Positioning:
The Jaguar MK10 (Mark Ten) was positioned as a flagship luxury sedan, offering superior comfort, performance, and styling, directly competing with Rolls-Royce and Bentley models of its era.
Competitors:
Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, Bentley S2/S3 Continental, Mercedes-Benz W112 (300SE), Cadillac Fleetwood Series 75.
Design Philosophy:
A blend of British craftsmanship, powerful performance, and distinctive aerodynamic styling, setting new standards for a large executive car.
Handling Characteristics:
Renowned for its exceptional handling and ride comfort, achieved through its advanced independent suspension system and long wheelbase.
Primary Coverage:
Complete mechanical and electrical repair, service, and maintenance for the Jaguar MK10 (1960 model year).
Secondary Coverage:
Bodywork, chassis, interior trim, and troubleshooting guidance.
Estimated Pages:
~400-500 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Authorized Repair and Service Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine:
3.8L 'XK' inline-six engine (XK150 engine variant), including lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, and exhaust systems. Carburetor tuning (SU HD8).
Transmission:
3-speed Borg-Warner DG automatic transmission, including hydraulic control, torque converter, and gearbox overhaul procedures.
Suspension:
Independent front suspension (double wishbone), independent rear suspension (Jaguar patented 'Salisbury' type with trailing links and Watts linkage), steering system, and shock absorbers.
Brakes:
Girling hydraulic disc brakes all around (front discs inboard, rear discs inboard), including hydraulic circuits, linings, calipers, and master cylinder.
Electrical:
12-volt Lucas electrical system, including generator, battery, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, ignition switch, and wiring diagrams.
Bodywork:
Body shell construction, door mechanisms, glass, trim, and paint recommendations.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, brake fluid checks), lubrication points, and preventative maintenance schedules.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair, radiator and cooling system service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common engine, transmission, braking, and electrical issues with symptom-based solutions.
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for professional technicians and experienced home mechanics. Includes detailed exploded views, torque specifications, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Engine Code:
XK3.8 (9.0:1 compression ratio for most markets)
Displacement:
3781 cc (230.7 cu in)
Horsepower:
220 bhp (SAE gross) at 5500 rpm
Torque:
240 lb-ft (SAE gross) at 3500 rpm
Carburetors:
2 x SU HD8 constant-depression carburetors
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91-98 RON / 87-93 AKI equivalent)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 10 pints (4.7 liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature, consult manual for specifics)
Type:
Borg-Warner DG (variable pitch fluid coupling with planetary gearset)
Type:
4-speed Manual Gearbox with Overdrive (Moss gearbox, less common on MK10)
Automatic Modes:
Variable pitch torque converter for 'Vari-Torque' acceleration and smoothness.
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent Dexron-II) Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Capacity:
Approx. 10 pints (4.7 liters)
Crash Test Results:
No formal crash test ratings available for this era, but designed with a robust chassis and crumple zones.
Braking System:
Girling hydraulic disc brakes on all four wheels, with independent hydraulic circuits for front and rear.
Steering System:
Burman recirculating ball steering system, with optional power steering (Marles hydraulic power steering).
Seat Belts:
Optional front seat belts; rear seat belts were not standard.
Chassis Design:
Integrated monocoque chassis construction for increased rigidity and safety.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Filter Replacement:
Oil filter: every oil change. Air filter: inspect every 6,000 miles, replace as needed.
Ignition Tune Up:
Spark plugs and distributor points: inspect every 6,000 miles, replace as needed. Tune-up generally every 12,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio recommended).
Body Corrosion:
Prone to rust in sills, wheel arches, boot floor, and around windows due to steel construction and age.
Electrical Gremlins:
Lucas electrical components can be temperamental; wiring insulation degradation is common with age.
Carburetor Performance:
SU HD8 carburetors require precise tuning; wear in jet/needle assemblies can affect performance.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers can wear out, affecting ride quality and handling.
Automatic Transmission:
Borg-Warner DG can develop issues with valve body, seals, or clutch packs if not maintained.
Legacy:
Jaguar Cars, founded by Sir William Lyons, has a long-standing reputation for producing beautiful, high-performance sports cars and elegant luxury saloons.
Predecessors:
Successor to the Jaguar Mark IX, sharing powertrain and suspension components with the XK150 sports car.
Body Style Development:
Penned by aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer, featuring a distinctive 'razor edge' styling with characteristic Jaguar grille and quad headlamps.
Production Years:
1959-1961 (MK10)
Production Volume:
Approximately 4,200 units (all MK10 variants).
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
Contemporary Reviews:
Highly praised by automotive journalists for its blend of performance, luxury, and sophisticated handling, often referred to as the 'definitive' Jaguar luxury saloon of its era.
Design Awards:
Recognized for its distinctive and elegant styling, a hallmark of Jaguar design.
