The Holden Story

One of the big reasons for the popularity of the EH was its performance . . . a big jump from the EJ which used basically the same 138 Cu. in. engine as the FB

For the first time GMH offered two new engines.

The engines were oversquare design, low piston speed 149 and 179 Cu. in. sixes. The 149 produced 100 bhp (33 per cent more than the EJ 138) and 115 bhp for the 179(53 per cent). The 179 was available as an option on all automatic models.

The new engines were designed to be smoother, longer lasting and give greater petrol economy. The shorter stroke, larger bore engines helped make servicing easier with a better design.

New features of the engines included seven bearing crankshaft and hydraulic valve lifters for quieter operation. The oil pump was placed outside the cylinder block. Oil changes were needed after the first 4000 miles and then at only 6000 mile intervals. Camshaft contours were designed for better economy and performance at low and medium speeds. The cylinder block consisted of seven bulkheads and seven main bearings for greater strength with minimum weight. The new engines were supported by two rubber mounts. The cylinder head was secured to the block with fourteen bolts to stop possible distortion and give effective gasket sealing. Spark plugs had protective boots on the outside. Aluminium housings were used on the water pump, distributor and timing gear.

The EH was a much squarer, cleaner design. The car had a clean roofline and a longer look at the back. This enlarged the boot to 22 cu. ft. The tail light cluster was now square. The rear window was curved.

Stainless steel body side mouldings were used. The front had a bolder new radiator grille and an open ventilator grille. Windscreen wipers now had a bigger swept area.

The upholstery, trim and instrument cluster was now very modern. The ignition switch had an accessory position for the first time.

A special EH called the S4 was built in limited numbers to compete in the 1963 Bathurst race. The S4 EH had hardened gears, sintered iron brake linings and a 179 engine with manual transmission.