The EH Holden (1963–1965) and EJ Holden (1962–1963) are iconic Australian classics that represented Holden’s move into more modern styling and mechanical refinement. Both models are highly sought after by collectors, and knowing what to inspect before buying is critical to avoid costly mistakes and maximise your investment.
1. Body & Rust
EH Holden
- Common rust areas: floor pans, sills, boot floor, rear guards, wheel arches, and door bottoms.
- Inspect front guards and bonnet edges for corrosion, as these areas are prone to rusting.
- Check for evidence of previous repairs, including filler, welding, and mismatched paint.
EJ Holden
- Similar rust-prone areas as EH, but also pay attention to boot floor and rear guard sections.
- The EJ was slightly less refined in corrosion protection than the EH, so extra caution is needed when evaluating body panels.
2. Engine & Drivetrain
EH Holden
- Engines: 149 Red Motor, with optional high-performance 179 cu in engine for EH Special.
- Transmission: 3-speed manual, or 3-speed Hydramatic automatic.
- Common issues: oil leaks, worn timing chains, valve guide wear, and old gaskets.
EJ Holden
- Engines: 138 Grey Motor (standard).
- Transmission: 3-speed manual or optional Hydramatic automatic.
- Watch for clutch wear, oil leaks, and carburettor issues.
3. Suspension & Steering
- Both models use front independent coil suspension and rear leaf springs.
- Inspect shock absorbers, control arm bushings, and rear leaf springs for sagging or wear.
- Steering: EHs had slight improvements in steering ratio; check for play in the steering box.
4. Brakes
- Drum brakes all around; later EH models had minor improvements in braking efficiency.
- Inspect wheel cylinders, brake shoes, and drums.
- Check master cylinder for leaks; consider a full rebuild for safety.
5. Interior
- Upholstery and carpets may show significant wear.
- Check dash instruments, switches, and knobs for functionality and originality.
- Original parts, including steering wheels and badges, increase value.
6. Electrical & Lighting
- Both models run on 12-volt systems.
- Inspect wiring for frays, corrosion, and functionality.
- All lights, gauges, and horns should be operational; consider LED upgrades for safety.
7. Paperwork & Provenance
- Verify VIN and engine numbers; original numbers increase collectability.
- Check for service records, restoration receipts, and previous ownership history.
- Original paint, trim, and badges add value and authenticity.
8. Market Value & Investment
- EH Holdens are highly collectible, particularly in original or fully restored condition.
- EJ Holdens are rarer and can be very desirable among collectors.
- Value is driven by condition, originality, and completeness of restoration