🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

Torana

Generation:

LJ

Production Years:

1972-1974

Manual Part Number:

M37608

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Holden Torana LJ was positioned as a compact sports sedan and coupe, competing with models like the Ford Escort and Chrysler Valiant Galant.

Competitive Analysis:

The LJ Torana, particularly the GTR and XU-1 variants, offered strong performance and sporty styling, making it a desirable choice for enthusiasts.

Key Features Of Manual:

Fully illustrated, comprehensive coverage of all LJ Torana models, including the high-performance XU-1, with exploded diagrams for every component.

Key Features Of Vehicle:

The LJ Torana was known for its lightweight construction, nimble handling, and potent engine options, especially the 2.6L 'six' in the XU-1.

Manual Utility:

Invaluable for enthusiasts, restorers, and mechanics needing to identify, order, or understand the fitment of original parts for the LJ Torana.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All LJ Torana models including 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder variants, GTR, and GTR XU-1

Alphabetical Index:

Includes an alphabetical index for quick access to parts.

Numerical Index:

Includes a numerical index, useful for cross-referencing part numbers.

Page Count:

502

Manual Type:

Illustrated Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Clutch:

Comprehensive coverage of all engine and clutch components for 4 and 6-cylinder engines.

Cooling And Oiling:

Detailed diagrams and part identification for radiator, hoses, water pump, oil pump, and lubrication systems.

Electrical:

Extensive breakdown of electrical components including wiring harnesses, ignition system, lighting, and accessories.

Fuel And Exhaust:

Parts catalog for fuel delivery systems (carburetors, fuel pumps) and exhaust manifolds, pipes, and mufflers.

Transmission:

Coverage of manual and automatic transmission components, including gears, shafts, and linkages.

Brakes:

Detailed parts listing for brake systems, including calipers, discs, drums, master cylinders, and lines.

Rear Axle:

Identification of rear axle components, differential, and drive shafts.

Suspension And Steering:

Complete parts breakdown for front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, and steering components.

Springs And Bumpers:

Detailed illustrations of suspension springs and all body bumpers.

Sheet Metal:

Extensive coverage of exterior body panels, including fenders, doors, hoods, and trunk lids.

Accessories Air Conditioning Heater:

Parts for factory fitted accessories, air conditioning systems, and heating units.

Doors Hardware Glass:

Comprehensive parts for door mechanisms, handles, locks, hinges, and all glass components.

Body Mouldings Seat Parts:

Identification of exterior trim mouldings and all internal seat components.

Body Sheet Metal:

Detailed listing for inner and outer body panels, chassis components, and structural parts.

Body Wiring Harness:

Specific diagrams and part numbers for various body wiring harnesses.

Headlinings Trim Seat Backs:

Parts for interior headlining, various trim panels, and seat back components.

Trim Carpets Mats:

Components related to interior carpeting, floor mats, and other trim pieces.

Interior Trim:

Detailed parts for seats, carpets, headlining, door trims, and dashboard components.

Body Hardware:

Includes all external and internal hardware such as hinges, latches, lock mechanisms, and window regulators.

Part Identification:

Identification of virtually every nut, bolt, and component through exploded diagrams.

Assembly Disassembly:

Implied via exploded diagrams, facilitating understanding of component relationships for assembly and disassembly.

Depth Of Coverage:

Highly detailed, comprehensive parts catalog suitable for restoration, repair, and parts sourcing.

Diagram Type:

Exploded diagrams providing intricate detail on how components fit together, essential for identification and reassembly.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Physical Print

Print Quality:

Original Holden Australia quality, designed for clarity and durability.

Binding Type:

Likely staple-bound or perfect-bound for original issue.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop use.

Completeness:

The product description states it's the 'last edition which includes all the updates', indicating a comprehensive and final version of the parts catalog for the LJ series.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Options:

4-cylinder (e.g., 1.6L Holden 'Starfire'), 6-cylinder (e.g., 2.85L, 3.3L Holden 'Red' or 'Blue' engines).

Gtr Xu-1 Engine:

Specialized 3.3L (202 cubic inch) 'Red' inline-six engine, tuned for motorsport with three Weber carburetors, high-performance camshaft, and revised cylinder head.

Gtr Xu-1 Power Output:

Approximately 160-170 bhp (119-127 kW) in race tune, standard road tune was lower.

Fuel System Xu-1:

Triple Weber 45 DCOE carburetors (standard for GTR XU-1).

Common Engine Codes:

161, 173, 186, 202 (cubic inches) for 6-cylinder; 125 (1.6L) for 4-cylinder.

Xu-1 Engine Displacement:

3.3 Litres (202 cubic inches)

Xu-1 Engine Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, overhead valve

Xu-1 Engine Cylinder Head:

D-Port cylinder head with improved porting and larger valves.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Often a 4-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission available on some models.

Transmission Features:

The GTR XU-1 featured a close-ratio 4-speed manual transmission specifically designed for performance driving.

Common Transmission Codes:

Trimatic (automatic), M20/M21 (manual).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2489 mm (98 inches).

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan.

Tare Weight Range:

Approx. 950 kg - 1150 kg depending on engine and body style.

Gtr Xu-1 Weight:

Approx. 1060 kg (tare).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No formal ANCAP or similar ratings existed for this era. Safety features were basic by modern standards.

Active Safety Features:

Front disc brakes (standard on most models), rear drum brakes.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (often lap-sash front, lap rear), padded dashboard and steering wheel.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic radio (AM) with optional FM, analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and temperature.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus was on mechanical systems and driver engagement.

Connectivity Features:

Not applicable.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-8,000 km or 6 months (pre-synthetic oil era recommendations).

Tune Up Interval:

Recommended annually or every 10,000-15,000 km, including spark plugs, points, condenser, and carburetor adjustment.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 for most 6-cylinder engines (check specific engine variant). For GTR XU-1, higher quality oils would have been recommended.

Coolant Specification:

Water/Ethylene Glycol mix (typically 50/50).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

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

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent.

Differential Oil:

GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90).

Known Issues:

Rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills, window surrounds), carburetor tuning complexities (especially triple Webers), ignition system reliability, clutch wear.

Parts Availability:

This parts catalog is crucial for sourcing original or reproduction parts for restoration and repair of the LJ Torana.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Holden, an Australian automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing popular and performance-oriented vehicles for the Australian market.

Model Evolution:

The Torana was introduced in 1967, evolving through the LC and concluding with the LJ in 1972. The LJ represented a significant facelift and performance upgrade, especially with the introduction of the GTR XU-1.

Gtr Xu-1 Significance:

The GTR XU-1 was a homologation special created for racing, becoming an Australian motorsport icon.

Production Location:

Australia (primarily Melbourne, Victoria).

Production Volume Lj:

While exact figures are hard to pinpoint for all variants, the LJ Torana was a significant seller for Holden during its production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The GTR XU-1 gained significant recognition through its success in Australian touring car racing, notably the Bathurst 500/1000, driven by Peter Brock and others.