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

1972-1979 / Coupe / Sedan / Hatchback / Australia

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.

The rubber valve stem seals harden and crack with age. Oil seeps past the valve stems into the combustion chambers.

Replace the valve stem seals.

Can be done with the head in situ using compressed air to hold the valves up.

Budget $50-100 for a seal kit.

Cost mentioned in fix

Budget $50-100 for a

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

Oil pressure drops below 25 psi at idle when hot. Knocking from the bottom end under load.

Rough idle, uneven running, flat spots, poor throttle response. The engine feels rough and unbalanced.

Temperature gauge climbs in traffic or under sustained load. May push coolant out the overflow. Engine pings (detonation) under acceleration.

Hesitation off idle (the classic "Q-jet bog"), flooding, hard starting when hot, black smoke, fuel smell.

Ticking or clattering from the top of the engine. May vary with RPM.

Oil on the garage floor, oil smell, oil coating on the underside of the engine.