Engine:
Detailed coverage of XK I6 engines
Fuel System:
Carburetor systems (SU, Weber), fuel pumps, lines, and tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan
Clutch:
Single dry plate clutch, hydraulic actuation
Transmission:
Manual gearbox (Moss 'crash' gearbox, David Brown gearbox), overdrive options
Propeller Shaft:
Drive shaft and universal joints
Rear Axle:
Salisbury rear axle, differential, half-shafts, hubs
Steering:
Burman recirculating ball steering box, steering column, linkage
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, mufflers
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (wishbones, coil springs, telescopic dampers), rear leaf springs
Brake System:
Girling disc brakes (front and rear), master cylinder, brake lines, servo assistance (optional/standard depending on year/model)
Wheel And Tire:
Wheel types, tire sizes, specifications, hub mounting
Body:
Body structure, panels, doors, windows, trim
Heating And Ac:
Heater system (ventilation), optional air conditioning systems
Windscreen Washer:
Washer bottle, pump, nozzles
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system (dynamos/alternators), instruments, ancillary electrics
Instruments:
Dashboard instrumentation, gauges, warning lights
Special Tools:
Listing and description of specialized tools required for repairs
General Information:
Vehicle identification, general precautions, safety procedures
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Carburetor Tuning:
Adjustment and overhaul of SU carburetors (e.g., H6, HD6)
Transmission Rebuild:
Gearbox disassembly, repair, and adjustment
Brake Bleeding:
Procedure for bleeding hydraulic brake system
Suspension Component Replacement:
Replacement of wishbones, ball joints, dampers
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for electrical faults using wiring diagrams
Body Panel Alignment:
Adjustment of doors, boot lid, bonnet
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for front-end alignment
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for mechanical and electrical systems.
Illustrations:
Includes detailed illustrations, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Specific guides for diagnosing common and uncommon problems.
Engine Family:
Jaguar XK Inline-6
Engine Variants Covered:
2.4L XK I6, 3.4L XK I6, 3.8L XK I6
2.4L Power Output:
Approx. 70 bhp (gross) initially, later revised.
3.4L Power Output:
Approx. 160-180 bhp (gross) depending on state of tune.
3.8L Power Output:
Approx. 220-230 bhp (gross) for standard engine, higher for 'S' variants.
3.8L Torque:
Significant torque output for its era.
Carburetion:
Typically twin SU carburetors (e.g., H6 or HD6) for 3.4L and 3.8L; single or twin SU for 2.4L.
Fuel Type:
Premium leaded gasoline (historically), unleaded requires additive or hardened valve seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, depending on usage. Consult specific manual sections for precise details.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Intervals vary; manual transmissions often checked rather than routinely changed, automatics require regular changes.
Engine Oil:
Historically SAE 20W-50 or 30W, mineral-based oils. Modern synthetic oils are often suitable but compatibility should be checked.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with rust inhibitors. Standard mix of 50/50 water and antifreeze.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific manual for exact recommendation, especially for early models with potential seal compatibility issues).
Gearbox Oil:
GL-4 gear oil for manual transmissions. Specific viscosity grades are detailed in the manual.
Rear Axle Oil:
Hypoid gear oil (GL-5) suitable for limited-slip differentials if fitted, or standard GL-4/GL-5 for open differentials.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common due to age of seals and gaskets. Regular checks are vital.
Cooling System Overheating:
Can occur if cooling system is not maintained, especially in heavy traffic or hot weather.
Carburetor Synchronization:
SU carburetors require periodic synchronization for smooth running and optimal performance.
Moss Gearbox Synchromesh Wear:
Early Moss gearboxes can be 'grindy' if not shifted carefully. Synchro rings can wear over time.
Rust Perforation:
A common issue for classic cars of this era, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and floor pans.
Jaguar Legacy:
Jaguar Cars Ltd. known for sporty luxury sedans and sports cars, built on a foundation of motorsport success with the XK engine.
Mk1 Introduction:
Introduced in 1955 as the Jaguar 2.4 Litre, it was Jaguar's first monocoque chassis car. Later renamed Mark 1 to differentiate from its successor.
Mk2 Introduction:
Launched in 1959 as the Jaguar Mark 2, featuring a longer wheelbase, improved styling, larger engine options (3.4L and 3.8L), and enhanced performance. It became an iconic sports saloon.
Engine Development:
The XK engine, introduced in the XK120, was continuously developed and adapted for Jaguar's saloon cars.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
Key Models Produced:
2.4L, 3.4L, 3.8L, 3.8 'S' variants.