Era:
Classic British Sports Saloon of the late 1950s and 1960s.
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and experienced mechanics.
Competitors:
Competed with other executive saloons of the era such as the Rover P5 and Humber Super Snipe, but offered superior performance and styling.
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, aerodynamic lines combined with powerful straight-six engines, delivering exceptional performance for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
An inexpensive way to keep a classic vehicle in proper working order, providing expert guidance for maintenance and repair.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburettors, fuel pumps), exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, driveshafts, rear axle.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering geometry, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, disc brake overhaul (front and rear), brake fluid, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, starting and charging system (dynamos, regulators), lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting.
Bodywork:
Body structure, doors, windows, trim, interior fittings, bumpers, brightwork.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, lubrication, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed fault diagnosis for all major systems, including electrical gremlins and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of all mechanical and electrical components.
Rebuild:
Comprehensive guide for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.
Depth:
Full Factory Service Manual with detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings, and troubleshooting guides.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of photos, drawings, and detailed illustrations, including enlarged insets for critical parts.
Engine Options:
2.4 Litre (XK3.4), 3.4 Litre (XK3.4), 3.8 Litre (XK3.8) Straight-6
Displacement 2.4:
2483 cc (151.6 cu in)
Displacement 3.4:
3442 cc (210 cu in)
Displacement 3.8:
3781 cc (230.8 cu in)
Horsepower 2.4:
Approx. 120-127 bhp (net)
Horsepower 3.4:
Approx. 210-225 bhp (net)
Horsepower 3.8:
Approx. 220-230 bhp (net)
Torque 3.8:
Approx. 240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (net)
Carburettors:
Typically twin SU Carburettors (e.g., HD6 for 3.4/3.8, H4 for 2.4).
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Light Alloy (Aluminum)
Manual Transmission:
4-speed manual (often with optional overdrive).
Automatic Transmission:
3-speed BorgWarner DG Automatic Transmission
Overdrive:
Available on some manual gearboxes, typically electric overdrive operated by a switch.
Manual Gearbox Oil:
Refer to manual for specific GL specification (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 depending on gear type and age).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Borg Warner Type 3 or Dexron II (check manual for exact specification).
Crash Testing Era:
Not subject to modern crash testing standards.
Brakes:
Four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes (standard on 3.8 and optional/standard on others), offering excellent stopping power for its time.
Suspension Design:
Independent front suspension (double wishbone), live rear axle with leaf springs.
Body Structure:
Integral body and chassis construction (unibody) for improved rigidity and safety.
Seat Belts:
Optional at the time of manufacture, often retrofitted by owners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on usage and oil quality).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug replacement, points gap adjustment, timing check every 6,000 - 10,000 miles.
Major Service:
Carried out at longer intervals, involving checks of all fluids, brakes, suspension, and belts.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40) and API service classification. Modern high-zinc oils (ZDDP additive) are recommended for flat-tappet camshafts.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water. Specific concentration depends on climate.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (check manual for specific recommendation, often Girling fluid was used).
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, boot floor, bulkhead, and front chassis outriggers.
Engine Wear:
Oil leaks from crankshaft seals, worn camshafts and followers, potential head gasket issues.
Electrical Problems:
Aging wiring looms, dynamo/alternator issues, Lucas electrical components known for unreliability in damp conditions.
Suspension Wear:
Worn kingpins, ball joints, and bushings can lead to poor handling and steering.
Manufacturer:
Jaguar Cars Ltd.
Philosophy:
Renowned for producing high-performance sports cars and luxurious saloons with beautiful styling.
Predecessor:
Jaguar Mk 1 (based on a shared chassis, but Mark 2 featured a lengthened wheelbase and improved styling).
Successor:
Jaguar 240/340 (a simplified and de-tuned version), followed by the Jaguar XJ6.
Production Period:
1959-1967
Assembly Location:
Coventry, England
Total Production Approx:
Over 70,000 units (across all engine variants).
Automotive Press:
Widely praised by contemporary automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and styling.
Motorsport Heritage:
The engine and chassis design underpinned successful Jaguar racing cars of the era (e.g., D-Type, E-Type).
Classic Car Status:
Highly regarded as a quintessential classic British sports saloon, often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
