The WB Holden was the final evolution of the long-running HQ-based platform, and while it looks similar to the earlier HZ, it’s mechanically and structurally different in several key areas. Available only as a Luxury Statesman, and commercial variants — including the WB Utility, Panel Van, One Tonner, and Cab Chassis — the WB is now highly desirable among restorers and collectors.
Restoring a WB Holden requires model-specific knowledge, as many parts are WB-only or differ from HQ–HZ equivalents.
WB Holden Engine Options
By the WB era, Holden had refined its emissions-compliant engines and improved reliability.
Factory Engine Options
- 202ci Blue Six
- 253ci V8
- 308ci V8
Important: Late WB models dropped the 308 due to emissions regulations, making factory 308 WBs particularly desirable today.
Engine Restoration Checklist
202ci Six-Cylinder
- Pistons, rings & bearings
- Timing chain & gears
- Oil pump
- Water pump
- Full gasket set
- Rochester carburettor rebuild kit
- Engine mounts
- Emissions hoses & vacuum fittings
253 / 308 V8
- Low-compression pistons
- Camshaft suited for emissions-era heads
- Timing set
- Oil pump
- Quadrajet carburettor rebuild kit
- Harmonic balancer
- Engine mounts
Transmission & Driveline (WB Holden)
Factory Gearboxes
- 4-speed manual (M20 / M21)
- Trimatic automatic
- Turbo-Hydramatic 400 (V8)
Driveline Checklist
- Clutch kit & spigot bush
- Gearbox rebuild kits
- Shifter bushes
- Tailshaft uni joints
- Differential bearings & seals
- Salisbury differential (often LSD on One Tonners)
Fuel System & Cooling
WB Holdens often lived hard commercial lives, so fuel and cooling systems are commonly neglected.
Fuel System
- Replacement fuel tank
- Fuel sender unit
- Ethanol-safe fuel hose
- Mechanical fuel pump
- Charcoal canister & emissions plumbing
Cooling System
- Heavy-duty radiator
- Fan clutch
- Thermostat
- Heater core
- Correct WB radiator hoses
Suspension & Chassis (WB-Specific)
WB vehicles were designed to carry loads, meaning suspension components differ significantly from passenger H-series cars.
Suspension Checklist
- Heavy-duty front coil springs
- Heavy-duty shock absorbers
- Control arm bushes
- Ball joints
- Rear leaf springs
- Shackle bushes
- Panhard rod bushes
WB One Tonners/ cab chassis models use unique rear suspension components.
Steering & Brakes
WB Holdens benefit from the improved braking systems introduced late in the H-series lifecycle.
Steering
- Steering box rebuild kit
- Tie rod ends
- Idler arm
- Rag joint
Brakes
- Front disc brake rebuild kits
- Rear drum kits
- Master cylinder
- Brake booster
- Brake hoses
Bodywork, Rust & Exterior Panels
Common WB Rust Areas
- Chassis rails
- Floor pans
- Sills
- Rear quarters (utes & vans)
- Tray mounts
- Windscreen channels
- Firewall and plenum
Exterior Parts Checklist
- WB grille
- Headlight surrounds
- Tail lights
- Bumpers
- Door handles
- WB-specific badges
- Full rubber seal kit
Interior Restoration (WB Commercial Trim)
WB interiors are utilitarian but increasingly rare in original condition.
Interior Checklist
- Bench or bucket seats
- Seat foam & trim
- Door cards
- Dash pad
- Instrument cluster
- Headlining
- Rubber floor mats or carpet kits
Electrical System
Electrical Checklist
- Engine bay wiring loom
- Headlights & indicators
- Tail lights
- Alternator
- Starter motor
- Voltage regulator
- Fuse box
Wheels, Tyres & Final Details
Wheels
- Factory steel wheels
- GTS-style wheels
- Period-correct commercial rims
Finishing Touches
- Engine bay decals
- Fastener kits
- Period accessories