Conference terri::cars_uk

    I have had the oportunity to borrow an XJSC for a bit one summer about
    two years ago...
    
    The ride was realy comfy, as long as you didn't push it round corners
    as it tended to wallow like a speed boat (but tipping the opposite
    way!).
    
    Acceleration was not blistering, but I guess that's a matter of
    opinion - it was fast enough for me!
    
    With the roof on it was pretty quiet, but I don't know how it compares
    with other convertibles - the hard panels probably help a lot.
    
    With the centre roof panels removed and the back still up there is very
    little wind even on the motorway.  With the whole roof down and the
    windows up there was still pretty little wind on the motorway - with
    the windows down it was reasonable, but windy.
    
    Parking was a bit nerve-racking as you can't see where the bonnet or
    sides end, but I guess you can get used to that.
    
    The one I borrowed had a compter thingie in it which was a novelty
    rather than much use - most of the operations duplicated alalog
    instruments.
    
    
    I hope this wets your appetite...
    
    Rob

    Re .123 . Check the price of body panels. Enjoy your nightmare ...
    
    Mike Day
    

    
    RE: 124.
    
    
    Yes, sounds good to me, one point though - You must be REALLY in favour
    for someone to lend an XJSC to you.... no chance of an introduction
    huh?
    
    
    Adam.

    
    Suspect the prices quoted earlier were for the cabriolet, not the
    convertible. The latter is rather more money, even trade.
    
    There is a local place which will do u a convertible conversion
    on XJ6/12 or XJS. Seem cheap, but I have never seen one in the flesh
    so cannot comment on build quality
    
    They are always advertising their latest offerings in Arfur Daley's
    bible, the Thames Valley Auto-trader.
    
    

    
    RE: .127
    
    So .... whats the operational difference between a cabriolet & a
    convertible & what kind of prices have you seen for these beasties ??
    
    
    Cheers....
    
    Adam.

There are some physical differences too.  The most obvious, and the REAL
difference, is that the cabrio has the huge roll bar across the top whereas
the convertible is a true tops-down open car.  The rest is cosmetic but I
would doubt you can buy a convertible for under 25 grand yet, the cabrios
being available from about 12 grand for a decent one.

    The roof in the cabrio roof is in three parts - two panels above the
    seats, and the material back section behind the roll bar.  The
    convertibles have a single roof which folds back electronically.
    
    Rob

    
    
    So, after taking off all you can & folding back (electronically) as
    much as is possible, the only difference between a cabriolet & a
    convertible is a rollbar ?!?
    
    
    C'mon, there's got to be more to justify such a price difference.
    
    
    Any info ?
    
    
    
    
    Adam.
    

Anyone know where I can get right-hand dipping headlamps for a series 3 E-type?

    
    re .13 - dozens of addresses in the US in Hemmings to cover such
    	     items. If they are of any use, I can supply some. 
                                   
    re earlier -  cabriolet/convertible differences already covered.
                  You pay much more money for a newer, prettier, car.
    		  The big Jag dealers in Slough (on the A4 between the
    		  M4 Slough West t/o & Slough Central) have both versions
    		  in stock, so you can examine them in the flesh if
                  you are in that area.
    
    

    
    
    Yes, I reckon thats it. Thanks to all regards info..etc.  My local
    (ish) dealer is Julians in Reading (& do they have some fine motors!)
    I may have a sortie & have a close look over the weekend. I'll update
    this note with anything dazzling.
    
    
    
    Cheers...
    
    Adam.

>>dozens of addresses in the US in Hemmings 

I can't find them!  Not for lamps anyway.   Better get on the phone to some of
the advertisers and see what else they've got.  However I did see E-type bonnets
selling for $2950 - think I'll set up a Martin Robey export agency and make a
bundle!!

    
    Brian -
    
    
    might start with Special Interest Car Parts, Toll free 1 800 851-5600
    
    They list lamps/lenses. Also do a 285 page catalog(ue) for $10 -
    free with any order at the moment
    
    .......and they carry Martin Robey stuff (bonnet @ $2950)

	See note 4.216

    Maybe somebody can help...
    
    I am thinking of buying a Jaguar XJ6, and I was wondering if anybody
    had any comments about the 2.9 litre engine - this could be
    interesting, as tax and insurance should be considerably less than
    on the 4.2 here in Switzerland.
    
    I do know that the 2.9 engine is reputed weak, due to a "holed piston"
    problem, but I was wondering if this is all, and how it compares
    to the 4.2 in terms of economy and performance.
    
    Anybody to help ?
    
    
    Paul 

    In answer - I have an XJ6  2.9 as a lease car. The acceleration
    is nothing special- especially at low revs. But for comfort and
    long journies it is wonderful.
    
    Mail me if you want more info. I am in Ferney this Thurs / Fri !
    
    DejW

    
    Here on Business or pleasure ?
    
    Nigel

    Ah, thanks for the answer, but I realise that you are talking about
    the recent "XJ40" series Jags - I actually was thinking of the "old"
    2.8 model as available in the series 1 and some series 2 cars.
    
    I have looked at quite a few XJ6's these days, and I am not impressed
    by the cars condition or asking prices. I have been leaving my name
    with the main Jaguar dealers, so if they get something I should
    get a ring.
    
    Paul

    As I'm sure everyone knows , the older XJS V12's ie: pre HE were prone
    to fires under the bonnet. Now a friend of mine who has bags of spare
    time, and presumably money, has been restoring the odd car here and
    there and has now decided to restore an XJS ( its a darn sight cheaper
    that a MKII ). He's been a bit concerned about this problem as,
    although the cars need work on it ( nothing much ) he's driving its
    around while his other car is in bits. The main problem seems to be
    that if you don't keep a very close check on the fuel injection pipes
    they begin to weep where the pipe meets the injector. The short term
    answer seems to be to tighten the jubilee clip that keeps it all
    together, that seems to keep things clean for a while. My guess is that
    this pipe work as it gets older needs more attention and it would seem
    reasonable that a weep could very quickly become a trickle closly
    followed by an engine bay fire.
    
    It seemed reasonable to both of us that if the pipe work is getting 
    old then the safest thing to do would be to replace it. But there was
    another ,much more expensive answer. When the HE came out the fuel
    pipework, injectors and fuel rails were changed, along with all the
    pipework fittings. At the cost of about #350 the whole lot could be
    replaced, and would seem to be the complete answer, I've not heard of
    many HE's having a roadside burnup. For the time being the pipework and
    clips are getting replaced, that is untill he's got the time and money
    to replace the injectors etc. 
    
    I guess that he/we have covered all the options to this problem but
    does anybody else have or know of any other solutions to this
    potentialy disasterous problem.
    
    
    If the last MGB he restored is anything to go by the XJS will look
    superb when it is finished.
    
    
    
    any offers greatfully accepted
    
    
    	Garry

    
    Apparently the XJ220 isn't dead!
    
    A&M have an article about the first public test of the V6 Turbo car at
    Snetterton (to be lost as a circuit in the coming years?) in the hands
    of Andy Wallace.
    
    Production is expected to be commenced in 1992 (I think it said) with
    full type-approval achieved by piling the prototypes into large lumps
    of concrete. (any chance that Jags might give me the left overs? :^))
    
    Mark

who said that the xj220 was dead?
Jaguar have taken a huge amount of money in deposits for the cars
orders are being traded in the sunday times etc etc


...art

    
    Obviously it isn't.
    
    Mark
    
    PS Funny that, the Sunday Sport NEVER has orders for the XJ220 being
    traded! :^)

Sport readers obviously have more important things than cold steel (aka cars)
on the mind




		:-)

    Gentle readers,
    
       A colleague of ours here in Paris (France) wants to buy a Jaguar.
    
       The model he wants is a 3.8 Mark II Saloon.  Condition is not 
       important, as he will undertake restoration if need be.
    
       Any one got one?  Or got any ideas of who he should approach?
    
       His name?
    
       	 Jean-Francois GAILLARD @ATY
       	 DTN 858-2615
    
    Regards
    
    Nick

>       A colleague of ours here in Paris (France) wants to buy a Jaguar.
    

you didn't say whether he wanted a left-hand drive, or not....

    Right hand drive preferred. I think.
    
    Nick

 Probably the best bet is to buy in France. Autoretro, and Retro viseur
 usually have these for sale each month. If not, there is a weekly paper
 which gives details of car all over France for sale.

 Don't be tempted to buy cheap in the Uk and import ... they aren't
 cheaper, and it costs a lot to import. 

    Any other XK (120,140,150,C's,D's,E's XKSS (dream on) owners out there?
    
    Gil ('59 XK150)
    
    

 Black 1970 E-type Coupe. Summer car only as these New England winters would 
eat it up in a couple of years.

    I noticed in the network database that there's a node name 'XK150S' in
    spitbrook.... interesting...
    

    Well...it turns out that the owner of node name XK150S is also the
    owner of an XK150 Automobile...
    
    you can set your snooze alarm again.....
    

	I'm looking for some information on Jaguar history for a competition
	to win an XJ12C.  I've got most of the answers but am stuck on a 
	couple.  If anyone could help with the answers or a short loan of
	reference materials,   I'd be very grateful.  And if I win,  I'll take
	you out for a ride in it!!

	What was the last Jaguar-built car to take the XK engine?  I believe 
	the early XJS used this engine.  The other choice is the Daimler 420
	limo which is based on the 420G rolling stock.   Did these use the
	XK engine and were they made more recently thatn the XJS with the XK?

	Which truck manufacturer did Jaguar buy out in 1961? 
	
		Guy,   Dodge,  Seddon-Atkinson?


	Thanks,

		- Don

    Don I think you'll find that XJS's didn't use the XK, they were all
    V12s until the arrival of the 3.6 engine.
    
    I can't really help with the truck company, but Dodge are owned by
    GM, so I doubt it was them. Could it be Seddon-Atkinson?
    
    Mark

	Re: .158

	>Dodge are owned by GM

	Since when??????????

	I thought Dodge has been part of Chrysler corp. for ages.

	- Jyri -

    
    Ah good point. I knew it was one of the American giants (and not Ford).
    
    Still, it's probably not Jaguar! :^)
    
    Mark

	It must be Guy. Guy and Daimler made very similar bus chassis but
I am pretty sure that Daimler/Jaguar took them over at about that time.
I think that Daimler bus/truck must have merged with Leyland a bit later.

	Guy used to make very rugged, but basic "Arab" buses and Daimler
made the CVG6 series. Daimler then brought out the Fleetline in competition
to the Leyland Atlantean. Guy brought out the Wolfrunian but not many were
built. The Fleetline was very successful because of its dropped rear-axel
which permitted flat-floor 13'6" high bodies to be mounted.

	A bit of a diversion, but...

	Re: .161
	>Yes, but don't GM own the Chrysler group?

	Certainly not. The Big Three in the US are GM (Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac,
	Cadillac etc), FoMoCo (Ford, Lincoln, Mercury) and ChryCo (Chrysler,
	Dodge, Plymouth).  

	- Jyri -

	After a trip to the book shop at lunch I can answer my own question!

	Jaguar did buy out Guy (after looking a Lotus) in 1961 and the 
	Daimler 420 limo did use the 4.2 XK engine and was made (at least)
	up to 1990.

	Thanks,

		- Don

    Yes, the XK engine was used in the the XJ6 cars right up to the
    introduction of the "XJ40" cars so I guess that must be 88 or 89.
    
    Paul

    Hi,
    
    Does anyone have information 'bout the XJ13 prototype? Or is there a
    book available?
    
    Sjaak.

    Patrick,
    
    Thanks for replying. The reason why I was asking is that I have a model
    of the XJ13, but not any info on it. I would like to have a book of it
    or at least a book in which it is decsribed.
    
    Unfortunatly my french is not so good.
    
    Sjaak.

	I've got a couple of articles on the XJ13 :

	- German car mag (test drive and pretty pictures)
	- Article about a private reconstruction of an XJ13
	  using a leftover quad-cam V12 that he got from
	  Jaguar and building the body based on pictures of
	  the original XJ13. I seem to remember Jaguar wouldn't
	  give him any help or let him use jaguar badges. He
	  painted it blue in the end - using the Ecurie Ecosse (sp?)
	  racing colours. No test drive, but in English.

	Will mail them to you if you want. mail me on RTOEU::JOLIVER

	Cheers
	Jon

    Thanks Jon,
    
    I growned up near the German border. So German would't be a problem. By
    the way, I always buy books in the 'Art & Car design' serie written by
    Jurgen Lewandowski. These books are in English *and* German.
    
    I will E-mail you my address.
    
    Sjaak.

    
    
    	I have a stack of Jaguar books, I'm sure somewhere in there there's
    	something about the XJ13. I'll have a look over easter and post a
    reply after easter. By the way , all the books are in English.
    
    
    	Garry

    I'm taking a holiday in the U.K this summer. I'll be in London for a week,
Wales for several days, Ireland for a week, and Liverpool/Manchester/midlands
for several days as well.

    I'm interested in any good car museums and in Jaguar cars particularly.
Is there a factory tour of Jaguar Cars? Is there a museum at the factory?

    I've owned and worked on the following over the years:

    1949 MK V, 3.4 litre Drophead 

    1949 MK V, 3.4 litre sedan

    1956 MK VII, 3.4 litre automatic

    1957 MK VII, 3.4 litre standard

    1954 XK120MC, 3.4 litre

    3.4 litre MK2 standard w/ overdrive sedan

    1954 Austin Healey Lemans, 4 cylinder w/ three speed overdrive transmission

    From the above, I have an interest in Jaguar cars. Unfortunately, I didn't 
have the foresight to find a big barn somewhere and save these so I'd
have these at today's prices.

    The most enjoyable of the above were the 1949, MK V, drophead, the XK120MC
the Austin Healey and the MK2 sedan, all for different reasons.

    As my family grew, we needed a more practical means of transportation here
in New England where it's sometimes -20 deg C in the winter with snow storms
of 1 foot or more. Starting a 3.4 litre overhead Jag with SU's is a chore
particularly if it's not garaged.  Leaving it outside in a parking lot at work
was an adventure. The heater was just barely enough to keep the windshield frost
free and the the side curtains on the XK120 were far from leak tight so the 
interior wouldn't get very warm......so the Jaguars went by the wayside.

    There's a small motoring museum at Bourton-on-water that I've seen. it has
a 1949 MK V sedan as well as other cars, motorcycles, signs, and garage stuff.

    I'd appreciate any information and addresses on car museums in the U.K. or 
any race dates on motorsports. 

Harry Parkinson
Ugetit::Parkinson
DTN 264-6760

    
    

    I believe there is a jaguar museum of sort's somewhere in Essex ( no
    jokes please) . The address don't have right now But I think I have it
    at home. Location wise it is east of London. 
    
    
    Other Motoring museum probably worth a visit but not nessesarily jaguar
    are:-
    
    
    	The Donnington Collection.
    
                A collection of mainly single seater racing cars , includes
    	things like a Brabham 'Fan car', many williams, McLarens and so on.
    	The collection is located at the main entrance to the Donnington
        Park  race track.  Best locator is at the rear of the East midlands
        airport. If you have any intrest at all in single seater racing
        this is a must.
    
    
    	The Motor cycle Museum:
    
    		I think it is at the National Exhibition Centre in
       Birmingham . I have been there in passing but never visited.
    	No recomendations.
    
    	The National Motor Museum.
    
    	On the south coast near southampton. At a place called Beaulie,
    	Some intresting vehicles ,but personally I was disapointed.
    
    	I'll try and find the address of the Jaguar place in essex.
    
    
    
    	Garry 
    			

    Garry,
    
    Just a remainder, I'm still interested.
    
    Regards, Sjaak.
    
    ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
            <<< MARVIN::DISK$TOOLS:[NOTES$LIBRARY]CARS_UK.NOTE;1 >>>
                            -< CARS_UK conference >-
================================================================================
Note 64.171                          Jaguar                           171 of 173
COMICS::COOMBER "Inverted Flight Expert"              8 lines  16-APR-1992 14:05
                          -< Have books , will look >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    
    	I have a stack of Jaguar books, I'm sure somewhere in there there's
    	something about the XJ13. I'll have a look over easter and post a
    reply after easter. By the way , all the books are in English.
    
    
    	Garry
    
    ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

    Yesterday, I saw the new XJ-S (from behind!) here in Massachusetts. It
    was a champaign gold, and I must admit, it looked very pretty. The tail
    seems to be squashed flatter, or is it just the narrow tail lights?
    This was a coupe, so it would be interesting to see what the
    convertible looks like.
    
    Anyway, although the new XJ-S is nice, and I suppose Coventry had to do
    something new, I don't think it looks like any real improvement. 
    
    Does anyone know what the changes are? Is there any real mechanical
    difference?
    
    Ray

    Harry,
    
    I've seen Jags in the Coventry Transportation Museum some 10 years ago.
    
    If you're allowed to cross the Channel then I would recommend you stop
    at :
    
    - Le Mans Museum, this is on the 24h circuit site (lots of race cars)
    - Montlhery, look for Roland Urban JAGUAR museum, road N20 (Urban owns
      every model of Jaguar, including some very special ones)
    - Mougins, near Valbonne, holds a British Sports Cars display this
      summer until end of Oct
    
    If you're interested I know more places in Germany, Belgium, Holland,
    Italy, ....  

    
    re a few back..
    
    
    
    	Sorry for not putting the answer in about the xjr13. I looked
    through all my books , the best I could find was some words on what 
    it is/was and a black and white photo. Not a great deal of help. 
    
    
    	But just sitting here I remember seeing a colour picture somewhere,
    I think it was a review or something in MOTOR or something. I'll check
    it out. If it was a magazine I may well have filed it in the bin.
    
    
    re.176
    
    	I have been to the Le Mans museum. I was not overly impressed.
    There are some intresting cars in there, the 917 and the Renualt 2000
    turbo that won Le mans. I thought the majority was a bundle of poorly
    maintained toot. I was supprised to find even a Liger F1 with flat 
    tyres and a corroding gearbox casing. For me Donnington is much better,
    if only for the fact that the cars are well kept and maitained. I think
    at least some of the cars at donnigton run , I can't say I would
    beleive that of many at Le mans.  However , don't let my view put you
    off. If you can go to Le Mans its worth it, there is some much history 
    in just the area and what remains unchanged to make the visit worth it.
    2 years ago you could see what was almost an unchanged pits and
    grandstand , it all looked more or less that same as it did in 1956 (
    I wasn't around the but I have film that old.
    
    
    Garry
    

    re the XJ13.
    
    
    	I failed to find what I thought but putting all the bits together 
        this all I could put together about the chap.
    
    
    
    	This is my version of the details put together.
    
    
    	The XJ13 was an experimental project . The bodywork was designed by
    Malcolm Sayer , the panels were made by Abbey Panels of Coventry. The
    most involved engineers were George Buck who looked after Power units
    and Micheal Kimberly, who later became managing director at Lotus. The
    engine was a 5.0 litre V12 4 OHC producing 500 bhp +. The engine was
    code named 'XJ6'. A road going version of the engine was tested in the
    Mk X but was never commercially available. 
    
    In 1967 the XJ13 made the Guiness book of records for circulating Mira
    (motor industry test track) at 161mph driven by Norman Dewis. Thats
    about all I could find .But In late 1991 Proteus Classic sportscar
    replicas announced they had a replica of the XJ13 under development.
    Proteus Live at Albert st, Little Lever , Bolton Lancs.
    
    
    Garry

    
    The XJ13 was seriously damaged while testing (at MIRA, I think), but
    was later rebuilt and exists today (not sure of it's current location
    or condition, though).
    
    I thought the V12 was the basis for the V12 produced today. Is that
    belief wrong?
    
    Mark

    I've got a picture of the XJ13 at home somewhere. I remember seeing one
    in the flesh at a Jaguar Drivers' meet, at Beaulieu, I think, back in
    the days when I had a MKII
    
    Laurie.

    Well I must admit that a 4 OHC V12 does sound very much like the V12
    that is in use today. But the book that I got that particular
    information said that it was never commercially available. What I
    suspect it means is that particular vairant of the V12 never made the
    commercial market. The V12 is the XJS is in to order of 370BHP so that 
    sort of back's my theory up.
    
    
    Garry

    I've seen the XJ13 at several shows (the rebuild not the original)
    during the last 10 years. It is painted BRG as was the original.

    Thank you all for anticipating on the XJ13 subject. I know a lot more
    now, mostly from the copies I received from Jon Oliver. I keep them
    next to the model which caused all this curiousity.
    
    Regards, Sjaak.

    For those XJ12/XJ-S owners....is the air conditioning really meant to
    be so miserable? It's almost impossible to get a good draught of cold
    air on your body, because the vents are so small and difficult to
    adjust, and the cold air flow never seems to be properly frigid. I've
    just had mine recharged/reconditioned, and although it takes the edge
    off the heat outside, I never really get comfortable.
    
    Tally-ho,
    
    Ray

    
    	Re.172
    
    	Bit late now, but I had a tour of the Browns Lane factory in
    Coventry back in the early  '60s.  Very interesting!  All I did was to
    ring the factory (0203-402121) and ask and went round about a week
    later.  I imagine that they still do such tours.  Give them a ring if
    it isn't too late (for your holiday).  The factory number is
    0203-402121.
    		Malcolm (who owned a 1946 1 1/2 litre for 8 years). 

I have an XJ12 HE circa 1981 which I took off the road 18 months ago to do some
restoration (I dont get much spare time).

The low coolent level indicator lamp is on all of the time although a visual
check shows the cooling system to be full.

Does anyone know where the sensor is located. I cant see anything that on the
radiator that might be it so it has to be on the block or head. There appears to
be a lot of sensors attached to the engine so any assistance in locating the
correct one would be gratefully accepted.

David

    I don't have know but I know a man who has recently restored a V12 xjs.
    He replaced a lot of sensors etc when the car went to lucas to have 
    the fuel injection and tuning sorted out. I need to speak to him so I
    can ask.
    
    
    Garry

    
    There are ,according my friend, 3 water temp sensors. 1 for the fan , 1
    for the guage and finally 1 for the warning light, this by the way is 
    on an xjs. The fan sensor is on the front of the water pump, the others 
    he can't remember , I did catch him with his hands covered in sicoflex
    putting a windscreen in a jap car, so he was not too keen on getting
    the manual out and thumbing through it. I will probably be seeing him
    again next weekend if thats not too far away .
    
    Garry 
    

 
    On my holiday, I went to Coventry in hopes of getting a tour. I had called 
ahead, but got a response that the factory was closed on the day I'd be in the 
area. It seems that they shut production down for one week for fit up and 
tooling changes so the rest of the facility including manufacturing goes on
holiday. Naturally, that was the week I was in the area.

    I took a chance and drove to Coventry to see if there was any chance of a 
tour or a museum that was open.

    When I got to the outskirts of Coventry on A45, I took A46 into Coventry 
and noticed a sign for Jaguar Engineering Facility, near the intersection of
A45 and A46. I followed the signs to the facility and came upon a very large
complex. I went to the security building at the entrance and asked the guard 
if I could tour the Jaguar factory at Brown's Lane. He called Brown's Lane on
the interplant telephone system and made arrangements for me. He also gave me 
a map and directions on how to get to the factory at Brown's Lane.

    The factory is off A4114 which is exit 8 off the ring road around 
Coventry. Brown's Lane is no longer the entrance to the factory complex; 
there's a round about with a new 4 lane road, paid for by Ford at 2 million 
pounds so the back of the factory is now the entrance.

    The guard at the entrance welcomed my wife and I. He called another guard 
who came to the gate in a Ford courtesy van and said even though the factory 
and museum was closed, he would give us a tour. 

    He escorted us for two hours through the museum, turning on lights as we 
went. His name is Phil Cobourne and he was security for the Jaguar park at 
Lemans in 1990 as well as being an eight year employee. He was most helpful, 
well informed, and very courteous to us. Under normal circumstances, tours are 
conducted by retired Jaguar employees who volunteer their services, not the 
security personnel.

    The museum is two floors with cars on the first floor, and a second floor
balcony with sculpture, painting, trophies. awards, etc. 

    The cars, all Jaguars, are not a permanent display, change from time to 
time; some are exchanged with the Coventry Transportation Museum.

    On display, was:

    1. A Swallow side car

    2. A 1938 SS100

    3. A MK IV or MK V sedan, LHD...the bumpers were different than the 1949 
    MK V that I owned some years back so I think it was a MK IV

    4. A XK120 1953 roadster

    5. A XKE 1974 roadster, V12

    6. A 1954 C Jag

    7. A XJ220 

    8. Two XJR 5 factory racers that won the 1991 manufacturer's trophy, # 44
    the Silk Cut car and #2

    All the cars are in top notch condition and well presented. Because there
was no one there except for the guard, myself, and my wife I was allowed to
scrutinize very closely and take all the pictures I wanted, even moving ropes,
etc, that would mess up a clean view of the cars.

    The facility at Brown's Lane is the assembly plant for all Jaguar cars. 
Because Jaguar bought out Daimler, the Daimler plant at Radford has been 
converted to a axles, engines, and transmissions. Bodies are made in Castle 
Bromwich.

    At Brown's Lane, there is a facility for customizing cars from royalty 
to add bullet proofing, bomb protection, special air conditioning and other 
features to standard production cars. Brown's Lane also has a paint 
refinishing line to redo cars that have damaged paint from the production 
process. Brown's Lane also does the the leather matching, cutting and sewing 
along with all the walnut veneer matching, processing and finishing.

    I believe that Phil Cobourne said that the XJ220 is being assembled at 
Abbey Panels where the bodies are made, but I could have be mistaken.

    I believe that Jaguar Cars bought BSA (motorcycles) which had previously 
bought Coventry Climax of 50's and 60's F1 engine fame. I don't know if there's
a facility somewhere that has that business housed in it.

    The Jaguar Engineering facility, outside of Coventry, is actually in 
Whitley and is a former Peugeout facility.

    The contact at Jaguar is Val King at 0203-402121 to get a full tour. She 
is at the reception center which is adjacent to the museum. The reception
center is like a new car showroom and has a new Jaguar with all the brochures,
upholstery samples, paint color panels, and video presentations of Jaguar Cars

    There's also a gift shop with jackets, shirts, etc with various Jaguar car
logo's. It was closed when I was there so I didn't get to see it.

    All in all, it was a most enjoyable 1/2 day for me. I wish the factory had
been open as well as the gift shop. the next time I'm back in Britain, I'll 
make it a point to plan to go to Coventry when the facility is open.

    
    The Daily Mail had an article a couple of weeks back on people who were
    TRYING to get their deposits back on the XJ220. Their argument was that
    they'd been offered a 4WD, V12 car and were getting a RWD, V6, which
    (in their eyes) wasn't quite the wonder Jag they'd put their money on.
    
    Mark

    I got a message from Malcolm Powell about the "MK IV" Jaguar in the
    Jaguar Cars display at Brown's Lane. I owned two MK V's, a drophead and
    a sedan, both 3 1/2 litre, manufactured 1949 thru 1951. The MK VII with
    the DOHC engine started in 1951. I assumed that the similiar looking
    Jagaur sedan, built post WWII, 1946-49 was called a MK IV.
    
    Classic Cars magazine, August 1992. in the Saleroom feature, page 111
    had a 1949 MK IV (2.5 litre) drophead, in showroom condition, sold at
    normal price at Sotheby's auction at Hendon.
    
    A couple of pages later, in the same magazine, the Price Guide has at
    listing for a 1.5 liter, 1945-1949 (Malcolm had one of these), a 2.5
    litre, 1946-1949, and a 3.5 litre, 1946-1949. The MK V 2.5 litre
    drophead and sedan as well as the 3.5 litre are listed as 1949-1951.
    
    Was there a MK IV or not ?????
    
    The sedan in the Jaguar CARS display is definitely different in
    certain detail than my 1949-1951 MK V's. The bumpers front and rear
    on the displayed car were one piece, flat shape while my MK V's had
    two bars on each side connected by and area for the registration tag.
    
    Any help out there??
    
    Harry Parkinson 

    For readers living in France (and nearby)
    
    M6 (TURBO) will show the XJ220, test driven by Jacques Laffitte
    
    	- saturday 26-Sep, 19h10
    	- sunday   27-Sep, 11h10 (repeat of above)

	Has anyone seen any articles or books that cover in
any detail the replacement or repair of the door sills, 
wheel arches and other rust related damage on an XK 150
roadster or similar model? I've got the latest book from
Classic Motorcars (US) entitled " Complete XK Restoration"
which covers the engine well but not much else. I also
have a couple of books that show fine examples of what
its supposed to look like when its done but nothing that
gets into the actual nuts and bolts of getting it there.
	I do have some background in this type of work
and also know a specialist who has restored numerous Jaguars
but I hate picking his brain all the time.

		Thanks in advance.
					Danny

PS: Cross posted Carbuffs and Cars_UK.

    
    Most of the UK classic car magazines have done this area pretty heavily
    over the years. There's not a great deal published on the XK150, as it
    is pretty scarce over here.
    
    There is masses on the E-Type, including a couple of very detailed
    rebuild books that include repairing the inevitable rust in bulkheads/sills.
    
    I'm not enough of a Jag buff to know how similar the lower body
    construction of the XK's & E-Types are. I have my suspicions they are
    similar, but no first-hand knowledge.
    
    
    Colin

    
    	Not a lot of activity in here. Does anybody know where notes .1 to
    .122 went? I'd be interested in hearing of any helpful hints, tips or
    look-out-fors that any of you knowledgeable people out there might care
    to pass on.
    	Cheers,
    	    John A.

      PS. I'm going to get the luminous pink/green shell suit, fake sov'
    rings and rope chains and big cigar next week as I hear these are
    necessities to aid driving.

>    	Not a lot of activity in here. Does anybody know where notes .1 to
>    .122 went?

They're in TIMMII::CARS_UK_ARCHIVE, note 64.
Cheers,

Chris.

What is it about Jaguars...

When they're new they are driven by sniffy exec's...
When they're 2nd hand they're driven by 'Del's' and wide-boys...
When they're old they are driven by yuppy's, media-types, and non-participant
enthusiasts..
And then they become classics, out of the reach of mere mortals.

What other marque inspires this cross-section of owner ???


TKS.

    I have a 1986 Jag VanDenPlas with V12.  That's not the problem.  
    The problem is that at idle the air intake for the right bank is 
    exhibiting *very* little air flow.  Putting your hand in front 
    of the air cleaner opening makes no difference to the idle and 
    you can't feel any suction.  The left bank exhibits what you 
    would expect to feel in terms of suction at the air cleaner.  At 
    anything off idle, the suction is what you would expect to feel 
    for both banks.  Are there any guesses from out there as to what 
    the problem might be?  ......and no smart cracks about Jags 
    either...... :-)
    
    TIA,
    Brian Pituley
    NCP, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
    

    I urgently need to get hold of a model MK2 Jag. I recall that Corgi
    recently released one in their Classic series, but anything similar
    will do; say a Matchbox model or something. Can anyone point me in
    the direction of somewhere that will take a credit card order and post
    one to Belgium?
    
    Cheers, Laurie.

    EWA in New Jersey has many Jag models.  I own a MK II and purchased a
    1/43 scale model for $27.00 (U.S).  They ship worl wide and I will post
    the address and phone number later.

    re 201.
    
    	I realize this reply is quite late, but I just found this note.
    
    	I have the same situation on my XJS V12.  I have always attributed
    it to a leaky extra air valve.  Minor problem, as both intakes roar to
    life off tickover, and idle has always been smooth.
    
    Regards
    Rod
    

    Just an update...I had also posted this in the US-based "Carbuffs" note
    and got a useful reply from there.  An XJ-S owner came up with the info
    that the air cleaner behavior is normal.  It's supposed to do that at
    idle.  I don't really know why but that's life...... :-)  The rough
    idle I have been experiencing has been mostly smoothed out by liberal
    and concentrated application of injector cleaner.
    
    I am just as glad that the injector cleaner seems to have done the
    trick as I didn't look forward to pulling bits of the V-12.....
    
    Brian
    
    PS to Rod Malone.....perhaps we should get together as we *do* live in the
    same city........
                    

    RE .206
    
    Hello Brian,
    
    	That's probably it.  I have only suspected the extra air valve, due
    to my units need to wheeze into life on a cool damp morning.  Other
    than that I have set up the butterfly intake vanes on numerous
    occasion, with the same result of draw on only the one intake.  It may
    have something to do with the sensor located on the left intake throat,
    to keep this unit from delaying the warm up sequence on a cool morning
    start.  At any rate...there does not seem to be any noticeable
    performance degradation.
    	By the way...I found a product several years ago that works
    extrememly well for clearing up the dirty injector/rough idle blues. 
    This was recommended to me by a Porche owner.  It's called Autobahn
    Gasoline Additive, and is available as standard stock from your local
    VW dealer.  They give deals on case-lots(usually 10-15% off).  I have
    found that running a flask through the beast every other fill-up or so
    has virtually eliminated the rough idle problems, especially if you
    stick with the brand name fuels such as Esso/Shell.  Haven't
    particularily had good luck with the third party vendors.  Everytime I
    have had problems, it has always been traced to fuel purchases from one
    of them.  Now that the pumps here have to display the ocatane rating, 
    I suspect things will change.  I had heard a couple of years back from
    a fairly reliable source that a random check of octane ratings at the
    various vendors produced a spread from 65 to 90 (65 this is not an
    error).  By the way, have you tried Mohawk yet.  I would like to
    support their efforts of cleaning up the exhaust by adding ethanol to
    the mix, but have always been leary of trying it out.  Anyone I have
    asked won't really commit themselves to an answer, and asking the
    dealer leaves me with no confidence, as trusting them just is not an
    option. 
    	Yes we ought to get together and discuss the joys and pains of 
    big cat ownership.  I can be reached at 260-5023.
    
    Best Regards
    Rod Malone  

    I'll have to try that injector cleaner....next spring.  I have the car
    in storage under the DEC building here in the NE.  It's a nice 22
    degree environment in which I can start it and drive it around a little
    to keep all the seals wet and bearing lubricated.  It's a reasonable
    cost, too.
    
    Mohawk gas......I haven't tried it.  My father has used it in his
    truck just because there is a Mahawk station close to where he lives. 
    He has found that themilage he gets is about 25% less than with normal,
    non-blended gas.  Based on that testimonial, I will not be putting it
    into my Jag (or anything else, for that matter) in spite of the
    pollution issues.
    
    Right at this point in time I am a bit to busy to get together......but
    I will be in contact with you before the end of the year...
    
    
    Brian Pituley
    

    I am thinking about buying an b reg,3.6 XJS with a manual gearbox 
    with 67,000 miles and about half of that in the service book,and
    the mot's are there so the mileage looks to be geniune.
    
    The bodywork looks o/k,there is some small chips around the headlights
    and side mirror but not drastic.All the tyres are new and alloys are
    in good nick,the electrics are working apart from the passenger side
    mirror.There also appears to be no oil leaks and the sump oil is clean.
    
    When starting up the engine there is briefly a rasping sound then it
    goes away,also the rev counter shows a reading after a few seconds,
    is this normal.
    
    Could anyone help me in the question above and any other problems
    that I should look for.
    
    Also what sort of mpg could I expect and the sort of prices for 
    servicing.
    
    PS.. The car that I may be trading in is an alfa gtv6.
    
                               

Make sure you pay the absolute rock-bottom book price for that car, 
for two reasons. Firstly it does not have an up-to-date service 
record and this really affects it's resale value - these cars need 
regular, dealer-delivered service to give confidence about their 
health. Secondly it has a manual gearbox - these cars are 
notoriously difficult for the trade to shift, very few people want a 
manual box in these cars.

The rasping sound at startup is not unusual, but it should go away 
within a second or two when the oil pressure builds up. The engine 
should immediately settle into an even tickover even when cold, with 
little or no mechanical clatter or rattles. Leave it idling for 5 
mins then gun the throttle and check for excessive blue smoke (there 
will always be some).

Other things to check; power steering, air-con (if it's got it), 
sagging rear suspension, any knocks or clonks from the suspension 
when the corners are bounced, exhaust system leaks/rust, oil and 
coolant leaks - all these things cost a fortune to get sorted out.

MPG: A surprising 30MPG if driven gently, otherwise low 20's.
Service costs: Ask yourself why the service record is not up to 
date!

- John.

    Yesterday I had a drive in an xjs v12.It drove all right and had only
    56k on the clock but had managed to aquire six owners with no service
    history.
    After checking the machine out I decided against it because there was
    numerous leaks aroud the engine and also the power steering was leaking
    and there was various electrical equipment not working.
    It was a pity because the body-work was very good and the auto box was
    working well.
    
    This weekend I will be getting a test drive in a 3.6 with the manual
    gear box and I'll keep you informed as how I got on.
    
                                  Andy. 

	I'm hoping that someone out there can help me with this. The problem
  is the cruise control on my car doesn't work. It appears to power up ok but
  when I try to set a particular speed, nothing happens. Now I realise (with
  my limited car knowledge) that there are a couple of things that could be
  wrong; maybe the controller isn't getting the signal to say it's going over
  30mph, it's getting the signal from the brake all the time, the "set" 
  button's not working, or the set-up that converts the electrical control
  signal to physical movement of the (other) accelerator cable is knackered
  (I'm guessing that this is probably the culprit and is a variable vacuum
  reservoir of some sort?). To check this transducery thing out I was hoping
  to attach a voltmeter across it's input, get myself over 30mph and try
  setting it. If it controls correctly but still doesn't alter the speed,
  chances might be that it's duffed and I can see about getting a new one.
	Now comes the good bit. Does anyone know where any of the parts
  mentioned above (with the exception of the set switch) are located? Had a go
  at trying to trace the second accel cable back but didn't get very far at
  all. It's a 1987 Sovereign, 3.6 Auto.
	
	Many thanks in anticipation,
				John A.

    
    John,
    
    Is this a series 3 car? And does it have an electronic speedo?
    
    Bill

    I decided to buy the xjs 3.6 manual after I had insited that the
    car was put through an mot at an independant garage.The car failed
    on half an exhaust and two front tires,all of these were replaced.
    The car drives well and all looks as it should be,all mots since
    new are there and has had only two owners.
    There has been work done on various things in the last 400 miles
    with the bills totalling 1400 pounds,one of these was a miss-fire
    caused by a loose wire in the engine management which was fixed by
    jaguar.
    It has a working air conditioning and hand brake,also no leaks and 
    fresh oil and water.The service history is up to 48k and the mileage
    is now at 67k,and going by the mots the car only done 2.5k over the
    last year.
    I have also got a years mot and parts warranty and membership of
    the RAC.  

    Anyone had experience setting valves on the V12.  Besides the usual
    dreaded duty of actually getting things cleared out so that you can see
    the valve covers, has anyone actually set the valves?  If so, any
    bug-a-boos I should know about.  I'm thinking of taking a stab at it in
    the fall after I get back from vacation.  I have set valves before on
    many different types of engines, and suspect that once you actually get
    to them, then it's just a matter of routine...valve after valve after
    valve....
    
    
    Regards
    Rod (local garage quotes $1000.00 + parts + scotch)

    As the proud owner of a 1986 VDP, I can only say *DON'T TRY ANYTHING
    WITHOUT A *GOOD* MANUAL AT HAND*.  Having said that, I haven't tried
    adjusting the valves.:-)  I have done a couple of other things on the car
    and have found that with out the manual (Haynes) I would have been
    screwed several times over.  If there's a simple way and a complicated
    way to do anything, Jaguar will have done it the complicated way.  I
    look forward to seeing your progress reports in the fall.
    
    Brian Pituley
    Calgary
    
    PS:  We still haven't managed to get together......
    

    ...Have had the Haynes manual for some time, but recently purchased a
    Jaguar shop and parts manual from XK's Unlimited in California.  The
    two complement one another quite well.  If the drawings in the shop
    manual are short on detail, the parts manual will provide a highly
    detailed exploded view of the assembly. They were not however
    inexpensive.  Topped out over $200.00 including duty, taxes and
    shipping...however quite worth it as far as detail goes IMHO!
    
    
    ...and yes we should get together, being that we work for the same
    company in the same city, just different customers.
    
    
    Regards
    Rod 

    ...Just an informational note to any prospective buyers.  Make sure the
    suspension is sound.  I just had my XJS in for some noise in the rear
    suspension.  After replacing most of what's down there, we moved on
    to the front end, steering rack, lower ball joints, rotors etc. (cost..
    well let's just say a wee bit more than a lot!)  I was expecting this so 
    I have not been overly alarmed, presently have over 70,000 miles with 
    virtually no problems.
    	So, if your planning on purchasing a second hand Jag, check out the
    suspension.  It should make absolutely no noise when coasting.  Try
    gliding down a hill, windows up, and have a listen.  The only thing you
    should here is some air movement by the posts, and tire noise. 
    Anything else should be suspect, and checked over by a mechanic to
    verify integrity.  I cannot stress to strongly, that suspension work on
    this mark is extremely expensive.
    
    
    Rod (In recovery!)
    

    
    Having been the owner of a 3 year old Daimler Sov, ie out of warrenty,
    I can attest to the fact that 'everything' on these beasts are
    expensive, Suspension, Motor, brakes, ashtry emptying and and and .....
                                                       

    
    I'd be extremely disappointed in any car that needed so much work at
    70,000 miles...but I'd be disgusted if it was a Jag...
    
    Mark

	I had a passing fancy to get a Jag for my next car. It has
	however now passed.

	-John (75000 miles in an MR2 and only a failed electric
		aerial to show for it)

    ...in all fairness though, it has 70,000 miles, however it is 12 years
    old.  The biggest problem was with the rubber mounts and bushings. 
    These just plain dry out in our climate (mostly dry).  Couple this with
    the extreme weight of the car, and even layups can have their effect. 
    The IRS in the E's,XJS's, and XJ6 and 12's is a work of art, but there
    is a whole lotta parts down there, and it just doesn't make sense to
    replace the inner bearings, and leave the outers, as the majority of
    the cost is is labor dismantling the IRS.  The IRS works great, and is
    extremely reliable, however if and when it needs work, there are no
    small repairs.
    
    Rod (Mostly recovered)

    
    Re .222
    
    Ah, that doesn't sound quite so bad...
    
    Mark

    I've stripped and rebuilt the IRS from an 'E'-type, and replaced the
    bearings on one from an 'S'-type (they're pretty much the same), and it
    was a *lot* of work. I'm not surprised it cost a lot.
    
    Laurie.

Hi all,

I have a few questions regarding the Mark X's jags...

a) Are they considered rare? 16000 were made , but given I have no idea how 
many of other types of jags were made this doesn't mean much
b) are there any known problems with them?
c) what sort of braking system did they have??
d) what sort of luxury things did they have??..electric windows??..were they
all automatics etc
e) any idea what they cost (In england).
f) are parts available for them???..are they hugely expensive like mist jag
stuff.


I live in Australia and apart from a couple I've seen drive past. I have'nt been
able to dig out any useful info. I saw one that needed a full restoration for 
$A3000.

thanks

Byron

    ...the Jaguar buyers guide is probably a good place to start.  It has
    ratings on the individual models, and does provide some general tips on 
    what to look for.  If it is unavailable at the local bookstore, quite
    often the Public Library will have a worn n' tattered copy.
    	As with all older model purchases, 'ya gets what ya pays fur!' and
    sometimes it's much worse than that.  Keep a close eye out for bodging,
    bailing wire, and misfit parts.  Obtaining original parts can be
    difficult and costly, and in some cases what seems like such an 
    insignificant part may be all but unpurchasable.  As the guide advises,
    make sure you know what you want, and what you are willing to accept
    before looking...cause once you slip behind the wheel, and settle into
    the leather upholstery, common sense can just up and disappear, and you
    may end up purchasing something best left for the breakers.
    	
    
    Regards
    Rod 

    As some of you may know, I've loved Jags for many, many years, and was
    extremely unhappy when I was forced to sell my (5th) MK2 just after I
    got married. Anyway, I was browsing some Jag Web Page or another, and I
    found the vicarage home page. It's been updated and improved since I
    looked about a year ago. All I can say is; I WANT ONE!
    
    Laurie.

     re .-1
    
    ....So, Laurie, have you arranged to have the latest Vicarage Kitty-Kat
    gift wrapped for the Holidays?    
    
    	Had a chance to look at the Vicarage home page, looks pretty
    enticing.  Have you come across any other Web sites that have
    interesting (re. JAG) articles to browse?
    
    
    Rod (in seasonal withdrawal-too cold and too much snow here to let the
    	 cat out)

    A Vicarage? I wish...
    
    There are loads and loads of Jag-related Web Pages; far too many for me
    to list! Here's a few http://altavista.digital.com threw up (it found
    10,000 pages containing the word "jaguar" (you need to exclude "CD" and
    "CPU", and "game"):
    
No Title
   The Jaguar Collection. Founded in 1986, the purpose of the
   Collection is to promote and protect the Jaguar Cars' brand around
   the world. To do this, we sell exclusive gifts and indulgences. Shop
   with us for that special present or simply treat yourself,...
   http://www.collection.co.uk/ - size 2K - 5 Dec 95 

Jaguar Automobiles for Sale
   1974 Jaguar XKE III V 12. Look at the perfect condition of the 1974
   model XKE III. Only 49,200 pampered miles have been travelled in
   this motorcar. Silver exterior with black interior make this car
   consistantly in vogue. A genuine must see. Call us today...
   http://vmarketing.com/car/jaguar/jag2.html - size 1K - 24 Apr 95 

OverDrive - Jaguar
   Jaguar Business Card Holder. One of the most popular and
   recognizable symbols in the world of motoring can be in your hand
   today. The polished-brass business card holder with the leaping
   Jaguar will be in your palm. (#530-2101) Lapel Pin $14.95. Acura |...
   http://www.spromo.com/spc/overdrive/jaguar/jagch.html - size 1K -
   31 Oct 95 

Classic Restoration
   Restoring your Classic. Jaguar.
   http://www.bid.com/bid/restore.html - size 167 bytes - 29 Jul 95 

Jaguar XJ Sedan
   Exceptional Merit Award Winner. JAGUAR XJ SEDAN.
   Comments: "This new Jaguar XJR, with its combination of muscular
   elegance backed up by as potent a mechanical package as was ever
   fitted with four doors, may well turn out to be the pivotal vehicle in...
   http://www.papyrus.com/robb/caryjag.htm - size 3K - 14 Aug 95 

JAGUAR ANNOUNCES AGGRESSIVE 1996 MODEL YEAR
PRICING STRATEGY
   JAGUAR ANNOUNCES AGGRESSIVE 1996 MODEL YEAR
   PRICING STRATEGY. Jaguar Cars announced it will price its new,
   long-wheelbase Vanden Plas only $1,520 above the shorter 1995
   model. The company also adopted an aggressive pricing policy for its
   carryover models....
   http://www.uni-link.com/jaguar2.htm - size 1K - 20 Nov 95 

(sold) 1970 Jaguar E-Type Roadster
   sold) 1970 Jaguar E-Type Roadster. 4.2 liter, 4-speed, tan leather
   upholstery, wire wheels, original drivetrain, original radio. 97k miles.
   Sold! I bought this car from the second owner. It was registered and
   occasionally driven. I put about 4000 miles on...
   http://www.sturtevant.com/reed/jaguar.htm - size 797 bytes - 15 Oct
   95 

    Sooo!
    
    	The new XJS replacements out (XK*). Still too secretive at th is
    time, to obtain photos of the engine compartment.  Outside looks,
    well...
    
    	...I don't know exactly how to state this with out offending those 
    that may find it rather striking...but...it looks a lot like a bigger
    version of the new Ford Taurus.  I suspect that given enough time and
    some extra fiddle plates, one could use the standard Taurus body
    panels, and produce a reasonably close replica.
    
    ...just my opinion of course, I'm not saying that it looks bad, just
    that it pretty much resembles most other things on the road, and the
    more than casual similarities with the Taurus make me suspect that
    common styling department specifications have dictated the final
    design.
    
    ...Think I'll just hang onto my pre-Ford XJS for some time yet.
    
    
    Regards
    Rod

    
    
    I saw an XK8 (looks like a DB7 at the front?) on the M40 near Warwick
    the other day. I thought side/front views were ok but the back looked
    stupid. The wheels didn't fill the wheel arches and made the car
    look very bulbous.
    
    Richard.