🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Commodore

Engine Variant:

3.8L V6 Ecotec

Covered Generations:

VN, VP (and potentially later Ecotec applications based on description)

Engine Code:

Likely L36 (Ecotec 3800 series I) for VN/VP, but manual may cover later Ecotec variants with similar architecture.

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts and experienced mechanics looking to enhance or rebuild their Holden Commodore 3.8L V6 Ecotec engine.

Value Proposition:

Provides an inexpensive way to maintain and improve engine performance, offering detailed, visual guidance comparable to professional workshop manuals.

Features:

Detailed illustrations, step-by-step instructions, printable pages, instant download, comprehensive coverage of performance and rebuilding aspects.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Performance upgrades and comprehensive rebuilding of the Holden 3.8L V6 Ecotec engine.

Additional Coverage:

Diagnostics (EFI), Exhaust systems, Intake modifications, Supercharging, Turbocharging, ECU tuning (chips), Throttle bodies, Rocker arm ratios, Automatic transmissions, VN-VP EFI specifics, Stroking.

Efi Manual Specifics:

Explicit mention of 'VN-VP EFI MANUAL' indicates specific diagnostic and operational details for the early EFI systems fitted to these generations.

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed, hundreds of photos and illustrations suggest a substantial page count, likely exceeding 300 pages. Specific number not provided.

Type:

Performance and Rebuild Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine disassembly, assembly, component inspection, machining specifications, torque values, bearing clearances, piston ring gaps, valve stem seals, crankshaft and camshaft timing, cylinder head assembly, block preparation.

Engine Management Efi:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) diagnostics, sensor identification and testing, ECU mapping basics, fuel injector function, throttle body operation, idle control.

Performance Enhancement:

Detailed guidance on performance upgrades including intake manifold modifications, exhaust system tuning, camshaft selection and installation, cylinder head porting, stroking techniques, supercharging (e.g., Holden factory supercharger applications or aftermarket), turbocharging, and ECU remapping (chipping).

Transmission Automatic:

Overhaul and performance enhancement of automatic transmissions commonly paired with the 3.8L V6 (likely THM 700R4/4L60E derivatives or similar GM-based units).

Rebuilding Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for complete engine rebuilds, including short block assembly, long block assembly, and final engine installation.

Performance Modification Procedures:

Installation guides for performance parts like aftermarket camshafts, cylinder heads, intake systems, exhaust headers, and forced induction components. Includes tuning advice.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting techniques for EFI systems, common engine performance issues, and diagnostic routines.

Engine Diagnostics:

Includes 'DIAGNOSTICS EFI', covering common fault codes, sensor testing, and troubleshooting procedures for the engine management system.

Depth:

Comprehensive, ranging from basic maintenance and diagnostics to complete engine overhauls and advanced performance modifications, including forced induction and engine stroking.

Component Level Detail:

Covers specific component details for rebuilding, such as 'ROCKERS RATIO' and 'STROKING', indicating a high level of mechanical detail.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows & Mac.

Reader Requirement:

Requires Adobe PDF Reader.

Searchability:

PDF format typically allows for text searching, enhancing usability in a workshop environment.

Delivery Method:

Instant Download, eliminating shipping costs and wait times.

Printability:

All pages are printable for workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Holden Ecotec 3800 (likely Series I L36)

Configuration:

90-degree V6

Displacement:

3.8 Liters (3800 cc)

Stock Horsepower Estimated:

Typically around 165-180 kW (220-240 hp) depending on specific VN/VP model and tuning.

Stock Torque Estimated:

Typically around 300-330 Nm (220-245 lb-ft) depending on specific VN/VP model and tuning.

Performance Potential:

High, with significant gains possible through upgrades covered in the manual (intake, exhaust, cams, forced induction).

Forced Induction Coverage:

Detailed coverage of 'SUPERCHARGING', 'TURBOCHARGING', and 'JAP BLOWERS' highlights the manual's expertise in aftermarket forced induction for this engine.

Induction Type:

Naturally Aspirated (EFI), with coverage for Supercharging and Turbocharging.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Bore X Stroke Estimated:

93.5 mm x 90.9 mm (standard for 3.8L Ecotec)

Compression Ratio Estimated:

Typically 9.4:1 for early Ecotec models.

Valve Train:

Overhead Valve (OHV) with hydraulic roller lifters. Manual likely covers valve lift, duration, and rocker arm geometry for performance tuning.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Likely a GM 4-speed automatic (e.g., THM 700R4, 4L60, 4L60-E derivatives) was common, with manual transmissions also available.

Type:

Manual transmission (e.g., Getrag 5-speed).

Performance Coverage:

The manual explicitly covers 'Autoboxes', implying overhaul and potential performance upgrades for automatic transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles Covered:

Likely Sedan, possibly Wagon and Ute depending on the specific Commodore model variants targeted by the 'performance' aspect.

Curb Weight Range Estimated:

1450 kg - 1600 kg (varies by body style and specific model).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

N/A directly from manual description; typically ANCAP ratings applied to VN/VP era Commodores varied.

Covered Systems:

While not the primary focus, engine control and EFI diagnostics contribute to safe operation. Performance upgrades may impact safety characteristics.

Covered Systems:

N/A from manual description. Focus is on mechanical and performance aspects.

💡 Technology Features

Covered Systems:

N/A - manual focuses solely on engine performance and rebuilding.

Covered Systems:

N/A - manual focuses solely on engine performance and rebuilding.

ECU Tuning:

Explicitly mentions 'ECU-CHIPS' and 'THROTTLE BODYS', indicating coverage of engine computer tuning and throttle body modifications for performance.

🔧 Maintenance

General Recommendations:

Manual likely provides detailed rebuild specifications which supersede standard intervals. For general maintenance, refer to the vehicle's owner's manual for oil changes (e.g., 7,500-10,000 km), filter replacements, and spark plug changes.

Engine Oil:

Likely API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Consult specific vehicle owner's manual for exact viscosity and capacity. Manual may detail optimal oils for performance builds.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with deionized water. Manual may specify coolant types for high-performance applications.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Likely Dexron-III (or equivalent). Manual will detail specifics for the covered transmissions.

Oil Filter Part Numbers:

Part numbers are not provided in the description, but a comprehensive manual would typically include them for common filters (e.g., ACDelco, Ryco).

Common Failures:

Head gasket leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, early Ecotec oil consumption issues, worn harmonic balancers, some transmission issues depending on usage. Manual likely addresses these in diagnostics and rebuild sections.

Performance Upgrade Considerations:

Increased heat and stress from performance modifications require attention to cooling systems, oil lubrication, and robust internal components. Manual should guide these considerations.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Holden (Australian division of General Motors)

Commodore Lineage:

The VN/VP Commodore introduced the Ecotec V6, marking a significant step in Holden's engine development, focusing on refinement and efficiency while retaining performance.

Ecotec Significance:

The Ecotec 3800 V6 became a staple in Holden's lineup for many years, praised for its torque and durability, making it a popular choice for performance tuning.

Production Years Vn Vp:

VN: 1988-1991, VP: 1991-1993.

Manufacturing Location:

Australia

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

Holden Commodore VN/VP models received positive reception for their styling and the introduction of the Ecotec V6, establishing it as a strong competitor in the Australian market. Specific awards for the engine itself are less common than for the overall vehicle.

Technical Manual Rating:

Highly rated for its detailed content, especially for enthusiasts seeking to enhance or overhaul the 3.8L V6 Ecotec engine.