SECTION 0B - LUBRICATION AND SERVICE
CAUTION:
This vehicle will be equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). A SRS will consist of either
seat belt pre-tensioners and a driver's air bag, seat belt pre-tensioners and a driver's and front
passenger's air bags or seat belt pre-tensioners, driver’s and front passen ger’s air bag and lef t and right
hand side air bags. Refer to SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, Section 12M Supplemental Restraint System before
performing any service operation on, or around any SRS components, the steering mechanism or wiring.
Failure to follow the SAFETY PRECAUTIONS could result in SRS deployment, resulting in possible
personal injury or unnecessary SRS system repairs.
CAUTION:
This vehicle may be equipped with LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). In the interests of safety, the LPG fuel
system should be isolated by turning 'OFF' the manual service valve and then draining the LPG service
lines, before any service work is carried out on the vehicle. Refer to the LPG leaflet included with the
Owner's Handbook for details or the appropriate Section of this Service Information CD for more specific
servicing information.
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
This Section provides details of the lubricants recom mended for VT Series II Models. Also included in this Section
are instructions on the time or distance intervals at which services should be carried out.
CAPACITIES CHART
LITRES
CAPACITIES (APPROXIMATE) 3.8 Litre V6 3.8 Litre V6
Supercharged 5.7 Litre GEN III
V8
Engine Oil Pan Refill (Less oil filter) 4.5 4.5 4.7
Add for Oil Filter 0.3 0.3 0.3
Supercharger - 0.12 -
Manual Transmission 2.0 NA 4.4
Automatic Transmission - Dry total 7.9 7.9 10.6
- Service refill 4.8 4.8 5
Cooling System 12 12 12
- Coolant Concentrate HN2043 at 50% HN2043 at 50% GM6277M at 50%
Brake Hydraulic System 0.616 0.616 0.616
Final Drive 1.7 1.7 1.7
Power Steering 0.70 0.70 0.80
Techline
Techline
Techline
Techline
Techline
2. ENGINE LUBRI CATION AND SERVICE
2.1 ENGINE OIL VISCOSITY AND CLASSIFICATION RECOMMENDATIONS
The grade of crankcase oil should be selected to give the best performance under the climatic and driving
conditions in the territory in which the vehicle is operated. When the crankcase is drained and refilled, the
crank case oil should be s elected, not on the basis of the existing tem perature at the tim e of the c hange, but on the
ambient temperature range anticipated for the period during which the oil will be used.
Excluding VT Series Models with LPG, use 10W/30 SJ GF2 engine oil for general use and high ambient
temperatures in both 3.8 litre V6 and 5.7 litre GEN III V8 engines. If this oil is unavailable, use SG, SH or SJ engine
oil with a viscosity of 20W/50 or 15W/40.
On vehicles fitted with 3.8 litre V6 engines and LPG, engine oil to Holden Specification HN2314 must be used. At
time of publication, products approved to this specification are: BP Vanellus Multigrade C3 15W/40 SH/CG4, Mobil
Delvac MX 15W/40 SH/CG4 and Mobil Super LPG oil 15W/40 SJ/CE4.
NOTE:
1. Non-detergent and low quality oils are specifically not recommended.
2. Only low phosphorous engine oils m ust be used. Jus t as lead can contam inate the ceram ic m onolith ins ide the
catalytic converter, so can phosphorous. Most leading brands of engine oil now limit phosphorus levels to “safe”
limits.
3. ‘Break-in’ oils, ‘tune-up’ compounds, ‘friction reducing’ compounds and other additives should not be used
unless recommended by Holden.
Their use will only increase operating costs and may contaminate the ceramic monolith inside the catalytic
converter, rendering it useless.
Techline
2.2 CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL
CHECK
1. Ensure engine is at normal operating
temperature (idle for 10 minutes or equivalent).
2. Park vehicle on level surface (as this will affect
the accuracy indicated on dipstick:- this is a
critical requirement).
3. Do not check oil level for at least 10 minutes
after engine shut down to allow oil to drain back
into the oil pan.
4. Remove dipstick and wipe clean.
5. Reinstall dipstick, ensuring that it is fully
seated. Slowly rem ove to avoid smearing, then
hold horizontally or with the lower end slightly
down, to avoid oil running along dipstick.
NOTE: Reinstall V6 engine dipstick with the
FULL/ADD marks facing towards centre line of
engine. This aspect is very important due to the
angle that the dipstick enters the oil in the oil pan.
6. Observe the oil level where it passes over the
centre line of the dipstick.
If the engine oil level is below the ADD mark on
the dipstick, using the specified engine oil (refer
2.1 ENGINE OIL VISCOSITY AND
CLASSIFICATION in this Section), top up oil
level until the oil reaches the full mark;
FULL mark on V6 engines.
Line after the hatched section on GEN III V8
engines.
7. When topping up the engine oil, allow
approximately 10 minutes for the oil added to
fully drain into the oil pan.
T20B003
Figure 0B-1 V6 and V6 Supercharged engine oil dipstick
T20B002
Figure 0B-2 GEN III V8 engine oil dipstick
2.3 ENGINE OIL - CHANGE
NOTE: Quicker and more complete draining will
occur if the engine oil is at operating temperature.
However, care must be taken to avoid scalding
from the hot oil.
NOTE: While all oil pans are aluminium, they are
fitted with steel thread inserts to increase durability
of the thread and to avoid thread tearing when the
drain plug is removed from a hot engine.
1. Raise the engine hood and remove the oil fill
cap.
2. Raise the vehicle front and support with safety
stands. Refer to Section 0A GENERAL
INFORMATION in this Service Information CD.
3. On vehicles with GEN III V8 engines, remove
the four oil pan under-tray securing bolts (2)
and remove under-tray (1).
4. Clean any foreign material from around the oil
pan drain plug.
5. Place an oil drain tray beneath the engine.
6. Using a suitable wrench r emove the drain plug,
taking car e to avoid scalding with the hot waste
oil.
Figure 0B-3 GEN III V8 oil pan under-tray
7. When the oil has drained sufficiently, reinstall
the drain plug, after ins pecting and c leaning the
threads. The drain plug O-ring seal may be re-
used if not cut or damaged. Tighten the drain
plug to the correct torque specification.
8. On vehicles with GEN III V8 engines, reinstall
the oil pan under-tray and tighten securing bolts
to the correct torque specification.
V6 ENGINE OIL PAN DRAIN PLUG
TORQUE SPECIFICATION 30 - 60 Nm
GEN III V8 ENGINE OIL PAN DRAIN
PLUG TORQUE SPECIFICATION 25 Nm
OIL PAN UNDER-TRAY SECURING
BOLT TORQUE SPECIFICATION 30 – 35 Nm
9. Lower the vehicle and fill the crankcase with the
specified engine oil, refer 2.1 ENGINE OIL
VISCOSITY AND CLASSIFICATION
RECOMMENDATIONS in this Section.
10. Start the engine and check for oil leaks.
Figure 0B-4 V6 Engine oil pan drain plug
Figure 0B-5 GEN III V8 engine oil pan drain plug
2.4 ENGINE OIL FILTER
The full-flow oil filter, filters all the engine oil
delivered by the oil pump. Accordingly, the oil filter
should be replaced at the tim e or distanc e intervals
specified in 9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in
this Section (or the VT Owner’s Handbook) or
whenever the engine oil is contam inated by foreign
material and/or liquids.
Under prolonged dusty conditions, it is
recommended that the oil filter be replaced more
often.
NOTE: Whenever the oil filter is replaced, an
additional quantity of the recommended engine oil
must be added to fill the dry filter. Refer to the
CAPACITIES CHART in this Section.
REPLACE
1. Raise the vehicle front and support with safety
stands. Refer to Section 0A GENERAL
INFORMATION of this Service Information CD.
2. On vehicles with GEN III V8 engines, remove
the four oil pan under-tray securing bolts (2)
and remove under-tray (1).
Figure 0B-6 GEN III V8 oil pan under-tray
3. Place an oil drain tray beneath the engine and
remove the oil filter (1), using a commercially
available tool, taking care to avoid being
scalded with the hot waste oil.
4. After checking that the filter seal has not
adhered to the oil pan flange, inspect the oil
filter sealing surface for scratches or other
damage and c heck the oil filter adaptor threads
for damage.
NOTE: If necessary, refer to
Section 6A1-1 – ENGINE MECHANICAL – V6
ENGINE of this Service Information CD for
information on how to remove and install the oil
filter adaptor.
5. Smear some new engine oil onto the new filter
seal, then install filter assembly to engine.
6. V6 engine; screw filter into place until the seal
contacts the mating surface of the adaptor,
then tighten a further 2/3 of a turn.
GEN III V8 engine; Tighten oil filter to the
correct torque specification.
GEN III V8 ENGINE OIL FILTER
TORQUE SPECIFICATION 30 Nm
7. Clean any excess oil of filter and adaptor.
8. On vehicles with GEN III V8 engines, reinstall
the oil pan under-tray and tighten securing bolts
to the correct torque specification.
OIL PAN UNDER-TRAY SECURING
BOLT TORQUE SPECIFICATION 30 – 35 Nm
9. Lower the vehicle and check the oil level. Start
engine and check for leaks. Repair as
necessary.
NOTE: The oil level needs to be rechecked and oil
added as necessary, after running the engine, to
compensate for oil used to refill the oil filter. Refer
to 2.2 CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL in this
Section for the recommended checking procedure
Figure 0B-7 V6 engine oil filter
Figure 0B-8 GEN III V8 engine oil filter
2.5 ENGINE VENTILATION SYSTEM
All VT Series Model engine ventilation systems,
use a P.C.V. valve and utilise engine vacuum to
draw blow-by gasses into the combustion
chambers where they are recycled through the
combustion process.
The location of the P.C.V. valve on a V6 engine is
in the inlet manifold, V6 super char ged engine in the
LH rear of the s upercharger as sem bly, and GEN III
engine it is externally mounted between the valve
cover and the throttle body.
For service instructions covering the testing, and
the removal and reinstallation procedures of the
P.C.V. valve, depending on the engine variant,
refer to Section 6E1 EMISSION CONTROL - V6
ENGINE (V6 and V6 supercharged engines) or
Section 6E3 EMISSION CONTROL – GEN III V8
ENGINE (GEN III V8 engine) of this Service
Information CD.
Figure 0B-9 V6 engine P.C.V. valve
Figure 0B-10 V6 supercharged engine P.C.V. valve
Figure 0B-11 GEN III V8 engine P.C.V. valve
2.6 FUEL FILTER
The fuel filter is located on the pressure side of the high pressure fuel pum p and is attached to the f loor pan of the
vehicle, behind the final drive assembly.
Refer to Fig. 0B-12 for filter location.
The fuel filter m us t be replaced at the tim e or dis tanc e intervals s pec if ied in 9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this
Section or in the VT Series Owner’s Handbook.
For ser vice ins tr uc tions c over ing the removal and ins tallation of the fuel f ilter, depending on the engine var iant, refer
to Section 6C1 POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT - V6 ENGINE or Section 6C3 POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT -
GEN III V8 ENGINE of this Service Information CD.
Figure 0B-12
2.7 AIR CLEANER ELEMENT
The air c leaner elem ent m ay be partially cleaned of
dust by lightly tapping the element. It should not be
washed or oiled. The time or distance intervals at
which the element requires servicing depend on
vehicle operating conditions. Under dusty
conditions, the element should be checked for
restriction more often than for normal city
operation. Refer 9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
in this Section for additional information on when
the filter should be serviced
Fig. 0B-13 shows the location of the element for a
typical air cleaner assembly.
For service instructions covering the removal and
installation of the air cleaner element, dependent
on the engine type, refer to Section 6C1
POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT - V6 ENGINE or
Section 6C3 POWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT -
GEN III V8 ENGINE of this Service Information CD Figure 0B-13
2.8 EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL CANISTER
The Evaporative Emis sion Control ( EEC) canis ter is attac hed to the underbody on all VT Series Models, regardles s
of the engine configuration.
The canister should be serviced at the time or distance intervals specified in 9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in
this Section or in the VT Series Owner’s Handbook.
For service instructions covering the testing, and the rem oval and reinstallation of the EEC canister, depending on
the engine variant, refer to Section 6E1 EMISSION CONTROL - V6 ENGINE or Section 6E3 EMISSION
CONTROL - GEN III V8 ENGINE of this Service Information CD.
Figure 0B-14
2.9 COOLING SYSTEM
V6 AND V6 SUPERCHARGED ENGINE
The cooling system is filled initially with a coolant
mixture comprising 50% water and 50% inhibited
ethylene Glycol to Holden Specification HN 2043.
CAUTION: Do not remove the radiator cap
when the engine and radiator are hot. Scalding
fluid and steam can be blown out under
pressure if the cap is removed.
The cooling system is designed to use formulated
coolant (a mixture of inhibited ethylene glycol and
water), rather than plain water. The coolant solution
must be used year round.
Inhibited ethylene glycol conforming to Holden
Specification HN 2043 is named ‘New Formula
Long Life All Seasons Coolant’, and is available in
the following quantities:
1 Litre, P/N 92140054*
5 Litre, P/N 92140057*
20 Litre, P/N 92140055*
* Always check with the latest Holden spare parts
information for the correct part number before
ordering parts.
NOTE: Do not mix different types of anti-freeze or
corros ion inhibitors as they may be inc ompatible. If
a different type has been used in the cooling
system, flush the system with clean water.
The water used for mixing with inhibited glycol
concentrate must be of low dissolved salt content,
preferably tank water or demineralised water.
Check
Turn the coolant dipstick cap one eighth of a turn
anti-clockwise and slowly pull out the dipstick.
There are two triangles on the dipstick repres enting
the Minimum ▲ and Maximum ▼ levels.
When the coolant is cold, the coolant level should
be at or above the Minim um ▲ triangle m ark on the
dipstick. After the engine has been driven and the
engine is at the normal operating temperature, the
level should be somewhere between the Minimum
▲ and Maximum ▼ triangles.
If the coolant level is correct, replace the dipstick
and turn the cap one eighth of a turn clockwise to
secure.
If the coolant level is low, add enough of a pre-
mixed coolant solution of water and a good quality
inhibited ethylene glycol (meeting Holden
specification HN 2043) to bring the level up to the
proper mark.
When the level is correct, replace the dipstick and
turn the cap one eighth of a turn clockwise to
secure.
It is of the utmost importance to maintain the
correct concentration level of glycol in the cooling
system.
To ensure the specified glycol concentration is
maintained in the engine coolant, the coolant
concentration must be checked at the time or
distance intervals outlined in 9.2 MAINTENANCE
SCHELDULE in this Section or in the VT Series
Owner’s Handbook.
Check coolant concentration as outlined in Section
6B1-1 ENGINE COOLING - V6 ENGINE or 6B1-2
ENGINE COOLING - V6 SUPERCHARGED of this
Service Information CD.
It is recommended that the coolant be drained, the
system flushed and refilled with clean water and
radiator coolant at the time or dis tance intervals set
out in 9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this
Section or the VT Series Owner’s Handbook.
T20B013
Figure 0B-15
Aluminium radiators should be protected at all
times by a coolant that is specifically recommended
for use with aluminium. Aluminium radiators may
be destroyed by the caustic solutions found in
some cleaners or the chemicals used in some
antifreeze’s and inhibitors.
For cooling system filling instructions, refer to
Section 6B1-1 ENGINE COOLING - V6 ENGINE
or 6B1-2 ENGINE COOLING - V6
SUPERCHARGED of this Service Information CD.
GEN III V8 ENGINE
CAUTION: Do not remove coolant surge tank
cap when the engine and radiator are hot.
Scalding fluid and steam can be blown out
under pressure if the cap is removed.
The cooling system is designed to use a specific
coolant (a mixture of DEX-COOL® coolant to GM
Specification 6277M coolant additive and water),
rather than plain water.
The use of this orange coloured coolant additive
also raises the boiling point and increases the
cooling system efficiency. For this reason, it is of
the utmost importance that the correct
concentration level of DEX-COOL® is maintained in
the cooling system.
Addition of plain water into the cooling system
when 'topping-up' may dilute the coolant m ixture to
a point where the specific properties of DEX-
COOL® become ineffective.
The coolant should comprise of a mixture 50%
DEX-COOL® (GM Specification 6277M) with 50%
clean, good quality water.
NOTE: Do not mix different types of antifreeze or
corros ion inhibitors as they m ay be incompatible. If
a different type has been used in the cooling
system, flush the system with clean water, refer to
Section 6B3 ENGINE COOLING - GEN III V8
ENGINE of this Service Information CD.
The water used f or m ixing with DEX- COOL coolant
must be of low dissolved salt content, preferably
tank water or demineralised water.
Check
The coolant level can be externally checked at the
coolant surge tank. With the engine cold, the
coolant level should be at the FULL CO LD m ar k on
the front of the coolant surge tank.
Pre-mixed coolant (50% DEX-COOL® to GM
Specification 6277M with 50% clean, good quality
water) may be added as necessary to bring the
level shown on the coolant surge tank but only
when the engine is cold.
It is of the utmost importance to maintain the
correct concentration level of glycol in the cooling
system.
To ensure the specified glycol concentration is
maintained in the engine coolant, the coolant
concentration must be checked at the time or
distance intervals outlined in 9.2 MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE in this Section or in the VT Series
Owner’s Handbook.
Check coolant concentration as outlined in Section
6B3 ENGINE COOLING - GEN III V8 ENGINE of
this Service Information CD.
It is recommended that the coolant be drained, the
system flushed and refilled with clean water and
radiator coolant at the time or dis tance intervals set
out in 9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this
Section or the VT Series Owner’s Handbook.
Figure 0B-16
Aluminium radiators should be protected at all
times by a coolant that is specifically recommended
for use with aluminium. Aluminium radiators may
be destroyed by the caustic solutions found in
some cleaners or the chemicals used in some
antifreeze’s and inhibitors.
For cooling system filling instructions, refer to
Section 6B3 ENGINE COOLING – GEN III V8
ENGINE of this Service Information CD.
3. MANUAL TRANSMI SSION LUBRICATION AND SERVICE
3.1 RECOMMENDED LUBRICANT
GETRAG 5 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION (V6)
The recom m ended lubricant for the Getrag, Type 260 5 speed manual transm iss ion (Production Option M35) in VT
Series Models is Castrol VMX 80W oil (to Holden specification HN1855).
TREMEC 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION (GEN III V8)
The recommended lubricant for the Tremec, Type T56, 6 speed manual transmission (production option MM6) is
fluid qualified to Dexron® III (to Holden specification HN2126).
3.2 CHECKING TRANSMISSION LUBRICANT LEVEL
The lubricant level is to be checked at the time or
distance intervals detailed in 9.2 MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE in this Section or in the VT Series
Owners Handbook.
GETRAG 5 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION (V6)
NOTE: Ensure the vehicle is on level ground and
that the transmission is cold.
1. Remove the filler plug (1) using a 17mm ring
spanner, from the right hand side of the
transmission case.
2. Check lubricant level: the level is correct when
the lubricant is at the bottom of the plug hole
threads.
If necessar y add the recom m ended lubricant to
bring to the correct level.
3. Clean the threads of the filler plug, reinstall and
tighten to the correct torque specification.
NOTE: Do not apply sealant or tape to the threads
of the filler (1) or drain (2) plugs.
GETRAG TRANSMISSION FILLER PLUG
TORQUE SPECIFICATION 40 - 60 Nm
T20B001
2
1
Figure 0B-17
TREMEC 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION (GEN III V8)
Important: This transmission is classified as
being a “Fill for Life” transmission and periodic
checking of the lubricant level is not required.
The only time that fluid level checking would be
appropriate, would be after c orr ec tion of a f luid leak
from the transmission or if the transmission had
been removed from the vehicle.
1. Raise the vehicle f ront and r ear and support on
safety stands, ensuring that the vehicle is level.
Refer to Section 0A GENERAL
INFORMATION of the VT Series I Service
Information, for the location of jacking points.
2. Place a drain tray beneath transmission and
remove transmission filler plug (1) from left
hand side of transmission case (2), using a 3/8”
drive socket bar.
NOTE: Depending on the severity of the loss, fluid
will probably flow from the filler plug hole, following
removal.
3. Allow excess fluid to drain until flow stops. If
required, top up fluid level until it does flow out.
Figure 0B-18
4. Clean the threads of the filler plug, apply thread
sealant such as Loctite 565 or equivalent (GM
P/N 12346004), then reinstall filler plug,
tightening to the correct torque specification.
Do not apply Teflon thread tape to the plug
threads.
TRANSMISSION FILLER PLUG
TORQUE SPECIFICATION 20 - 34 Nm
5. Remove the back-up lamp switch as follows:
a. Remove wiring harness connector (1) from
switch, located on the right hand side of the
transmission case .
Figure 0B-19
b. Loosen, then remove switch (arrow) from
the transmission case.
6. Using commercially available fluid dispensing
equipment, add a measured, 0.5 litres of the
recommended lubric ant to the trans miss ion, via
the back-up lamp switch threaded hole in the
transmission case .
7. Apply Loctite 565 or equivalent (GM P/N
12346004), to the cleaned threads of the bac k-
up lamp switch.
8. Install switch to transmission case and tighten
to the correct torque specification.
BACK-UP LAMP SWITCH
TORQUE SPECIFICATION 20 - 34 Nm
9. Install wiring harness connector to switch.
10. Remove safety stands and lower vehicle to
ground.
11. Check back-up lamp operation.
Figure 0B-20
3.3 DRAINING AND REFILLING TRANSMISSION
Should a lubricant change be required, then the
following procedure should be adopted.
NOTE: Periodic transmission lubricant changes are
not necessary. The lubricant should be changed
when overhauling the transmission.
GETRAG 5 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION (V6)
1. To drain the transm ission, jack up vehicle front
and rear and support on safety stands.
Refer to Section 0A GENERAL
INFORMATION of this Service Inf orm ation CD,
for the location of jacking points.
2. Place a drain tray beneath transmission and
remove the filler plug (1) and then the drain
plug (2) using a 17mm ring spanner.
3. W hen the transm ission has fully drained, clean
and refit drain plug and refill transmis sion to the
required level with Castrol VMX 80W oil (to
Holden specification HN1855) transmission
fluid, as outlined in 3.2 CHECKING
TRANSMISSION LUBRICANT LEVEL in this
Section.
4. Clean filler plug, reinstall and tighten both the
filler and drain plugs to the correct torque
specification.
NOTE: Do not apply sealant or tape to the threads
of the filler or drain plugs.
GETRAG TRANSMISSION FILLER PLUG
TORQUE SPECIFICATION 40 - 60 Nm
GETRAG TRANSMISSION DRAIN PLUG
TORQUE SPECIFICATION 40 - 60 Nm
T20B001
2
1
Figure 0B-21
TREMEC 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION (GEN III V8)
1. To drain tr ans mission, j ac k up vehicle f ront and
rear and support on safety stands.
Refer to Section 0A GENERAL
INFORMATION of this Service Inf orm ation CD,
for the location of jacking points.
2. Place a drain tray beneath transmission and
remove filler plug (refer to ‘1’ in Figure 0B-18 )
and then the drain plug (1) from the
transmission extension housing using a 3/8”
drive socket bar.
3. After draining, clean the threads of the drain
plug, apply thread sealant such as Loctite 565
or equivalent (GM P/N 12346004), then
reinstall, tightening to the correct torque
specification.
NOTE: Do not apply Teflon thread tape to the plug
threads.
TRANSMISSION DRAIN PLUG
TORQUE SPECIFICATION 20 - 34 Nm
4. Refill transmission to the correct level with
Dexron III transmission fluid (to Holden
specification HN 2126) as outlined in
CHECKING TRANSMISSION LUBRICANT
LEVEL in this Section.
Figure 0B-22
4. AUTOM ATIC TRANSMISSION LUBRICATION AND SERVICE
4.1 RECOMME NDED FLUID
The automatic transmission for VT Series Models requires fluid qualified to Dexron® III (to Holden specification
HN2126).
4.2 CHECKING TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVEL
The transmission fluid level dipstick (1) is located
on the right hand side of the engine, refer to
Fig.0B-21.
1. Bring transmission to normal operating
temperature (82 - 94°C) (or drive vehicle for a
distance of 24km).
NOTE: As temperature affects transmission fluid
levels, this operation must be carried out with the
transmission at normal operating temperature. If
the vehicle is not at normal operating temperature,
and the proper checking procedures are not
followed, the result could be a false reading of the
fluid level on the dipstick.
2. Park vehicle on level ground.
3. Place selector lever in ‘P’ (PARK) position.
4. Apply park brake.
5. Let engine idle for 3 minutes with accessories
(i.e. air conditioning) turned off.
6. Lift the coloured dipstick locking lever, remove
dipstick and check fluid level.
The fluid level should be within the HOT
(hatched) area of the dipstick. If the level is
below this area, add only enough Dexron® III
fluid to bring the level into the HOT (hatched)
area of the dipstick.
NOTE 1: Inaccurate readings will result if the fluid
level is checked immediately after the vehicle has
been operating under an of the following conditions:
• In high ambient temperatures above 32°C.
• At sustained high speeds
• In heavy city traffic during hot weather.
• Towing
• In commercial use (i.e. taxi)
If the vehicle has been operating under any of the
above conditions, switch of the engine and allow
the vehicle to cool for approximately 30 minutes,
then restart the vehicle and continue from step 2.
NOTE 2: The cold m arkings on the dipstick should
only be used as an indicator when initially f illing the
transmission after the fluid has been completely
drained. The fluid should be rechecked when the
transmission is hot.
NOTE 3: Due to the shape of the filler tube, level
readings may be misleading. Look carefully for full
fluid ring on both sides of the dipstick. Recheck if
any doubt of fluid level occurs.
NOTE 4: Also check the fluid for contamination,
discolouration or if it smells burnt. This gives an
indication that frictional materials within the
transmission may need replacement. Refer to
Section 7C3 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION of
this Service Information CD for additional
information.
Figure 0B-23
0.5 lt.
T20B006
Figure 0B-24
4.3 FLUID CHANGE
The transmission fluid and strainer should be changed at the time or distance intervals specified in 9.2
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this Section or in the VT Series Owner’s Handbook.
When changing the transmission fluid, refer to Section 7C4 AUTO TRANS. - GENERAL INFORMATION - 3.1
FLUID CHANGE AND FILTER REPLACEMENT of this Service Information CD.
5. BRAKE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM SERVICE
SAFETY AND CAUTIONARY NOTE FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ABS/ETC:
Whenever any component that forms part of the ABS or ABS/ETC (if fitted), is disturbed during Service
Operations, it is vital that the complete ABS or ABS/ETC system is checked, using the procedure as
detailed in 4 DIAGNOSIS, ABS or ABS/ET C FUNCTION CHECK, in Section 12L ABS & ABS/ETC, in the VT
Series I Service Information (V6) or in the VT Series II Service Information (GEN III V8) of this Service
Information CD.
5.1 RECOMME NDED FLUID
The r ecom m ended f luid for the VT Ser ies brak e hydraulic system is heavy duty brak e f luid to Holden’s s pecif ication
HN1796.
5.2 BRAKE FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Check that the fluid level is between the MIN and
MAX level markings on the translucent reservoir
housing.
NOTE: If the fluid is between the markings, do not
rem ove r eser voir c ap, as brake f luid expos ed to the
atmosphere will quickly absorb moisture.
Should the addition of fluid be required, wipe clean
the sides of the reservoir cover, then unclip and
rem ove the reservoir cap. T op up f luid using heavy
duty brake fluid to Holden’s Specification HN1796.
T20B014
Figure 0B-25
5.3 BRAKE FLUID REPLACEMENT
The entire f luid content of the brak e hydraulic system m us t be changed at the tim e or dis tance intervals specif ied in
9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this Section or in the VT Series Owner’s Handbook.
Due to the complexities of the brake fluid replacement procedure, refer to Section 5A BRAKES of this Service
Information CD, noting the following:
When bleeding brakes on vehicles with ABS or ABS/ETC, refer to Section 12L ABS & ABS/ETC (V6 engine) or
Section 12L ABS & ABS/ETC (GEN III V8 engine) of this Service Information CD.
6. CLUTCH HYDRAULIC SYSTEM SERVICE
6.1 RECOMME NDED FLUID
The recom mended fluid for the VT Series clutch hydraulic system is heavy duty brak e fluid to Holden’s s pecif ication
HN1796.
6.2 CLUTCH FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Check that the fluid level is between the two
guidelines on the translucent reservoir housing.
NOTE: If the fluid is between the markings, do not
rem ove r eser voir c ap, as brake f luid expos ed to the
atmosphere will quickly absorb moisture.
Should the addition of fluid be required, wipe clean
the sides of the reservoir cap, then unscrew and
rem ove the reservoir cap. T op up f luid using heavy
duty brake fluid to Holden’s Specification HN1796.
Figure 0B-26
6.3 CLUTCH FLUID REP LACEMENT
The entire fluid content of the clutch hydr aulic system m us t be changed at the tim e or dis tance intervals specif ied in
9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE in this Section or in the VT Series Owner’s Handbook.
To replace the clutch hydraulic fluid, refer to Section 7A CLUTCH with V6 engines or Section 7A CLUTCH for
vehicles with GEN III V8 engine.
7.2 CHECKING FINAL DRIVE LUBRICANT LEVEL
The final drive lubricant level should be checked at
the time or distance intervals specified in 9.2
MAINTENANCE SCHELDULE in this Section or in
the VT Series Owner’s Handbook.
To check final drive level:
1. Ensure the vehicle is level.
2. The final drive assembly is cold.
3. Clean the area around the filler plug (1).
4. Using a suitable socket and bar, remove the
filler plug.
5. The level is correct when the lubricant is at the
bottom of the filler plug hole.
6. Inspect filler plug for damage, if satisfactory,
refit into the final drive housing.
ENGINE &
FINAL DRIVE RECOM MENDE D L UBRICANT
TYPE
All V6 excludi ng Mineral Hypoid Gear Oil s uch as;
V6 Wagon AMPOL Gearlube SRD90, B P Lim slip 90,
with Manual CALTEX Gear Oil LSD, CA S T ROL LSX90,
Transm i ssion & MOBIL Lubrite LS 90, SHELL XD90LS,
V6 Supercharged VALVOLI NE HP Gear Oil LS 90 or equi val ent
Vehicl es lubricant to Holden's Specif i cation HN1561
All V8, V6 Wagon Synthetic Hypoid Gear Oil, such as ;
with Manual AMPOL Synthet ic Gear Oil 80W/140
Transm i s sion & CALTEX Synstar GL 80W-140
V6 Supercharged CASTROL S AF-XA
Vehicl es MOBIL Mobilube SHC Li mited Slip,
VALVOLI NE Synthetic Gear 75W-140, or
equivalent lubricant to Hol den's Spec ifi cat ion
HN2040
Figure 0B-27
7.3 PERIODIC SERVICING
Periodic draining of the final drive assembly is not
necessary.
Check for lubricant leaks at every service. If there
is evidence of leakage, repair leak and add
lubricant, if necessary, to the correct level.
The final drive breather (1) should be checked
regularly to ensure that the hose is not kinked or
damaged.
The top end of the breather hose should be
inserted at least 25 mm into the vehicle underbody
crossmember hole (2).
Figure 0B-28
8. POWER STEERING
8.1 RECOMME NDED FLUID
The recommended fluid for the VT Series power steering system is automatic transmission fluid, qualified to Dexron
® III (to Holden specification HN2126).
8.2 CHECKING POWER STEERING FLUID LEVEL
V6 AND V6 SUPERCHARGED ENGINE
The power steering fluid level is checked by
viewing the fluid through the transparent plastic
side of the reservoir (refer Fig.0B-29), which is
mounted to a bracket attached to the cooling fan
shroud.
If the fluid is cold, the level should be in the ‘COLD’
range. Sim ilar ly, if it is hot, the fluid s hould be in the
‘HOT’ range. If the fluid level is at the low side of
either range, f luid should be added to br ing the f luid
to the correct level.
Figure 0B-29
GEN III V8 ENGINE
With t he en gin e dress cover remov ed; the power
steering fluid level is checked in the same way as
the V6 and V6 supercharged engine power steering
fluid is checked, noting the following:
The power steering reservoir is mounted on the
front left hand side of the engine, above the power
steering pump.
With the en gine dress cover in stalled; chec k the
power steering fluid level by viewing the fluid
through the cut away in the engine dress cover at
the front of the engine.
The fluid level should be in the range of ‘Min cold’
and ‘max hot’ depending on the temper ature of the
fluid. If the fluid level is below the Min cold mark,
fluid should be added to bring the fluid to the
correct level.
T20B016
Figure 0B-30
8.3 PERIODIC SERVICING
Except under abnormal driving conditions (refer 9.1 ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS in this Section),
periodic draining of the power steering fluid is not necessary.
Check system f or f luid leaks at ever y service. If ther e is evidenc e of leakage, repair leak and add fluid, if neces sar y,
to the correct level.
9. SERVICING
9.1 ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
If the car is driven under any of the abnormal conditions listed below it is recommended that some items be
serviced more frequently than in the maintenance plan.
The extra servic es are only required while the car is dr iven under the abnor mal c onditions. If any of these conditions
are encountered on a one off bas is, then any additional servicing should be for that time only. As a guide, if the car
is operated continually over a period of one month or 1000 km under the abnormal conditions, then additional
servicing may be required.
ABNORMAL CONDITIONS
A When driving less than 10,000 km in six months.
B Dust, dirt, loose road material.
C Muddy and wet areas.
D Cold weather (below 5°C) and when most trips are less than 5km.
E Stop-start driving, excessive idling or low speed operation as experienced in inner city driving
i.e. Taxi, door to door delivery.
F Caravan or trailer towing.
G Extended heavy load high speed operation in temperatures above 35°C.
H When driving more than 250,000 km per 5 years.
EXTRA SERVICES REQUIRED
SERVICE REQUIRED ABNORMAL CONDITION
Change engine oil @ 6 months A
Change auto trans fluid and strainer @ 4 years A
Change automatic transmission fluid and strainer @ 20,000 km E F G
Inspect front suspension and steering for leaks, wear or damage @ 5,000 km BC
Replace engine oil filter @ 5,000 km or 3 months (whichever comes first) B
Change engine oil @ 5,000 km or 3 months (whichever comes first) BDFG
Relace air cleaner element @ 20,000 km B
Inspect and clean park brake linings @ 20,000 km BC
Change differential oil @ 20,000 km F G
Change brake fluid @ 1 year if 1,600 kg (or higher) tow bar fitted *F
Change power steering fluid @ 50,000 km F G
GEN III V8 only: change engine coolant H
Carbon canister: inspect @ 20,000 km and change @ 80,000 km BC
* Brak e fluid deterior ates with tim e and should norm ally be replaced every two years . However, heavy duty towing
requires fresher fluid due to the higher demand on the brak e system. Therefore, brake fluid should be replaced
each year if a 1,600 kg (or higher) tow bar is fitted, so that the brake sy stem can cope with the next year’s towing
requirements.
9.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
The following chart provides the maintenance schedule, together with a reference of where to find the necessary
service information in this Service Information CD for VT Series Models.
Use odom eter reading or years, whichever occurs
first. x 1000
km 1.5102030405060708090100110
UNDER HOOD Extra
Change engine oil and engine oil filter (Refer this
Section). *XXXXXXXXXX X
Check f l ui d l evel s: brake, clut ch, power steering,
autom at i c transmission, washer (Ref er t hi s Section,
& 12C WIPERS/WASHERS & INSTRUMENTS).
X XXXXXXXXX X
Check c ool ant inhibit or % with tester and check level
(pressure test system if level is low). (Refer Section
6B1 ENGINE COOLING -V6 ENGINE or 6B3
ENGINE COOLI NG - GE N I II V8 ENGINE).
X XXXXXXXXX X
Check bat tery elect rol yte and fluid l evel , if appli cable
(Refer Section 12A BA TTE RY).
XXXXXXXXXXX X
Engine accessory dri ve bel ts, check l ength indicator
and belt condi tion (Refer Section 6A 1-1 E NGINE
MECHANICAL - V 6 ENGINE or 6A3-3 ENGINE
MECHANICAL - GEN III V8 ENGINE).
XXX X
Check f or signs of deterioration and/or leaks from
engine, fl ui d reservoirs, ai r ducts, all hoses and
clamps.
X XXXXXXXXX X
(V6 engine) Drain and refill cooling s ys t em with
recom mended inhibi tor, cl ean out side of radiator and
A/C condenser (Refer Section 6B 1 E NGINE
COOLING -V6 ENGINE).
Change every 2.5 years (regardless of km)
(GEN III V 8 engine) Drain and ref ill cooling system
with recom mended inhibi tor, cl ean out side of
radiator and A/ C condenser (Refer Secti on 6B3
ENGINE COOLI NG - GE N I II V8 ENGINE).
*Change every 5 years
Replace engine air cleaner element (Refer Secti on
6C1-3 POWE RTRA IN MANAGEMENT - V 6
ENGINE or 6C3-3 P OWERTRAIN MANAGEMENT –
GEN III V8 ENGINE).
*XX
(Supercharger) Chec k supercharger oi l level (Refer
Section 6A1-2 ENGINE MECHANICAL - V6
SUPERCHARGED).
XX
(V6 engine) Replac e spark plugs (Refer Section
6D1-3 IGNITION SYSTEM - V6 ENGINE)
XX
(GEN III V8 engine) Replac e spark plugs (Refer
Secti on 6D3-3 IGNITION S Y S T EM - GEN III V 8
ENGINE)
X
NOTE: All items marked with an asterisk in the ‘Extra’ column, require additional servicing under some driving
conditions. Refer to 9.1 ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS in this Section.
Techline
UNDER CAR
Use odom eter reading or years, whichever occurs
first. x 1000
km 1.5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110
Extra
Replace fuel filter (Refer Section 6C1-3
POW ERTRAIN MANA GEMENT - V6 ENG or 6C3-3
POWE RT RAIN MANAGE MENT - GE N III V 8 ENG).
XX
Check f i nal dri ve oi l l evel (Refer this S ection). XX
Check f i nal dri ve and aut o trans for l eaks. X XXXXXX X XXXX
Change auto trans fluid and strainer (Refer Section
7C-4 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION). *X
Check manual transmission oil level (Refer this
Section). XX
Check manual transmi ssion f or l eaks. X XXXXX X XXXX
Change differential oil (Refer Section 4B FINAL
DRIVE & DRIVE SHAFTS). *Change not required under normal driving condi tions
Inspect front and rear disc pads for wear and disc
surface condition (Refer Section 5A STANDARD
BRAKES). Rotate wheels (Refer Section 10
WHEELS & TYRES).
XXXXX X XXXX
Check park brake linings and drum s for wear (Refer
Section 5A STANDARD BRAKES). *XX
Inspect tyres for irregular wear or damage. Check
for damaged wheels. Check air pressures. (Refer
Secti on 10 WHEELS & TYRES )
X XXXXXX X XXXX
Drain, refill and bleed brake system, check brake
perform ance when road testing (Ref er this S ection). *
Change every 2 years (regardless of km) under normal driving
conditions
Drain, refill and bleed clutch system (Refer Section
7A CLUTCH – V6 or 7A1 CLUTCH - GEN III V8.)
Change every 2 years (regardless of km)
Check all brake and fuel lines and hoses for
conditi on, attac hment and routing. X XXXXX X XXXX
Inspect front and rear suspension and steering
system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs
of wear or lack of lubric ation. Inspec t power s teering
lines and hoses for condition, attachment and
routing, leaks, etc. Check condition of all rubber
boots and c overs.
*X XXXXX X XXXX
Inspect exhaust and adjacent underbody. Look for
damaged, missing or out-of-position parts, open
seam s, holes , or loose connec tions.
X XXXXX X XXXX
Inspect constant velocity joint for damage or torn
boot. XXXXX X XXXX
Clean and lubricate automatic transmission shift
linkage. XX X
Clean out air c ondi tioning drain t ubes. XX
Check carbon canister for leaks or restrictions
(Refer Section 6E1 EMISSION CONTROL - V6
ENG. or 6E3 EMISSION CONTROL - GEN III V8
ENG).
*XXX
CAR INTERIOR
Check park brake operation. XXXXXX X XXXX
Inspect seat belts, check webbing condition, buckle
operation and retrac tor mechanism. XXX X X
CAR EXTERIOR
Check operat i on of all exterior lights. X XXXXXX X XXXX
Lubricate hood catch, door hinges, rear door links
only and lock cylinders.XXX X X
Check t ransmi tter range of securit y s ystem. XXXXXX X XXXX
ROAD TEST
Check braking, steering, engine response and
transmission operation. Check operation of cruise
control. Check park pawl operation. Check A/C
perform ance. Check neutral s tart switch.
X XXXXXX X XXX X
NOTE: All items marked with an asterisk in the ‘Extra’ column, require additional servicing under some driving
conditions. Refer to 9.1 ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS in this Section.
10. LUBRICANT RECOMM E NDATIONS
APPLICATION LUBRICANTS
Body - Door Lock Striker Bolts
Door Lock Fork Bolts
Instrument Compartment Lid Lock Tongue
Engine Hood Catch
Engine Hood Lock
Engine Hood Hinge
Door Hinge and Rear Door Hold Opens Only
Rear Compartment Lid Hinge
Rear Compartment Lid Lock Mechanism
Door Window Regulators
Door Window Guides and Cams
Front Seat Adjuster
Recliner Assembly - Front Seat
Window Regulator Friction Surfaces
Front Door Lock Cylinder
Ignition and Steering Lock Cylinder
Rear Compartment Lid Lock Cylinder
Instrument Panel Compartment Lock Cylinder
Starter Motor Drive Mechanism
Starter Motor Bearings
Park Brake Shoe Assemblies
Brake Adjusting Screw and Nut
Park Brake Shoe Actuator Pivots
Brake and Clutch Hydraulic System
Propeller Shaft Centre Constant Velocity Joint
Final Drive:
All V6 excluding V6 W agon with manual
transmission & V6 supercharged engine
vehicles
All V8, V6 Wagon with manual
transmission & V6 supercharged engine
vehicles
Engine Oil:GEN III V8 and V6 excluding LPG
V6 LPG
Engine Supercharger
Clutch Throw-Out Bearing - Getrag 5 speed
manual transmission (V6)
Bearing Face of Clutch Throw-Out Bearing, input
shaft splines and spigot - Tremec 6 speed manual
transmission (GEN III V8)
Clutch and Brake Pedal Pivots and Bushes
Accelerator Pedal Pivots
Manual Transmission
Getrag 5 speed manual (V6)
GEN III V8
Solidoil
NLGI No. 1 Lithium Grease (with Zinc Oxide) meeting Holden
Specification HN1225
Lithium Based Grease Holden Specification Number HN1416
Powdered Graphite (applied through key aperture - do not oil)
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN1271
Engine Oil at Overhaul
Special HT Grease to Holden Specification HN1227
Special HT Grease to Holden Specification HN1227
Mol
y
bdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden’s Specification HN1587
Heavy duty brake fluid to Holden Specification HN1796 (Part
No.92026651)
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN1271
Mineral Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 90. A.P.I. GL5.
To Holden Specification HN1561.
Synthetic Hypoid Gear Oil A.P.I. GL5 SAE 80W-140
To Holden Specification HN2040.
10W-30 SJ GF2 Quality Engine Oil
15W-40 SH/CG4 or 15W-40 SJ/CG4 Quality Engine Oil to Holden
Specification HN2314
Supercharger Oil (Part No. 12345982)
Molybdenum disulphide grease to Holden Specification HN1271
Molybdenum disulphide grease to Holden Specification HN1271
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN1271
Lithium Grease to Holden Specification HN1225
Castrol VMX 80W oil to Holden Specification HN1855
Dexron® III Automatic Transmission Fluid to Holden Specification
HN2126
APPLICATION LUBRICANTS
Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission Control Pivot Points
Steering Gear - Power (Mechanical)
(Hydraulic)
Windshield Wiper Pivot Points
Coolant Concentrate
V6 and V6 supercharged
GEN III V8 engine
Check Link Housing - Rear Door Only
Check Link Arm - Rear Door Only
Dexron® III Automatic Transmission Fluid to Holden Specification
HN 2126
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN1416
EP Semi Fluid Lithium Base Type O Grease
Dexron® III Automatic Transmission Fluid to Holden Specification
HN2126
Molybdenum Disulphide Grease to Holden Specification HN1271
Inhibited Glycol Coolant to Holden Specification HN2043 only,
at 50% by Volume in water.
50% Dexcool to GM Specification GM 6277M and 50% water.
NLGI No. 2 Polyurea Grease (Mineral Oil Base) - 1.2g Applied to
Arm
NLGI No. 2 Lithium Complex Grease - 1.2g Applied to Housing