Holden Commodore 2006 Problems

THE simple answer is don't do it. The engine Holden uses in its dual-fuel VZ has been modified to suit LPG and it does need those modifications to survive. Without them the regular VZ engine lasts less than 50,000km before the heads need rebuilding.

THE keys to keeping your auto alive are to service it regularly and not overheat it by overloading. Holden has towing packs capable of handling 1200kg, 1600kg and 2100kg for the VZ. I recommend you go for the heaviest. As for the chassis and driveline, I don't see a problem, but do get the best towing pack. I would only be guessing on the fuel consumption you might get.

REAR tyre wear on the Commodore with IRS is a well-documented problem. It's caused by the geometry of the suspension which results in the rear wheels moving in such a way that they wear the inside of the tyres. The price you've been quoted is consistent with what I've been told so I would recommend you have the kit fitted. The alternative is to replace tyres.

KITS are available to run the 5.7-litre Holden V8 on LPG. Impco has a kit based on its Sequential Gas Injection for the V8 Crewman, and they should be able to supply a kit for the SS sedan.

IF HIS priorities are reliability and costs, I would recommend a Toyota Hilux, either a diesel or a four-cylinder petrol. But I'm guessing he wants a little more zip. If he wants a Holden or Falcon ute, then the six-cylinder models are the way to go. They are equally reliable, but the Holden will be a little cheaper to run. Lowering the suspension would cost $500 to $1000, depending on what he wants done.

YES, the VZ can be fitted with LPG, and Holden has a factory-approved duel-fuel kit that was developed by Impco. But it's available only on the VZ Executive sedan and wagon, so you may have to look to an after-market kit for another model. In that case, the engine won't have the internal changes, but Impco and Victorian Autogas Supplies have kits that are satisfactory on the Commodore.