🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Commodore Calais VK Series

Years Covered:

1984-1986

Chassis Code:

VK

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Premium luxury sedan within the Australian automotive market of the 1980s.

Key Competitors:

Ford Falcon, Mitsubishi Magna, potentially European luxury sedans (though at a different price point).

Vehicle Focus:

Comfort, refinement, luxury appointments, and performance for its era.

Manual Value Proposition:

Enables owners to perform DIY repairs, saving significant costs and empowering them with knowledge of their vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Complete Service & Repair Procedures A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'complete')

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All engine types and variants covered

Transmission:

All transmission types (manual and automatic) covered

Drivetrain:

Front engine, rear-wheel drive systems covered

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including components and adjustments

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, including disc and drum brakes (as applicable), master cylinder, calipers, lines, and adjustments

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, and linkages

Electrical:

Comprehensive electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starter, instrumentation, and accessories

Fuel:

Fuel system components, fuel pump, carburetor (for applicable models), fuel lines, and tank

Cooling:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan

Exhaust:

Exhaust manifold, pipes, muffler, and catalytic converter (if equipped)

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, and external trim components

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (if equipped)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, lubrication

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault finding guides

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing service, valve train adjustments

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid changes, filter replacement, clutch service (manual), transmission overhaul (automatic)

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing/replacement, brake fluid flush, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul

Suspension Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint service, tie rod end replacement, bushing replacement, wheel alignment procedures

Electrical Diagnostics:

Testing of circuits, components, and sensors; starter/alternator testing and replacement; battery service

Bodywork:

Door adjustment, window regulator repair, interior trim removal/installation, exterior trim replacement

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

Detail Level:

Step-by-step instructions with accompanying pictures for all service and repair jobs

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

All PC & MAC Computers, tablets, mobile phones

Required Software:

Adobe Reader (free download)

Printability:

Printable by page, chapter, or entire manual

Digital Binding:

Downloadable PDF

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Vk Calais Engine Options:

Likely 4.9L (304ci) V8 or 3.3L (202ci) Inline-6, with potential for other variants depending on specific model year and market.

Vk Calais V8 Horsepower:

Estimated 165-195 kW (123-145 kW) depending on specific V8 tune (e.g., 304 V8).

Vk Calais V8 Torque:

Estimated 380-420 Nm for V8 models.

Carburetion:

Likely Rochester Quadrajet or similar for V8, and Stromberg BXUV or similar for 6-cylinder engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (ULP)

🔧 Transmission

Vk Calais Transmission Options:

Likely optional 4-speed manual or 3-speed Turbo Hydramatic automatic transmission (e.g., THM200, THM700).

Vk Calais Automatic Features:

Torque converter, hydraulic control, potentially lock-up torque converter in later models/variants.

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by transmission and engine, detailed within the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2817 mm (110.9 in)

Length:

Approx. 4828 mm (190.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1710 mm (67.3 in)

Height:

Approx. 1385 mm (54.5 in)

Kerb Weight:

Varies by engine/transmission, typically 1400-1550 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Era Safety Standards:

Reflects 1980s Australian safety standards; features may include seatbelts, collapsible steering column, and reinforced cabin structure.

Braking System:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assistance standard.

Seatbelts:

Lap-sash seatbelts for front and rear occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with upgraded speaker options for Calais.

Power Steering:

Power-assisted steering was a common feature, enhancing drivability.

None:

No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB; era-appropriate technology.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000 km or 3 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specifications).

Major Service Interval:

Refer to manual for specific intervals for spark plugs, ignition timing, drive belts, etc. (e.g., 20,000-40,000 km).

Engine Oil Grade:

SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-40 API SG or higher (for V8 and 6-cylinder, depending on year and operating conditions). Check manual for exact specs.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron II or equivalent (e.g., for THM transmissions).

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, sills, around windows, and boot lid areas can be susceptible to rust.

Engine Wear:

Valve stem seals, piston rings, and main bearings can show wear on high-mileage vehicles.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring looms, corroded connectors, and failing relays can lead to intermittent electrical issues.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, thermostat failure, and water pump failure are common maintenance points.

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Legacy:

Holden is an iconic Australian automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing vehicles for the Australian market.

Commodore Lineage:

The Commodore VK was part of the third generation of the Holden Commodore, evolving from earlier designs and introducing significant styling and mechanical updates. The Calais represented the pinnacle of luxury within the VK range.

Vk Production Period:

October 1981 – February 1984 (VK generation, Calais variant introduced during this time)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Commodore Reputation:

The Commodore range generally received positive reviews for its comfort, space, and value for money in the Australian market. The Calais specifically was recognized for its luxury appointments.

Consumer Reviews Era:

Contemporary automotive press would have provided reviews focusing on performance, comfort, and handling for the era.