🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XK120

Manual Product Name:

Jaguar Master Workshop Repair Manual MKVII & XK120

Vehicle Chassis Codes Mkvii:

MkVii Series I, Series II, Series III

Vehicle Chassis Codes Xk120:

XK120 (OTS, DHC, FHC)

👋 Introduction

Era Target Market:

Luxury Grand Tourers and Sports Cars of the post-war era.

Predecessors Contemporaries:

Competed with high-end marques like Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and performance models from Mercedes-Benz and Alfa Romeo.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on performance, luxury, and elegant styling. Often featuring advanced engineering for their time.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, factory-level technical information essential for restoration, maintenance, and repair of these classic Jaguars.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive workshop and repair procedures for Jaguar MKVII and XK120 models.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (exact count not specified, but typical for master workshop manuals covering multiple variants).

Manual Type:

Master Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English (assumed primary language for Jaguar documentation of this era).

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carburetor and early injection if applicable), ignition systems, exhaust.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, driveshaft, differential, axle ratios.

Suspension Steering Braking:

Front and rear suspension (independent/solid axle), steering gearbox, hydraulic systems, brake drums/discs, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, hydraulic lines, parking brake.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging system (generator/alternator), instrumentation, accessories, early radio systems.

Bodywork Chassis:

Body construction, panel repair, doors, windows, trim, chassis lubrication, jacking points, mounting points.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine servicing, lubrication schedules, filter changes, fluid level checks, ignition timing adjustments, carburetor adjustments.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common running issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems. Symptom-based diagnosis.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension repairs, electrical component replacement.

Special Tools Equipment:

Identification and usage of specialized Jaguar tools required for specific repair operations.

Depth Of Coverage:

In-depth workshop level, suitable for professional mechanics and skilled enthusiasts. Covers complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major components.

Accuracy Level:

Authoritative and factory-approved procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if scanned from an original digital source, or OCR processed.

Printability:

Yes

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Operating Systems:

Windows, macOS, Linux

Software Requirements:

Adobe Acrobat Reader or compatible PDF viewer.

Download Method:

Instant High Speed Download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type Mkvii:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement Mkvii:

3.4 Liters (3442 cc) in early models, later up to 3.8 Liters (3781 cc)

Bore Stroke Mkvii:

3.4L: 3.0625 x 4.125 inches (77.8 mm x 104.8 mm); 3.8L: 3.4375 x 4.125 inches (87.3 mm x 104.8 mm)

Horsepower Mkvii 3.4L:

Approximately 160-180 bhp @ 5000 rpm (variant dependent)

Torque Mkvii 3.4L:

Approximately 200-215 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm (variant dependent)

Fuel System Mkvii:

Twin SU Carburetors (e.g., H6 or HD6 variants)

Engine Type Xk120:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC

Displacement Xk120:

3.4 Liters (3442 cc)

Bore Stroke Xk120:

3.0625 x 4.125 inches (77.8 mm x 104.8 mm)

Horsepower Xk120:

160 bhp @ 5000 rpm (Standard), 180 bhp @ 5500 rpm (Optional 'S' Type)

Torque Xk120:

195 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Standard), 200 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm ('S' Type)

Fuel System Xk120:

Twin SU Carburetors (H6 variants)

Top Speed Xk120:

Over 120 mph (193 km/h)

Acceleration 0 60 Xk120:

Approx. 8.0 - 9.0 seconds (depending on variant and conditions)

Fuel Type Recommendation:

Leaded or low-lead gasoline with octane rating appropriate for the era (e.g., 95-100 RON). Octane booster or lead substitute may be recommended for modern fuels.

Oil Type Recommendation:

High-quality mineral oil, SAE 20W-50 or similar, often with zinc additive (ZDDP) for flat tappet camshafts.

Coolant Type Recommendation:

Water/Ethylene Glycol mix (50/50) with anti-corrosion inhibitors.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional Mkvii:

Optional Moss 4-speed manual with overdrive (Laycock de Normanville) on some MKVII models.

Gearbox Type Early:

Moss Gearbox (known for its 'crude' but effective design, sequential shifting pattern).

Gearbox Oil Type:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 80 or 90 viscosity (e.g., EP 90).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Mkvii:

110 inches (2794 mm)

Length Mkvii:

Approximately 195 inches (4953 mm)

Width Mkvii:

Approximately 70 inches (1778 mm)

Height Mkvii:

Approximately 63 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase Xk120:

102 inches (2591 mm)

Length Xk120:

167.5 inches (4255 mm) (OTS), 173.5 inches (4407 mm) (FHC)

Width Xk120:

62 inches (1575 mm)

Height Xk120:

51 inches (1295 mm) (OTS), 52 inches (1320 mm) (FHC)

Curb Weight Mkvii:

Approximately 3500-3800 lbs (1588-1724 kg)

Curb Weight Xk120:

Approximately 2700-3100 lbs (1225-1406 kg) (depending on body style)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Mkvii:

Not specified, but implied to be suitable for 4-5 passengers and luggage.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

Typically 5 x 4.5 inches (114.3 mm) or similar Jaguar standard for the era.

Wheel Size:

16 inch diameter wheels common.

Tire Size Recommendation:

e.g., 6.50-16 or 6.70-16 bias-ply tires.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings available for vehicles of this era by modern standards.

Active Safety Features:

Powerful hydraulic drum (early XK120) or disc (later models and MKVII) brakes, responsive steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Robust body-on-frame construction (typical for era), safety glass (laminated windshield often standard), lap belts (often optional or added later).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems Era:

Period-appropriate analogue radio systems (often optional). No integrated infotainment systems as understood today.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern definition. Focus was on mechanical performance and driver control.

Connectivity Options:

Not applicable. Cars of this era featured basic electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Grease Points Lubrication:

Check and lubricate all chassis grease points every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or as specified in the manual.

Tune Up Schedule:

Regular checks for ignition timing, carburetor settings, valve clearances usually every 6,000 - 12,000 miles (9,600 - 19,200 km).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years or as condition dictates, due to hygroscopic nature of brake fluid.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 16-20 pints (7.5-9.5 liters), depending on radiator and engine variant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (Glycol-based).

Clutch Fluid Type:

Typically the same hydraulic fluid as the brake system.

Common Wear Items:

Carburetor synchronization and jet wear, ignition coil and distributor components, kingpins and bushings in suspension, steering rack wear, cooling system hoses and radiator integrity, clutch friction plate and release bearing.

Electrical System Quirks:

Wiring harness degradation, Lucas electrics ('Prince of Darkness') can be prone to failure if not maintained. Generator charging issues.

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some engines, particularly with high mileage, may consume oil due to worn piston rings, valve guides, or crankshaft seals.

Chassis Rust Corrosion:

Vulnerable areas include outriggers, sills, floor pans, and wheel arches, especially in areas exposed to salt or moisture.

Oil Filter Example Part Number:

Likely requires a cartridge-type or spin-on filter compatible with the engine block. Examples might include Fram PH1 or equivalent WIX/Mann filters.

Air Filter Example Part Number:

Specific to the SU carburetor models; often a foam or mesh element.

📚 Vehicle History

Jaguar Founding Principles:

Founded by Sir William Lyons, focused on 'Grace, Pace, and Space' – blending performance with luxurious comfort and distinctive styling.

Mkvii Introduction Year:

1951

Mkvii Development Context:

Designed to compete in the American market as a larger, more luxurious sedan than previous Jaguar models, intended for high-speed touring.

Mkvii Variants:

Series I, II, and III, with incremental updates to engine size (3.4L to 3.8L), features, and styling cues.

Xk120 Introduction Year:

1948

Xk120 Development Context:

Originally conceived as a show car for the 1948 London Motor Show, its stunning design and performance capabilities led to production. Named for its 120 mph top speed.

Xk120 Body Styles:

Open Two Seater (OTS), Fixed Head Coupe (FHC), Drop Head Coupe (DHC).

Production Period Mkvii:

1951-1956

Production Period Xk120:

1948-1954

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Xk120 Racing Success:

The XK120 and its derivatives (XK140, XKSS) achieved significant success in motorsport, including class wins at Le Mans, Mille Miglia, and Carrera Panamericana, reinforcing Jaguar's performance image.

Mkvii Racing Success:

While primarily a road car, the MKVII chassis and engine formed the basis for successful Jaguar works rally cars and endurance racers (e.g., MkVII 'Works Rally Car').

Press Reviews Era:

Universally praised by automotive press of the time for their performance, styling, and luxury appointments, particularly in export markets.

Manufacturer Certification:

Workshop manuals are derived from official Jaguar service documentation.