🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Holden

Model:

HQ Statesman

Trim Level:

Deville

Variant:

Deville / Custom (Export)

Chassis Code:

HQ

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Full-size luxury/executive sedan

Target Audience:

Affluent buyers seeking comfort, space, and prestige; ideal for restoration enthusiasts and mechanics specializing in classic Holdens.

Competitors:

Ford Fairlane/LTD, Chrysler Valiant VIP/Charger variants (in the Australian market).

Luxury Appointments:

Extended wheelbase, plush interior trim, improved sound deadening, often power steering and air conditioning as standard or optional.

Engine Options:

Powerful V8 engine options catering to performance and prestige.

Manual Value:

$150 value in book form if obtainable; comprehensive digital resource for enthusiasts and restorers.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Assembly and Factory Parts Guide / Parts Manual / Buyers Guide / History

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Estimated Page Count:

Varies (Full Parts Manual likely extensive, estimated 500+ pages when printed)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

253, 308, 350 cubic inch (4.2L, 5.0L, 5.7L) Holden V8 engines

Drivetrain:

Transmission (likely 3-speed Trimatic auto, 4-speed M20/M21 manual), Drivetrain components (driveshaft, rear axle, differentials)

Chassis Suspension:

Front suspension (independent, coil springs), Rear suspension (live axle, leaf springs), Steering system, Braking system (front discs, rear drums typical for the era)

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, Ignition system, Lighting, Starting and charging system, Accessories

Body:

Body panels, Doors, Glass, Trim, Bumpers, Interior components, Exterior trim, Chassis components

Assembly Procedures:

Detailed breakdown of parts assembly for various vehicle systems and body components.

Parts Identification:

Comprehensive part numbers, diagrams, and descriptions for factory replacement parts.

Identification Guide:

Information on VIN decoding, engine codes, and other identification markers.

Troubleshooting:

Likely includes diagnostic information and common issues related to the HQ series, especially for the Statesman models and specified engines.

Depth Of Coverage:

Factory-level detail for parts and assembly, suitable for restoration, mechanical repair, and parts sourcing. Includes specific part numbers and diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, enabling quick location of specific part numbers or descriptions.

Print Readability:

Designed for clear viewing and printing, replicating original manual quality.

Binding For Digital:

N/A (Digital download)

Paper For Digital:

N/A (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement 253:

253 cu in (4.2 L)

Displacement 308:

308 cu in (5.0 L)

Displacement 350:

350 cu in (5.7 L) (Chevrolet Small-Block, typically with specific Holden adaptations)

Horsepower 253:

Approx. 185 bhp (138 kW) @ 4400 rpm (net)

Torque 253:

Approx. 300 lb-ft (407 Nm) @ 2800 rpm (net)

Horsepower 308:

Approx. 230 bhp (172 kW) @ 4600 rpm (net)

Torque 308:

Approx. 324 lb-ft (439 Nm) @ 3000 rpm (net)

Horsepower 350:

Approx. 240-255 bhp (179-190 kW) @ 4800 rpm (net) (depending on specific tune/carburetion)

Torque 350:

Approx. 340-350 lb-ft (461-475 Nm) @ 3200 rpm (net)

Carburetion:

Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor typical for most V8s; some base models might have 2-barrel. 350 often fitted with Holley or a specific Rochester.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (as the HQ series transitioned to unleaded fuel later in its production)

Engine Code Prefix 308:

LH7 (example for 308 V8)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Deville:

3-speed automatic (Trimatic) likely standard on Deville. 4-speed manual (Muncie/Australian equivalents) available.

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed manual transmission (M20, M21 'wide ratio' and 'close ratio' options).

Transmission Cooling:

Automatic transmissions typically feature transmission fluid coolers, often integrated with the radiator.

Trimatic Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent GM specification for automatic transmission fluid) - check specific manual for exact OE spec.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 114 inches (2896 mm) - longer than the standard Kingswood/Belmont sedan.

Length:

Approx. 197 inches (5004 mm)

Width:

Approx. 74 inches (1880 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55 inches (1397 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3500-3800 lbs (1588-1724 kg) depending on engine and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

GVM ratings typically in the range of 4500-4800 lbs (2041-2177 kg).

Wheel Size Standard:

14-inch steel wheels typically, with optional hubcaps or alloy wheels.

Tire Size Standard:

Typically 185/80R14 or 195/70R14, depending on engine and trim.

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 105 mm (common for Holden HQ-WB).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No modern crash test data available; designed to 1970s Australian safety standards. Lacked many modern safety features like airbags.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assistance typically standard on Deville models.

Steering:

Power steering was a common option on Deville models, enhancing maneuverability.

Seat Belts:

Lap-sash seatbelts were standard for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants. Shoulder belts often optional or fitted later.

Body Structure:

Body-on-frame construction with a steel unibody structure. Safety features were rudimentary by modern standards.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with an optional 8-track player. Speaker configuration typically 2 front, 2 rear. Cassette players became available later in the HQ series run or as aftermarket upgrades.

Cruise Control:

Not a common factory feature in the early 1970s for this model, likely a rare dealer option or aftermarket fitment.

Vintage Features:

Focus on mechanical and analogue systems. No modern digital connectivity or driver assistance features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months for that era. Synthetic oils and modern filters allow longer intervals.

Tune Up Interval:

Points, condenser, spark plugs usually every 6,000-12,000 miles (10,000-20,000 km). Electronic ignition conversions were popular upgrades.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Varies by engine, typically 5-6 quarts (4.7-5.7 L) with filter change. Recommended oil viscosity: 20W-50 or 10W-30 depending on climate and type of oil (mineral vs. synthetic).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Capacity approx. 14-16 quarts (13.2-15.1 L). Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Check reservoir for exact specification and level regularly.

Rust Prone Areas:

Wheel arches, sills, floor pans, door bottoms, and boot floor are susceptible to rust due to age and Australian climate conditions.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring looms, Lucas components (if fitted in some export markets), and deteriorating connectors can lead to intermittent electrical faults.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common wear items that can affect ride quality and handling.

Carburetor Issues:

Rochester Quadrajets can be prone to vacuum leaks or float issues if not properly maintained or rebuilt.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Holden (Australian subsidiary of General Motors)

Predecessor:

HG Holden Belmont, Kingswood, Premier sedan.

Successor:

HX, HZ Statesman.

Production Years:

1971-1974

Manufacturing Location:

Australia (Fishermans Bend, Melbourne; Pagewood, Sydney).

Australian Icon:

The HQ series, including the Statesman, is considered one of Holden's most successful and iconic models, defining Australian luxury motoring for its era.

Export Models:

Included 'HQ ISUZU DEVILLE EXPORT' as noted in the product description, suggesting variants built for specific overseas markets, potentially with Isuzu engines or specifications. This is a key piece of information for collectors and restorers of export models.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Impact:

The HQ series was widely lauded upon release for its modern styling, improved engineering, and the Statesman Deville represented the pinnacle of Australian automotive luxury and design at the time.