🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

Mark 1

Production Years Covered:

1955-1959

Internal Model Codes:

X66 (for 2.4 Litre), X70 (for 3.4 Litre)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jaguar Mark 1 represented a significant step for Jaguar, moving from their previous elegant but often complex saloons to a more modern, monocoque construction. It was positioned as a premium sports saloon, offering performance and luxury at a competitive price point for its class.

Competitors:

Competed with other premium British saloons of the era such as the Rover P4 and P5, Humber Super Snipe, and to some extent, performance variants of saloon cars from manufacturers like Austin and Wolseley.

Monocoque Construction:

One of Jaguar's first mass-produced cars to utilize unitary (monocoque) body construction, leading to improved rigidity and weight savings over traditional body-on-frame designs.

Xk Engine:

Powered by the legendary Jaguar XK straight-six engine, known for its smooth operation and impressive performance, particularly the larger 3.4 litre variant.

Styling:

Distinctive styling, often referred to as the '2.4 litre' or '3.4 Litre' saloon. Featured a smaller rear window compared to its successor, the Mark 2, which earned it the nickname 'His Majesty's Inspector of Taxes' car among some enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All styles and variants of the Jaguar Mark 1 produced between 1955 and 1959

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but indicative of a comprehensive factory manual)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed coverage of both the 2.4 Litre and 3.4 Litre XK engines, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Transmission:

Comprehensive information on the Moss 4-speed manual gearbox, including clutch, gearbox overhaul, and driveshafts.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension (including torsion bars, leaf springs), steering system (steering box, linkages), and wheel alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Detailed procedures for hydraulic brake system, including master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake shoes, drums/discs (depending on year/spec), and handbrake mechanism.

Electrical System:

Complete coverage including ignition system, lighting, charging system (dynamo), starting system, instrumentation, and wiring diagrams.

Body And Chassis:

Body construction, frame repair, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, and sheet metal work.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan operation.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, carburettors (SU HD6 or Zenith Stromberg depending on configuration), and fuel lines.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, pipes, and mufflers.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication, and fluid checks.

Troubleshooting:

Extensive troubleshooting guides for diagnosing common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major and minor vehicle parts.

Engine Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for complete engine rebuilds, including piston and ring replacement, bearing services, cylinder head work, and valve adjustments.

Transmission Overhaul:

Step-by-step guide to disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling the Moss gearbox.

Electrical Diagnostics:

In-depth diagnostics for electrical issues, supported by detailed wiring diagrams.

Brake System Repair:

Instructions for replacing brake pads/shoes, hydraulic component servicing, and bleeding the brake system.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for both novice DIY enthusiasts and experienced professional mechanics. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete unit overhauls.

Illustrations:

Hundreds of high-quality photos, detailed drawings, and exploded diagrams to guide repairs.

Instruction Format:

Numbered, step-by-step instructions with clear substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings.

Diagrams:

Detailed wiring diagrams integrated with troubleshooting sections for electrical systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Compatible with all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.

Printability:

Printable without any restrictions, allowing users to print specific pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download - Printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - Printable)

Delivery Method:

Instant download link provided on the checkout page after payment.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

Jaguar XK 2.4 Litre (160 bhp)

Engine Type 2:

Jaguar XK 3.4 Litre (210 bhp)

Displacement 1:

2488 cc (151.8 cu in)

Bore Stroke 1:

83 mm x 76.2 mm (3.27 in x 3.00 in)

Compression Ratio 1:

7.5:1 (typical, may vary)

Displacement 2:

3442 cc (210 cu in)

Bore Stroke 2:

83 mm x 104.5 mm (3.27 in x 4.11 in)

Compression Ratio 2:

8.0:1 (typical, may vary)

Carburettors 1:

Twin SU HD6 Carburettors

Carburettors 2:

Twin SU HD6 Carburettors (or later Zenith Stromberg CD variants for some models)

Ignition Type:

Distributor with Coil (e.g., Lucas)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Moss 4-speed manual transmission with non-synchromesh first gear.

Optional Transmission:

Optional Laycock-de-Normanville overdrive (often on 3.4 models) and, later in the production run, the option of an automatic transmission (e.g., BorgWarner DG).

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed in the manual and vary between 2.4 and 3.4 models, and with optional transmissions.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 107 inches (2718 mm)

Overall Length:

Approximately 179.5 inches (4559 mm)

Overall Width:

Approximately 65 inches (1651 mm)

Overall Height:

Approximately 60 inches (1524 mm)

Curb Weight 2.4:

Approximately 3000 lbs (1360 kg)

Curb Weight 3.4:

Approximately 3200 lbs (1450 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specific GVWR detailed in manual, typically around 4000 lbs (1814 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

As a classic car from this era, formal crash test ratings from modern bodies (like NHTSA or Euro NCAP) are not applicable. The manual will detail safety-related components and their maintenance.

Brakes:

Hydraulic disc brakes on the front axle became standard on the 3.4 litre models from 1957 onwards, and were optional on 2.4 litre models. Rear drum brakes.

Suspension:

Independent front suspension with torsion bars for improved handling and ride comfort.

Body Structure:

Monocoque construction contributed to structural integrity. The manual covers body integrity checks and repair.

Seat Belts:

Seat belts were typically an optional extra or retrofitted on these early models. The manual would not inherently cover factory-fitted seat belts as standard.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Typically equipped with period-correct AM radios. Modern aftermarket units are often installed by owners for enhanced functionality.

Speakers:

Basic speaker arrangements, often a single dash-mounted speaker.

Driver Aids:

No modern driver assistance systems (e.g., ABS, traction control, airbags) were standard or commonly available. Focus is on mechanical systems and driver skill.

Connectivity:

No integrated connectivity features. Communication would have been primarily through road feedback and vehicle instrumentation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months. Specific recommendations within the manual should be followed.

Grease Points:

Regular lubrication of suspension and steering components (often weekly or bi-weekly for intensive use, or at service intervals) as per chassis lubrication chart.

Tune Up:

Recommended at intervals specified in the manual, involving spark plug check/replacement, ignition timing, carburettor adjustment, and valve clearance check.

Engine Oil Type:

Multi-viscosity oil, e.g., SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-30 depending on climate and original recommendations. Modern equivalents may be suitable but require verification against the manual's specifications. Historically, straight mineral oils were common.

Coolant:

Water with anti-freeze and anti-corrosion additives. Specific mixture ratios are detailed in the manual.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (check manual for exact type). Must be replaced periodically due to moisture absorption.

Transmission Fluid:

Specific gear oil type (e.g., SAE 90 Hypoid) for the Moss gearbox. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for BorgWarner transmissions.

Differential Oil:

EP (Extreme Pressure) Gear Oil SAE 90.

Body Rust:

Common for cars of this era, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and floor pans. The manual provides guidance on structural integrity and body repair.

Synchromesh Wear:

The non-synchromesh first gear in the Moss gearbox requires careful shifting. Synchromesh rings in higher gears can wear over time, affecting gear changes. The manual details gearbox overhaul procedures.

Oil Leaks:

Potential for oil leaks from engine, gearbox, and differential seals and gaskets. Regular inspection and component replacement as outlined in the manual are key.

Electrical Issues:

Age-related degradation of wiring insulation, contact issues in switches and connectors. Comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are crucial for diagnosis.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Jaguar Cars, founded by Sir William Lyons, had a strong heritage in producing sporty, elegant, and high-performance cars, building on successes with models like the SS Jaguar 100 and XK series sports cars.

Predecessor:

Evolved from the philosophy of the earlier Jaguar 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 Litre saloons but introduced modern unitary construction and updated styling.

Successor:

Succeeded by the Jaguar Mark 2 (1959-1967), which featured a larger rear window, improved braking, and more powerful engine options, addressing some criticisms of the Mark 1's visibility.

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England.

Production Numbers:

Approximately 27,882 units produced in total across both 2.4 and 3.4 litre variants during its production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The Mark 1 was generally well-received by the automotive press for its performance, handling, and styling, despite some criticisms regarding visibility and the gearbox.

Performance Reviews:

Praised for its comfortable ride and powerful engine, especially the 3.4 litre version, which offered performance comparable to more expensive sports cars of the day.

Classic Car Status:

Recognized as a classic and desirable British sports saloon, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for its blend of performance, style, and engineering.