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MOTRS

Torana (LJ-LX) / GTR / SLR / A9X

1972-1979 / Coupe / Sedan / Hatchback / Australia

All Torana (LJ-LX) / GTR / SLR / A9X problems All workshop issues
Common Suspension

Front Strut Mount Failure (LH/LX)

Symptoms

Clunking over bumps, particularly at the front. Steering feels vague. Noise when turning the steering wheel at low speed.

Cause

The LH and LX use MacPherson strut front suspension with rubber top mounts. These mounts deteriorate with age and loading, allowing the strut to move within the mount.

Fix

Replace the strut top mounts ($50-100 per side).

This is a straightforward job, the strut assembly must be removed and the spring compressed to access the top mount.

Replace the strut bearings at the same time.

Cost mentioned in fix
$50-100 per side

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// More Torana (LJ-LX) / GTR / SLR / A9X problems

Other known issues

Common Suspension

Worn Rear Trailing Arm Bushings

Clunking from the rear under acceleration and braking. Rear axle wanders. The car feels loose and imprecise through corners.
Common Suspension

Rear Coil Spring Sag

The rear of the car sits lower than it should. May bottom out over bumps. Uneven stance when viewed from the side.
Common Engine, Holden Six (173ci / 202ci)

Worn Bearings and Low Oil Pressure

Oil pressure drops below 25 psi at idle when hot. Knocking from the bottom end under load.
Common Engine, Holden Six (173ci / 202ci)

Triple Carburettor Synchronisation (XU-1)

Rough idle, uneven running, flat spots, poor throttle response. The engine feels rough and unbalanced.
Minor Engine, Holden Six (173ci / 202ci)

Valve Stem Seal Deterioration

Blue smoke on startup that clears within a minute. May also smoke briefly on deceleration.
Critical Engine, Holden V8 (253ci / 308ci)

Overheating in the Compact Engine Bay

Temperature gauge climbs in traffic or under sustained load. May push coolant out the overflow. Engine pings (detonation) under acceleration.
View all 19 Torana (LJ-LX) / GTR / SLR / A9X problems