Generations Covered:
HK, HT, HG, HQ, HJ, HX, HZ, VZ
Engine Codes:
Covered for HK, HT, HG, HQ, HJ, HX, HZ (including V8 variants like 308, 350, 253, etc.)
Paint Codes:
Covered for HK, HT, HG, HQ (specific sections), general paint colour codes A-L
Trimatic Id Plate Codes:
Included
Identification Sections:
Engine / Body / Chassis Numbers, Holden Decoder, Identifying a Sandman
Positioning:
The Holden Monaro was positioned as Holden's flagship coupe, a performance-oriented and stylish vehicle that captured the automotive imagination of Australia.
Performance Icon:
The Monaro was Holden's answer to the desire for a stylish, powerful Australian-made coupe, becoming synonymous with performance and muscle car culture.
Competitors:
Competed against other locally manufactured performance cars and offered a more stylish alternative to larger sedans, often drawing comparisons to American muscle cars of the era.
Heritage:
Iconic Australian muscle car with a strong enthusiast following.
Restoration Focus:
The manual caters to the significant demand for restoring these classic vehicles, providing crucial technical and historical data.
Primary Coverage:
Holden Monaro (HK to VZ)
Secondary Coverage:
Holden Belmont, Kingswood, Premier (HQ-WB era), Holden 1 Tonner (HQ-WB prefix)
Related Holden Models:
Holden Belmont, Kingswood and Premier, Holden Kingswood, Holden 1 Tonner Prefixes HQ-WB
Estimated Page Count:
Likely extensive, given the breadth of models and technical data. No exact number provided, but implies comprehensive coverage.
Type:
Restoration and Technical Manual (PDF Download)
Powertrain:
Engine specifications, M22 Gearbox, Trimatic gearbox codes, V8 history
Chassis And Body:
Body, Chassis numbers, Interchangeable parts (HK/HT/HG), Sandman identification
Electrical:
Implied through general technical specifications and troubleshooting potential.
Paint And Trim:
Paint codes, Colour codes
Identification And Decoding:
VIN decoder, Holden decoder, Engine/Body/Chassis numbers
Technical Data Specifics:
HQ Technical Specifications, HQ Specifications, HT Monaro Paint & Engine Codes, Paint Colour Codes, Colour Codes A-L, Model Launch Dates & Prices.
Powertrain Support:
M22 Gearbox, Short History of the V8, Trimatic ID Plate Codes, HQ-WB Engine Prefixes.
Restoration Support:
Parts interchangeability, model history, identification guides
Technical Information:
Specifications, Paint codes, Engine prefixes, Model launch dates
Valuation And Registry:
Monaro Price Guide, Monaro Register
Identification Assistance:
Engine / Body / Chassis Numbers, Holden Decoder, VIN Decoder, Identifying a Sandman, Trimatic ID Plate Codes.
Depth:
Comprehensive for restoration and identification purposes, covering historical data, technical specifications, and identification details. Likely includes detailed part identification and potential interchangeability for restoration projects.
Restoration Parts Focus:
HK / HT / HG Interchangeable Parts section highlights the manual's utility for restoration by identifying compatible components across these early generations.
Engine Range:
From the HK era's 161 cubic inch inline-six to the VZ CV8-Z's 5.7L LS1 V8. The manual covers various six-cylinder and V8 engines throughout the Monaro lineage.
Notable Engines:
253ci (4.1L), 308ci (5.0L), 350ci (5.7L) V8 engines, as well as Holden's robust inline-sixes.
Type:
Carbureted for earlier models (e.g., Stromberg, Holley) through to Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for the VZ generation.
Gearbox Options:
Manual transmissions (e.g., M20, M21, M22) and automatic transmissions (e.g., Trimatic).
Gearbox Options:
High-performance manual gearboxes like the M22 Rockcrusher were optional on certain models. Performance automatic transmissions were also available.
Documentation:
Specific details on the M22 Gearbox and Trimatic ID plate codes are provided.
Body Styles:
Primarily 2-door coupe, with some generations (like HQ) also having sedan variants of the Monaro-based models.
Seating:
Typically 4-seater configuration, with a focus on driver and front passenger comfort and sportiness.
Trunk Space:
Adequate for its era, designed to accommodate luggage for touring.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by generation and engine, typically ranging from approximately 1300kg to 1700kg.
Historical Context:
Safety standards and ratings were significantly different during the production run of the earlier Monaro models (HK-HZ). The VZ Monaro would have adhered to more modern safety regulations.
Brakes:
Disc brakes on front wheels were common, with rear drums. Higher performance models often featured optional front disc brake upgrades.
Restraints:
Lap-sash seatbelts were standard on front seats in later models, with lap belts for rear passengers on earlier models. Safety glass was also incorporated.
Era Dependent:
Early Monaros featured basic AM/FM radios, often with cassette players in later models. The VZ Monaro offered more contemporary infotainment systems.
Features:
Limited to basic safety features like power steering (on some models) and power assisted brakes. ABS and airbags were not available on the classic models.
Capabilities:
Non-existent on classic models; the VZ would have offered basic audio connectivity.
Typical Schedule:
Pre-modern intervals, generally requiring oil changes every 5,000-10,000 km, with more comprehensive services at 20,000-40,000 km. Specific intervals would be detailed within the manual for each model.
Engine Oil:
Viscosities would vary depending on engine, e.g., 20W-50 or 10W-40 for V8s, and SAE 30 for inline-sixes. Modern oils meeting API classifications would be recommended for restoration.
Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III for Trimatic; Gear oil (e.g., GL-4) for manual transmissions. Specifics for M22 would be crucial.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common in Australian cars of this era, particularly in lower body sections, wheel arches, and boot floors. Manual may offer repair guidance.
Engine Wear:
Piston ring wear, bearing wear, and oil leaks are common on high-mileage, older engines. Valve stem seals are also a common culprit for smoking.
Suspension And Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are typical wear items, affecting handling and ride comfort.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded wiring, faulty switches, and aging electrical components can lead to intermittent issues in older vehicles.
Engine Performance Degradation:
Over time, carburetion can become inconsistent, ignition systems degrade, and internal engine wear can affect power output. The manual's technical data would be essential for diagnosing and rectifying these.
Holden Legacy:
The Monaro is a cornerstone of Holden's performance heritage, representing a golden era of Australian automotive manufacturing and motorsport success.
Generations:
HK (1968-1970), HT (1970-1971), HG (1971), HQ (1971-1974), HJ (1974-1976), HX (1976-1977), HZ (1977-1980), VZ (2001-2005, revived model based on GM platform).
Generations Timeline:
1st Generation 1968-1971 (HK, HT, HG), 2nd Generation 1971-1977 (HQ, HJ, HX, HZ), 3rd Generation 2001-2005 (VZ Monaro CV8-Z).
Key Production Periods:
Original run: 1968-1980. Revival: 2001-2005.
Production Locations:
Australia (primarily Elizabeth, South Australia for local models), Germany (for VZ based on Opel platform).
Motorsport:
The Monaro chassis formed the basis for successful Holden Dealer Team (HDT) race cars and had a significant presence in Australian touring car racing.
V8 Development:
The manual includes a 'Short History of the V8', detailing the evolution and impact of V8 engines within the Monaro range.
