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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 Engine, Holden Six (173ci / 202ci)

Worn Bearings and Low Oil Pressure

Symptoms

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

Cause

The main and big-end bearings wear over 50+ years. The oil pump also wears, reducing delivery pressure. Infrequent oil changes accelerate bearing wear.

Fix

Bottom-end rebuild, new bearings, check and potentially regrind the crank.

Budget $1,500-2,500 at a machine shop.

The Holden six is one of the simplest engines in the world to rebuild, it's a straightforward, honest motor that rewards basic maintenance.

Cost mentioned in fix
Budget $1,500-2,500

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

Other known issues

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.
Common Engine, Holden V8 (253ci / 308ci)

Rochester Quadrajet Carburettor Problems

Hesitation off idle (the classic "Q-jet bog"), flooding, hard starting when hot, black smoke, fuel smell.
Common Engine, Holden V8 (253ci / 308ci)

Valve Train Noise (308 V8)

Ticking or clattering from the top of the engine. May vary with RPM.
Common Engine, Holden V8 (253ci / 308ci)

Oil Leaks

Oil on the garage floor, oil smell, oil coating on the underside of the engine.
View all 19 Torana (LJ-LX) / GTR / SLR / A9X problems