{"id":7193,"date":"2026-06-16T11:10:41","date_gmt":"2026-06-16T11:10:41","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/australianholden.com\/?p=7193"},"modified":"2026-06-21T12:17:14","modified_gmt":"2026-06-21T12:17:14","slug":"how-to-inspect-an-early-holden-before-buying","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/index.php\/2026\/06\/16\/how-to-inspect-an-early-holden-before-buying\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Inspect an Early Holden Before Buying"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Inspect an Early Holden Before Buying<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re chasing a 48-215, FJ, FE, FC, FB, EK, EJ, EH, HD, HR, HK, HT or HG, there&#8217;s something special about owning a piece of Australian motoring history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unfortunately, excitement can sometimes cloud judgement. Many buyers focus on shiny paint, chrome trim and a healthy-sounding engine while overlooking the issues that can turn a dream purchase into a financial nightmare. Rust, poor-quality repairs, missing parts and hidden mechanical problems can easily add tens of thousands of dollars to a restoration budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The good news is that most early Holdens suffer from the same common issues, and a careful inspection can reveal the majority of them before money changes hands.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"fu_ebay_0\"><!-- Presentation: cols = 4, rows = 2, slideshow = Manual, slides = 3, slideId = 0 --><div class=\"fu_ebay_results_container \">\n<h5 class=\"fu_ebay_results_title\" style=\"display: block !important;\">\n<a name=\"fu_slidetop_0\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebay.com.au\/?mkcid=1&#038;mkrid=705-53470-19255-0&#038;siteid=15&#038;campid=5339152561&#038;customid=5339151688&#038;toolid=10049&#038;mkevt=1\" class=\"fu_ebay\" style=\"display:inline !important;\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/fast-ebay-listings\/US\/Right_Now_108x45.gif?resize=108%2C45&#038;ssl=1\" style=\"border:0;display:block !important;\" width=\"108\" height=\"45\" alt=\"Right Now on eBay\"\/><\/a>&nbsp;Holden<\/h5>\nLoading&#8230;<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<script>\n<!--\nvar content_fu_ebay_0 = null;\nvar waitForDepends_fu_ebay_0 = setInterval(function () {\n  if (typeof jQuery !== \"undefined\") {\n  if (window.fu_is_bot_useragent !== undefined) {\n    clearInterval(waitForDepends_fu_ebay_0);\n    if (typeof jQuery.ajax == \"undefined\") {\n      console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: jQuery.ajax missing. Are you using jQuery.Slim that doesn't include ajax? \");\n      return;\n    }\n    if (fu_is_bot_useragent) return;\n    content_fu_ebay_0 = jQuery(\"#fu_ebay_0\");\n    jQuery(document).ready(jQuery.ajax({\n      type : \"post\",\n      url : \"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php\",\n      data : {\n        action : \"fu_ebay_load_search\",\nfuDisableAPICache : 0,\nfuTraceLogging : 0,\nebay_country : \"AU\",\nfu_ebay_customId : \"\",\nfu_ebay_widget : 0,\nfu_ebay_picwidth : 225,\nfu_ebay_arrangement : 0,\nfu_ebay_title : \"Holden\",\nfu_ebay_query : \"Rare Holden\",\nfu_ebay_searchInDesc : 0,\nfu_ebay_searchLocation : \"Internationally\",\nfu_ebay_pickupPostcode : \"\",\nfu_ebay_pickupRadius : 0,\nfu_ebay_sort : \"BestMatch\",\nfu_ebay_categoryIds : \"6030\",\nfu_ebay_sellers : \"\",\nfu_ebay_sellerType : \"\",\nfu_ebay_buyingOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_conditionOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_minPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_minBids : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxBids : 0,\nfu_cols : 4,\nfu_rows : 2,\nfu_slideshow : \"Manual\",\nfu_slides : 3,\nfu_slideId : 0,\n\n      },\n      success : function( response ) {\n        content_fu_ebay_0.html( response );\n      },\n      error: function(e) {\n        console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: deferred loading error: \" + e);\n      }\n    }));\n  }}\n}, 10);\n\/\/-->\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Inspection Matters<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unlike modern vehicles, most early Holdens have been repaired, modified, restored or repainted at least once during their lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some have been restored to a very high standard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Others have simply been patched up to look good long enough for a sale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The difference between those two cars can easily be $20,000 to $50,000 in future repair costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal of a pre-purchase inspection isn&#8217;t necessarily to find a perfect car. It&#8217;s to understand exactly what you&#8217;re buying and ensure the asking price reflects the vehicle&#8217;s true condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Biggest Problem: Rust<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If there is one thing that determines the value of an early Holden more than anything else, it&#8217;s rust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Engines can be rebuilt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gearboxes can be repaired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Interiors can be replaced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rust in structural areas can quickly become extremely expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Rust Areas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pay particular attention to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Front guards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rear quarter panels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Door bottoms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Floor pans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Boot floor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spare wheel well<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plenum chamber<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Windscreen surrounds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rear window surrounds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chassis rails<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Subframe mounting points<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bubbling paint<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mismatched paint texture<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cracks in body filler<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fresh underbody coatings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soft metal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Previous welding repairs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A small bubble can often hide extensive corrosion underneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Inspection Tool<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the smartest purchases any buyer can make is a borescope inspection camera.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Product: DEPSTECH Digital Borescope Inspection Camera<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Why it&#8217;s useful:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Looks inside sills and chassis rails<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspects behind panels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identifies hidden rust<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Connects directly to smartphones<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can save thousands in repair costs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many sellers genuinely don&#8217;t know what&#8217;s hiding inside enclosed cavities, making a borescope one of the best investments before inspecting any project car.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"fu_ebay_1\"><!-- Presentation: cols = 4, rows = 2, slideshow = Manual, slides = 3, slideId = 1 --><div class=\"fu_ebay_results_container \">\n<h5 class=\"fu_ebay_results_title\" style=\"display: block !important;\">\n<a name=\"fu_slidetop_1\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebay.com.au\/?mkcid=1&#038;mkrid=705-53470-19255-0&#038;siteid=15&#038;campid=5339152561&#038;customid=5339151688&#038;toolid=10049&#038;mkevt=1\" class=\"fu_ebay\" style=\"display:inline !important;\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/fast-ebay-listings\/US\/Right_Now_108x45.gif?resize=108%2C45&#038;ssl=1\" style=\"border:0;display:block !important;\" width=\"108\" height=\"45\" alt=\"Right Now on eBay\"\/><\/a>&nbsp;Digital Borescope Inspection Camera<\/h5>\nLoading&#8230;<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<script>\n<!--\nvar content_fu_ebay_1 = null;\nvar waitForDepends_fu_ebay_1 = setInterval(function () {\n  if (typeof jQuery !== \"undefined\") {\n  if (window.fu_is_bot_useragent !== undefined) {\n    clearInterval(waitForDepends_fu_ebay_1);\n    if (typeof jQuery.ajax == \"undefined\") {\n      console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: jQuery.ajax missing. Are you using jQuery.Slim that doesn't include ajax? \");\n      return;\n    }\n    if (fu_is_bot_useragent) return;\n    content_fu_ebay_1 = jQuery(\"#fu_ebay_1\");\n    jQuery(document).ready(jQuery.ajax({\n      type : \"post\",\n      url : \"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php\",\n      data : {\n        action : \"fu_ebay_load_search\",\nfuDisableAPICache : 0,\nfuTraceLogging : 0,\nebay_country : \"AU\",\nfu_ebay_customId : \"\",\nfu_ebay_widget : 0,\nfu_ebay_picwidth : 225,\nfu_ebay_arrangement : 0,\nfu_ebay_title : \"Digital Borescope Inspection Camera\",\nfu_ebay_query : \"inspection Camera\",\nfu_ebay_searchInDesc : 0,\nfu_ebay_searchLocation : \"Internationally\",\nfu_ebay_pickupPostcode : \"\",\nfu_ebay_pickupRadius : 0,\nfu_ebay_sort : \"BestMatch\",\nfu_ebay_categoryIds : \"6030\",\nfu_ebay_sellers : \"\",\nfu_ebay_sellerType : \"\",\nfu_ebay_buyingOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_conditionOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_minPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_minBids : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxBids : 0,\nfu_cols : 4,\nfu_rows : 2,\nfu_slideshow : \"Manual\",\nfu_slides : 3,\nfu_slideId : 1,\n\n      },\n      success : function( response ) {\n        content_fu_ebay_1.html( response );\n      },\n      error: function(e) {\n        console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: deferred loading error: \" + e);\n      }\n    }));\n  }}\n}, 10);\n\/\/-->\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Check the Body Alignment<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Panel fit tells a story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Factory panel gaps on early Holdens were never perfect, but major inconsistencies should raise questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inspect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Door gaps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bonnet alignment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Boot alignment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Guard fitment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Front end symmetry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Warning signs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>One side different to the other<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Doors dropping when opened<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bonnet sitting unevenly<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fresh paint around hinges<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These can indicate accident damage, rust repairs or structural movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inspect the Chassis and Subframe<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Early Holdens use a front subframe design which is highly susceptible to corrosion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pay close attention to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mounting points<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suspension pickup points<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Steering box mounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crossmember areas<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Surface rust is generally manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heavy scaling, cracking or previous repairs require much closer inspection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Engine Inspection<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many buyers become distracted by shiny rocker covers and detailed engine bays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus instead on condition and originality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oil leaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coolant leaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excessive crankcase pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Smoke from exhaust<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knocking noises<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor idle quality<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A tired engine isn&#8217;t necessarily a deal-breaker, but it should influence the purchase price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Check for Cooling System Problems<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overheating is common in older Holdens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inspect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Radiator condition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coolant colour<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water pump leaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hose condition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thermostat housing corrosion<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brown coolant often suggests poor maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">White staining can indicate previous overheating issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Electrical System Inspection<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Early Holden wiring is simple but age can create problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Headlights<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Indicators<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Brake lights<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dash lights<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Horn<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wipers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heater fan<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Brittle wiring<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor repairs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Electrical tape fixes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Added accessories<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Original wiring harnesses can often be repaired, but heavily modified systems can become frustrating to diagnose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Battery Tester<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A battery and charging system test can reveal hidden issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Product: TOPDON BT100 Battery Tester<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Benefits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fast battery testing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Charging system analysis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Starter motor checks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suitable for classic vehicles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This simple tool can identify charging faults before they leave you stranded.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"fu_ebay_2\"><!-- Presentation: cols = 4, rows = 2, slideshow = Manual, slides = 3, slideId = 2 --><div class=\"fu_ebay_results_container \">\n<h5 class=\"fu_ebay_results_title\" style=\"display: block !important;\">\n<a name=\"fu_slidetop_2\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebay.com.au\/?mkcid=1&#038;mkrid=705-53470-19255-0&#038;siteid=15&#038;campid=5339152561&#038;customid=5339151688&#038;toolid=10049&#038;mkevt=1\" class=\"fu_ebay\" style=\"display:inline !important;\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/fast-ebay-listings\/US\/Right_Now_108x45.gif?resize=108%2C45&#038;ssl=1\" style=\"border:0;display:block !important;\" width=\"108\" height=\"45\" alt=\"Right Now on eBay\"\/><\/a>&nbsp;Battery Tester<\/h5>\nLoading&#8230;<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<script>\n<!--\nvar content_fu_ebay_2 = null;\nvar waitForDepends_fu_ebay_2 = setInterval(function () {\n  if (typeof jQuery !== \"undefined\") {\n  if (window.fu_is_bot_useragent !== undefined) {\n    clearInterval(waitForDepends_fu_ebay_2);\n    if (typeof jQuery.ajax == \"undefined\") {\n      console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: jQuery.ajax missing. Are you using jQuery.Slim that doesn't include ajax? \");\n      return;\n    }\n    if (fu_is_bot_useragent) return;\n    content_fu_ebay_2 = jQuery(\"#fu_ebay_2\");\n    jQuery(document).ready(jQuery.ajax({\n      type : \"post\",\n      url : \"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php\",\n      data : {\n        action : \"fu_ebay_load_search\",\nfuDisableAPICache : 0,\nfuTraceLogging : 0,\nebay_country : \"AU\",\nfu_ebay_customId : \"\",\nfu_ebay_widget : 0,\nfu_ebay_picwidth : 225,\nfu_ebay_arrangement : 0,\nfu_ebay_title : \"Battery Tester\",\nfu_ebay_query : \"car Battery Tester\",\nfu_ebay_searchInDesc : 0,\nfu_ebay_searchLocation : \"Internationally\",\nfu_ebay_pickupPostcode : \"\",\nfu_ebay_pickupRadius : 0,\nfu_ebay_sort : \"BestMatch\",\nfu_ebay_categoryIds : \"6030\",\nfu_ebay_sellers : \"\",\nfu_ebay_sellerType : \"\",\nfu_ebay_buyingOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_conditionOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_minPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_minBids : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxBids : 0,\nfu_cols : 4,\nfu_rows : 2,\nfu_slideshow : \"Manual\",\nfu_slides : 3,\nfu_slideId : 2,\n\n      },\n      success : function( response ) {\n        content_fu_ebay_2.html( response );\n      },\n      error: function(e) {\n        console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: deferred loading error: \" + e);\n      }\n    }));\n  }}\n}, 10);\n\/\/-->\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inspect the Interior<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replacement trim for early Holdens can be expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Seat condition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Door trims<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dash pad<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Steering wheel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Headlining<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carpet<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some components are readily available, while others can be difficult or costly to source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A complete original interior is often worth paying extra for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Look Underneath<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never buy an early Holden without inspecting underneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bring:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Torch<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creeper<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspection mirror<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rust repairs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oil leaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bent suspension components<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exhaust damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chassis corrosion<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fresh underbody paint can sometimes hide poor-quality repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Workshop Inspection Light<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good lighting makes a huge difference during inspections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended Product: NEBO Big Larry LED Work Light<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Advantages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Extremely bright output<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Magnetic base<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rechargeable options available<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compact enough for vehicle inspections<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A proper inspection light often reveals defects that would otherwise be missed.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"fu_ebay_3\"><!-- Presentation: cols = 4, rows = 2, slideshow = Manual, slides = 3, slideId = 3 --><div class=\"fu_ebay_results_container \">\n<h5 class=\"fu_ebay_results_title\" style=\"display: block !important;\">\n<a name=\"fu_slidetop_3\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebay.com.au\/?mkcid=1&#038;mkrid=705-53470-19255-0&#038;siteid=15&#038;campid=5339152561&#038;customid=5339151688&#038;toolid=10049&#038;mkevt=1\" class=\"fu_ebay\" style=\"display:inline !important;\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/australianholden.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/fast-ebay-listings\/US\/Right_Now_108x45.gif?resize=108%2C45&#038;ssl=1\" style=\"border:0;display:block !important;\" width=\"108\" height=\"45\" alt=\"Right Now on eBay\"\/><\/a>&nbsp;LED Worklight<\/h5>\nLoading&#8230;<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<script>\n<!--\nvar content_fu_ebay_3 = null;\nvar waitForDepends_fu_ebay_3 = setInterval(function () {\n  if (typeof jQuery !== \"undefined\") {\n  if (window.fu_is_bot_useragent !== undefined) {\n    clearInterval(waitForDepends_fu_ebay_3);\n    if (typeof jQuery.ajax == \"undefined\") {\n      console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: jQuery.ajax missing. 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Are you using jQuery.Slim that doesn't include ajax? \");\n      return;\n    }\n    if (fu_is_bot_useragent) return;\n    content_fu_ebay_4 = jQuery(\"#fu_ebay_4\");\n    jQuery(document).ready(jQuery.ajax({\n      type : \"post\",\n      url : \"https:\/\/australianholden.com\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php\",\n      data : {\n        action : \"fu_ebay_load_search\",\nfuDisableAPICache : 0,\nfuTraceLogging : 0,\nebay_country : \"AU\",\nfu_ebay_customId : \"\",\nfu_ebay_widget : 0,\nfu_ebay_picwidth : 225,\nfu_ebay_arrangement : 0,\nfu_ebay_title : \"Digital Paint Thickness Gauge\",\nfu_ebay_query : \"Digital Paint Thickness Gauge\",\nfu_ebay_searchInDesc : 0,\nfu_ebay_searchLocation : \"Internationally\",\nfu_ebay_pickupPostcode : \"\",\nfu_ebay_pickupRadius : 0,\nfu_ebay_sort : \"BestMatch\",\nfu_ebay_categoryIds : \"6030\",\nfu_ebay_sellers : \"\",\nfu_ebay_sellerType : \"\",\nfu_ebay_buyingOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_conditionOptions : \"\",\nfu_ebay_minPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxPrice : 0,\nfu_ebay_minBids : 0,\nfu_ebay_maxBids : 0,\nfu_cols : 4,\nfu_rows : 2,\nfu_slideshow : \"Manual\",\nfu_slides : 3,\nfu_slideId : 4,\n\n      },\n      success : function( response ) {\n        content_fu_ebay_4.html( response );\n      },\n      error: function(e) {\n        console.log(\"Fast eBay Listings: deferred loading error: \" + e);\n      }\n    }));\n  }}\n}, 10);\n\/\/-->\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Questions to Ask the Seller<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>How long have you owned it?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What rust repairs have been completed?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Has it been in storage?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Has it overheated?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Has the engine been rebuilt?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are there receipts?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What still needs attention?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The answers often reveal as much as the inspection itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Buying an early Holden is about much more than finding a car that looks good in photos. The real value lies beneath the paint, inside the panels and underneath the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rust remains the biggest threat, followed closely by poor-quality repairs and incomplete restorations. By taking the time to inspect carefully and using a few simple tools, you can avoid costly mistakes and find a Holden that will provide years of enjoyment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember, engines and gearboxes can be rebuilt relatively easily. Structural rust and poor body repairs are where restoration budgets quickly spiral out of control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A careful inspection today can save thousands tomorrow and help ensure that your dream Holden remains a dream rather than becoming an expensive lesson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How to Inspect an Early Holden Before Buying Whether you&#8217;re chasing a 48-215, FJ, FE, FC, FB, EK, EJ, EH, HD, HR, HK, HT or HG, there&#8217;s something special about owning a piece of Australian motoring history. Unfortunately, excitement can sometimes cloud judgement. Many buyers focus on shiny paint, chrome trim and a healthy-sounding engine [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":571,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7193","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Inspect an Early Holden Before Buying - 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