Market Segment:
Performance-oriented compact sedan and coupe, a key model in Holden's strategy to compete in the growing small car market with a focus on sportiness.
Competitors:
Ford Escort, Chrysler Valiant (smaller variants), Datsun 1600, Toyota Corona.
Distinctive Features:
The Torana LC was renowned for its sporty handling, particularly the GTR and XU-1 variants, which became iconic in Australian motorsport.
Value For Buyers:
An indispensable resource for owners and restorers of the Holden Torana LC, providing accurate part identification and enabling correct component sourcing for maintenance and restoration projects.
Systems:
Identification, Engine & Clutch, Cooling, Oil, Electrical, Fuel, Exhaust, Carburettor, Transmissions, Brakes, Rear Axle, Front Suspension, Steering, Frame, Sheet Metal, Standard Parts, Miscellaneous, Body, Trim
Electrical System Detail:
Covers basic electrical components such as lighting, ignition, starter motor, generator/alternator, wiring harnesses, and switches.
Fuel System Detail:
Details fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, and carburettor components, including gaskets and linkages.
Cooling System Detail:
Radiator, water pump, hoses, thermostat, and fan components.
Brake System Detail:
Front disc brake components (calipers, pads, discs), rear drum brake components (shoes, drums, wheel cylinders), master cylinder, brake lines, and linkages.
Suspension Steering Detail:
Front suspension components (control arms, ball joints, springs, shock absorbers), steering box, steering column, tie rods, and steering arms.
Body Sheet Metal Detail:
Covers exterior panels such as doors, fenders, bonnet, boot lid, roof panel, quarter panels, bumpers, and associated trim and mounting hardware.
Trim Interior Detail:
Includes seats, door trims, dashboard components, headlining, carpeting, and interior trim pieces.
Standard Parts Detail:
Lists common fasteners, nuts, bolts, washers, clips, and other standard hardware used throughout the vehicle.
Frame Chassis Detail:
Details the structural frame or unibody construction components and mounting points.
Miscellaneous Components:
Includes items not fitting into other categories, such as exhaust systems, catalytic converters (if applicable), and various brackets.
Procedures:
Identification of parts, part number lookup, assembly/disassembly visualization through exploded diagrams, component sourcing. Does not include step-by-step repair procedures or diagnostic guides.
Depth:
Component level detail, providing part identification and assembly context. Essential for ordering correct parts and understanding component relationships.
Engine Options Covered:
186 CI (3.0L) inline-six, 186X (high-performance variant for XU-1), and potentially 161 CI (2.6L) inline-six, 202 CI (3.3L) inline-six for later LC models or shared components. Focus on 186X for XU-1.
Engine Displacement 186:
3045 cc (186 cubic inches)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Early Xu1 Performance Notes:
The 186X engine in the XU-1 was a homologation special featuring a triple-carburettor setup (often Weber or Stromberg), higher compression ratio, and improved camshaft, significantly boosting power output for racing.
Estimated Horsepower 186:
Approx. 135 hp (standard) to over 170 hp (186X with triple carbs).
Estimated Torque 186:
Approx. 170 lb-ft (standard) to over 190 lb-ft (186X).
Carburettor Types:
Single downdraft (e.g., Stromberg or Zenith) for base models, Dual or Triple downdraft carburettors (e.g., Weber, Stromberg) for GTR and XU-1 variants.
Engine Code 186X:
Specific code for the 186X engine used in XU-1, detailed within the manual.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, diaphragm spring type (common for the era).
Safety Ratings Era:
Safety standards and ratings were less stringent in this era compared to modern vehicles. The manual would not contain formal crash test ratings.
Active Safety Components:
Brake systems (front discs on performance models, rear drums), steering components, suspension components are covered for parts identification.
Passive Safety Components:
Body structure, door hinges, latches, seatbelt anchor points (parts covered).
Service Schedule Notes:
While this is a parts catalogue, it implies the need for regular maintenance on engine (oil, cooling), transmission, brakes, and suspension. Actual service intervals would be in a separate service manual.
Fluid Types Implied:
Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid (manual and automatic). Specific SAE viscosities and capacities are not detailed but can be inferred for components listed.
Common Torana Lc Issues:
Rust (especially in lower body panels, sills, and wheel arches), ignition system issues, carburettor tuning, worn suspension components, potential overheating in performance models under sustained load. Parts availability for some components can be challenging.
Part Number Importance:
Crucial for sourcing correct replacement parts, especially for less common items or specific trim levels like the GTR XU-1.
Holden Heritage:
Holden has a long and storied history in Australian automotive manufacturing, known for producing iconic models tailored to local conditions and preferences.
Torana Evolution:
The Torana was Holden's first compact car, initially launched as the HB in 1967. The LC, introduced in 1970, was a significant redesign, offering more powerful engine options and a distinct sporty character, culminating in the legendary XU-1.
Lc Production Period:
1970-1973 (LC model range).
Xu1 Significance:
The GTR XU-1 is considered the pinnacle of the Torana road car range and a homologation special for Group C touring car racing, achieving significant success in the Bathurst 500/1000.
