🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

48-215 (also known as the FX and FJ series)

Generation:

First Generation

Chassis Codes:

FX (1948-1953), FJ (1953-1956)

👋 Introduction

Significance:

The Holden 48-215, FX, and FJ represent Holden's foundational models, marking Australia's entry into mass-produced automobile manufacturing. This manual provides critical support for maintaining and restoring these historically significant vehicles.

Historical Context:

These models competed against imported vehicles and were instrumental in establishing Holden as a dominant force in the Australian automotive market. They represented a more accessible and robust option for Australian conditions.

Manual Attributes:

Complete OEM Factory Manual, no missing pages, instant PDF download, printable, usable on multiple devices, lifetime usage, hundreds of pages, neatly indexed and organized, detailed photos & diagrams.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Identification, Accessories, Engine & Clutch, Cooling and Oiling, Electrical, Fuel, Transmission, Brakes, Rear Axle, Front Suspension & Steering, Frame, Sheet Metal, Standard Parts, Miscellaneous, Body Parts

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but emphasized as extensive)

Type:

Parts Manual Catalog / Parts Book Catalogue / Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Powertrain:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valves, crankshaft, camshaft, pistons, connecting rods, oil pump, water pump, fuel pump, carburetor, manifold, clutch assembly, pressure plate, clutch disc, flywheel, throw-out bearing

Drivetrain:

Gearbox/Transmission internals (gears, shafts, bearings, synchromesh), propeller shaft, universal joints, rear axle housing, differential assembly, half-shafts

Suspension And Steering:

Front suspension components (kingpins, kingpin bushes, stub axles, wishbones, coil springs, shock absorbers), steering box, steering linkage (tie rods, drag links), steering column, steering wheel

Braking System:

Front and rear brake assemblies, brake drums, brake shoes, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, brake lines, brake pedal, handbrake mechanism

Electrical System:

Ignition system (distributor, coil, spark plugs, wiring), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), charging system (generator/dynamo, regulator, battery), lighting (headlights, taillights, indicators), instruments (speedometer, ammeter, fuel gauge), wiring harnesses

Body And Chassis:

Frame/chassis rails, body panels (fenders, doors, roof, floor pans), sheet metal parts, bumpers, grille, trim, glass, seats, interior trim, dashboard components, hardware (bolts, nuts, clips)

Accessories And Options:

Covers factory-fitted or dealer-supplied accessories such as heaters, radios, different wheel covers, and various trim options available through NASCO (National Automotive Service Company).

Repair And Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for dismantling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling all major vehicle systems and components.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures and guidance for identifying and resolving common faults and issues across various vehicle systems.

Maintenance:

Procedures for routine servicing, lubrication, tune-ups, fluid changes, and component adjustments.

Parts Identification:

Provides numerical and alphabetical indexes of all parts, with corresponding part numbers, facilitating accurate ordering and identification for replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive OEM factory level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes exploded diagrams and high-detail illustrations for precise identification and assembly.

Diagnostic Codes:

No electronic diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) as the vehicles predate modern electronic control units.

Component Illustrations:

Extensive use of highly detailed exploded diagrams and line drawings to illustrate part relationships and assembly sequences.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Windows & Mac versions

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Printability:

Printable (single pages or entire manual)

Zoom Capability:

Zoomable

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Medium:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Displacement:

2170 cc (132.5 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

72.0 mm x 88.0 mm (approximate)

Compression Ratio:

6.8:1 (standard)

Horsepower Net:

Approx. 65 bhp (48 kW) at 3800 rpm

Torque Net:

Approx. 100 lb-ft (135 Nm) at 1600 rpm

Carburetor:

Solex Type CIS (or equivalent Zenith/Stromberg for later FX/FJ) single downdraft carburetor

Fuel Type:

Regular Octane Unleaded Petrol (historically, Leaded Petrol)

Cooling System Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized (thermosiphon on very early models, later models pressurized)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.7 Litres (6 US Quarts)

Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 or 30 (API SG or equivalent for modern use)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

3-Speed Manual Transmission

Gear Ratios:

1st: 2.62:1, 2nd: 1.57:1, 3rd: 1.00:1, Reverse: 3.26:1 (approximate, may vary slightly between FX/FJ)

Fluid Type:

GL-1 SAE 90 Gear Oil (or equivalent for modern use)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, diaphragm spring clutch

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2620 mm (103.1 inches)

Overall Length:

Approx. 4178 mm (164.5 inches)

Overall Width:

Approx. 1760 mm (69.3 inches)

Overall Height:

Approx. 1575 mm (62.0 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1060 kg (2337 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 1510 kg (3330 lbs)

Wheel Size:

15 inch

Tire Size:

6.40-15 (original fitment), modern equivalents 185R15 or similar

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 4.5 inches (114.3 mm)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era:

Designed for pre-modern safety standards; lacks advanced passive or active safety features common today.

Braking System:

Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. No power assistance or ABS.

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering. No power steering.

Seat Belts:

Not fitted as standard from factory; often retrofitted by owners/restorers.

Airbags:

None

Body Construction:

Body-on-frame construction with integrated passenger compartment (initially referred to as 'all-steel body' by Holden).

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Optional factory-fitted or dealer-fitted AM radio (typically single speaker).

Instrumentation:

Basic dashboard with speedometer, ammeter, fuel gauge, oil pressure light (or gauge on some models), and warning lamps.

None:

No driver assistance systems were available or conceived during this era.

None:

No electronic connectivity features available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months

Grease Points:

Check and lubricate all grease points (suspension, steering, driveshaft) every 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or monthly.

Tune Up:

Recommended every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or annually, including ignition timing, spark plugs, carburetor adjustment, and valve clearances.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 20W-50 or SAE 30

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-1 SAE 90 Gear Oil

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (original likely DOT 3, but DOT 4 is often used for modern replacements)

Coolant Type:

Water-based coolant with anti-corrosion additive. Modern equivalent: Ethylene Glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Engine Wear:

Core plug corrosion, worn camshaft lobes, oil leaks from seals and gaskets due to age and material degradation.

Cooling System:

Radiator core degradation, thermostat sticking, water pump seal leaks, potential for core plug failure.

Electrical System:

Deterioration of wiring insulation, generator/dynamo output issues, voltage regulator failure, battery charging problems.

Bodywork:

Rust and corrosion, particularly in floor pans, sills, wheel arches, and door bottoms. Chassis frame integrity can also be compromised.

Suspension And Steering:

Wear in kingpins, kingpin bushes, tie rod ends, and steering box backlash.

📚 Vehicle History

Holden Founding:

Holden was established in 1856 as a saddlery business, diversifying into automotive coachbuilding in the early 20th century. The 48-215 marked its transition to manufacturing complete automobiles.

48-215:

Launched in 1948, it was Australia's first mass-produced car. Known for its robust construction and suitability for Australian roads.

Fx:

The 48-215 was officially designated as the 'FX' series from 1948 to 1953. It featured several running updates.

Fj:

Introduced in 1953, the FJ was an update to the FX, featuring styling cues influenced by Chevrolet models of the era, particularly the 'bullet nose' grille. Offered in sedan, utility, and coupe utility variants.

Production Period:

FX: 1948-1953; FJ: 1953-1956

Manufacturing Location:

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Sales Figures:

Over 170,000 FX and FJ models were produced across all body styles.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Significance:

The Holden 48-215, FX, and FJ are celebrated as crucial milestones in Australian industrial history, being the first locally manufactured mass-market automobiles. They are highly regarded by automotive historians and collectors.

Collectible Status:

Highly collectible classic cars, with strong club support and a dedicated enthusiast base.