Target Audience:
Jaguar XK Series owners, classic car enthusiasts, professional mechanics, restoration specialists.
Advantage:
Provides essential factory-level technical information for a highly collectible and often complex classic vehicle.
Information Source:
Based on original factory workshop manuals, offering authentic repair procedures.
Usability:
Designed for both experienced mechanics and do-it-yourself enthusiasts with clear, step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations.
Accessibility:
Instant download provides immediate access for on-the-spot repairs or planning.
Model Years Covered:
1948, 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961
Specific Models Covered:
Jaguar XK120 (Fixed Head Coupe, Drophead Coupe, Open Two-Seater), Jaguar XK140 (Fixed Head Coupe, Drophead Coupe, Open Two-Seater), Jaguar XK150 (Fixed Head Coupe, Drophead Coupe, Open Two-Seater), Jaguar XKSS
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
3.4L & 3.8L DOHC Straight-6 (XK Engine family)
Transmission:
Manual (Moss, Jaguar Gearbox), Automatic (Laycock de Normanville Overdrive)
Suspension:
Front: Independent (SS type, torsion bar), Rear: Live Axle (leaf springs)
Brakes:
Front: Disc Brakes (Dunlop), Rear: Drum Brakes
Steering:
Worm and Roller
Electrical:
12V System, Ignition, Lighting, Charging System, Instruments
Fuel System:
Carburetion (SU, Weber), Fuel Pump, Fuel Tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Cooling Fan
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, Pipes, Mufflers
Chassis And Body:
Body Construction, Frame (if applicable), Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel types, Tire sizes, Wheel alignment
Maintenance:
Oil changes, Lubrication, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Coolant flushes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common problems, electrical faults, engine running issues
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuild, Brake system repair, Suspension component replacement
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for complete component disassembly and reassembly
Technical Data And Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, engine timing, electrical wiring diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Image Clarity:
High quality diagrams and instructions, ensuring clear visualization of components and procedures.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Pages can be printed for use in a workshop environment, protecting the digital file.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement Liters Xk120 140:
3.4 Liters (3442 cc)
Displacement Liters Xk150:
3.8 Liters (3781 cc)
Horsepower 3.4L Variant:
Approx. 160-220 bhp (depending on tuning and variant)
Horsepower 3.8L Variant:
Approx. 220-265 bhp (depending on tuning and variant)
Torque 3.4L Variant:
Approx. 190-205 lb-ft
Torque 3.8L Variant:
Approx. 240-260 lb-ft
Carburetion Common:
Dual SU Carburetors (e.g., H6, HD6)
Carburetion Alternative:
Weber Carburetors (on some performance variants)
Gearbox Manufacturer:
Moss (pre-1959), Jaguar (later models)
Type:
Laycock de Normanville Overdrive (available on some models, typically 4-speed manual)
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual for each model and transmission type.
Transmission Fluid:
Likely GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity will be listed, e.g., SAE 90)
Overdrive Fluid:
Specific fluid for Laycock de Normanville overdrive will be detailed.
Wheelbase Common:
Approx. 88 inches (XK120/140), 90 inches (XK150)
Length:
Varies by model variant, typically around 155-165 inches.
Width:
Varies by model variant, typically around 60-65 inches.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3300 lbs (depending on body style and equipment)
Crash Test Standards:
N/A (Vehicles predate modern crash testing standards)
Braking System:
Early XK120/140 had drum brakes, XK140 onwards often featured Dunlop disc brakes on the front, which were a significant safety improvement.
Seat Belts:
Not standard from factory on most models in this era; aftermarket installation often retrofitted.
Audio System:
Original cars typically featured AM radio, if fitted. Modern upgrades are common.
ABS:
Not applicable for this era of vehicle.
Power Steering:
Not standard, but available as an option on later XK140 and XK150 models. Manual will detail its operation if equipped.
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually.
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of chassis components (e.g., kingpins, steering joints) will have specific intervals detailed.
Engine Oil:
Commonly SAE 20W-50 or similar, depending on climate and engine condition. Manual will specify exact grades.
Coolant:
Water-glycol mixture. Specific type and ratio will be detailed.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system configuration (especially with disc brakes).
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common due to age and worn seals/gaskets, particularly around the oil pan and valve covers.
Wiring Harness Deterioration:
Original wiring can become brittle and prone to failure over time, requiring inspection and potential replacement.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, kingpins, and shock absorbers are wear items and may require replacement.
Carburetor Tuning:
SU carburetors require periodic adjustment and rebuild for optimal performance.
Overheating:
Can occur if the cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat) is not properly maintained.
Jaguar Legacy:
Jaguar Cars, founded by Sir William Lyons, has a storied history of producing elegant and high-performance sports cars.
Xk120 Introduction:
Launched in 1948, the XK120 was a revelation with its stunning design and 120 mph top speed, establishing Jaguar's sporting credentials.
Xk140 Updates:
Introduced in 1954, the XK140 offered improved handling, increased power, rack-and-pinion steering, and optional disc brakes.
Xk150 Enhancements:
Launched in 1957, the XK150 featured a modernized body with a full-width grille and integrated headlights, along with a larger 3.8-liter engine option.
Xkss Significance:
A legendary racing variant derived from the D-Type, the XKSS was a road-legal sports car built in very limited numbers.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
Automotive Icon Status:
The entire XK series is considered an automotive icon and highly collectible, lauded for its performance, design, and racing pedigree.
Racing Success:
The XK engine powered numerous racing victories, including Le Mans wins with the C-Type and D-Type sports racers, contributing to the road cars' reputation.
