Holden is a historic Australian automotive manufacturer known for building robust vehicles suited to Australian conditions.
Commodore Lineage:
The VK Commodore was the fourth generation of the Australian-made Holden Commodore, succeeding the VH and preceding the VL. It shared its platform with the Opel Senator/Rekord.
Production Period:
The VK series was produced from 1984 to 1986, marking a significant update to the platform with improved aerodynamics and new engine options.
Special Models:
While not explicitly detailed in the product description, VKs were often associated with performance variants like the Commodore SS or Calais luxury models.
