Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians, Jaguar enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners of Jaguar S-Type 3.8 litre models from 1960-1968.
Manual Advantage:
Offers the completeness of an official factory manual, accessible instantly via digital download, providing a cost-effective and time-saving alternative to physical manuals or scattered information.
Instructional Style:
Step-by-step instructions with high-quality diagrams and exploded views, designed for clarity and ease of understanding.
Download Benefit:
Instant download provides immediate access to repair information, eliminating shipping delays and allowing for prompt vehicle servicing.
Engine:
Detailed procedures for disassembly, assembly, overhaul, tuning, and troubleshooting of the 3.8 litre XK engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely SU HD6 or Stromberg) adjustment, rebuilding, and fuel pump maintenance.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, and coolant flow diagnosis and repair.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coil, distributor (Lucas), timing adjustment, and electrical testing.
Transmission:
Details on the manual and automatic (likely Borg-Warner DG) transmission systems, including overhaul and adjustment.
Drivetrain:
Propeller shaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly (Salisbury or Jaguar's own design), differential, and half-shafts.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (wishbones, kingpins, coil springs, telescopic dampers) and rear live axle suspension (leaf springs, radius arms, Panhard rod).
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system (likely Marles or Burman type), steering rack/box, column, and linkages.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (Dunlop, Girling, or Lockheed) and rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, and parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, lighting, gauges, switches, and accessories.
Bodywork:
Body shell construction, panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, and weatherstripping.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and tune-up procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, and fault finding.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, overhaul, and repair of all major vehicle systems.
Disassembly:
Detailed procedures for removing and disassembling all major components for inspection and service.
Assembly:
Comprehensive guidance on reassembling components with correct procedures and torque specifications.
Cleaning Reinstallation:
Instructions for cleaning parts prior to reassembly and correct reinstallation methods.
Depth:
Suitable for professional technicians and knowledgeable DIY mechanics. Covers fundamental to advanced repair and maintenance.
Engine Code:
Jaguar XK 3.8 litre (various iterations: XK3.8, XK3.8S)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 114.4 mm (approximately)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 8.0:1 or 7.5:1 (depending on variant, manual will specify).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 210-220 bhp (gross) at 5500 rpm (depending on variant, manual will specify).
Torque Range:
Approximately 240-250 lb-ft (gross) at 3000-3500 rpm (depending on variant, manual will specify).
Fuel Delivery:
Twin SU HD6 carburetors (most common for 3.8 litre S-Type) or possibly Stromberg downdraft carburetors on later models. Manual will detail adjustments and rebuild.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (with octane rating appropriate for the era, likely 95-98 RON).
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 13 Imperial pints (6.25 litres) including filter. Manual will confirm exact capacity and oil type.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 16-18 Imperial pints (7.3-8.2 litres). Manual will specify coolant type and mixture.
Crash Safety Era:
Safety standards and testing protocols were significantly different in the 1960s compared to modern standards. The manual will not contain modern NCAP or IIHS ratings.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (standard), rear drum brakes. Dual circuit hydraulic system for increased safety.
Steering:
Power-assisted steering for improved control and reduced driver fatigue.
Seat Belts:
Lap belts were commonly fitted, with three-point belts becoming more prevalent towards the end of the production run. The manual may detail installation points.
Body Structure:
Unitary body construction with integrated chassis frame providing structural integrity for its era.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months. Manual will provide detailed recommendations.
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of suspension components, steering joints, and driveshaft U-joints as per service schedule. Manual will detail specific points and intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Regular checks of ignition timing, carburetor settings, and valve clearances are crucial for optimal performance. Manual will specify intervals and procedures.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG equivalent, SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 recommended for engines of this era. Manual will confirm viscosity and specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio. Manual will specify type and concentration.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid. Manual will specify the correct type and recommended replacement intervals.
Carburetor Idling:
SU carburetors can be prone to fluctuating or rough idling if not properly adjusted or if jets/needles are worn.
Overdrive Engagement:
The Laycock de Normanville overdrive can sometimes exhibit hesitant engagement or disengagement if the vacuum modulator or solenoid is faulty.
Steering Wander:
Wear in steering rack components, kingpins, or worn bushes can lead to imprecise steering and 'wander'.
Cooling System Leaks:
Aging hoses, gaskets, and radiator cores can lead to coolant leaks. Overheating can also be caused by a worn water pump or a blocked radiator.
Jaguar Legacy:
Jaguar Cars, known for its blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive styling, building upon the success of the XK engine and previous models like the Mark II.
S Type Introduction:
The S-Type was introduced in 1963 as a more luxurious and spacious alternative to the Mark 2, featuring a longer wheelbase and distinctive styling cues. It was positioned between the Mark 2 and the larger Mark X (420G).
Production Period:
1963-1968. The manual covers this entire production span.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
