🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XK120, XK140, XK150, Mark VII, Mark VIII, Mark IX

Product Name:

Jaguar XK120 40 50 &MK7 8 9 Workshop Manual

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners, restorers, and mechanics specializing in classic Jaguar XK and Mark series vehicles.

Value Proposition:

Represents the 'best manual available' for these iconic vehicles, offering comprehensive and accurate technical data essential for their upkeep and restoration.

Download Availability:

Instant High-Speed Download.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive coverage for XK120, XK140, XK150 Series sports cars and Mark VII, Mark VIII, Mark IX luxury sedans.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 500+ pages, indicative of a comprehensive workshop manual for multiple models.

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English (assumed, typical for original Jaguar workshop manuals of this era)

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor adjustment and rebuilding), exhaust system, engine mounts, ignition system.

Transmission Systems:

Gearbox (manual and possible automatic options), clutch, driveshaft, differential, rear axle overhaul and maintenance.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front suspension (e.g., wishbones, torsion bars/coil springs), rear suspension (e.g., leaf springs, live axle), steering gear, wheel bearings, shock absorbers.

Braking System:

Hydraulic brake system, drum brakes (likely), possibly early disc brake integration for later models, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, master cylinder and wheel cylinder overhaul.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, ignition coil, distributor, starter motor, dynamo/alternator, battery, dashboard instruments, horn, auxiliary circuits.

Bodywork And Trim:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, convertible top mechanisms (for XK models), interior trim, bumpers, chrome work.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, greasing points, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor synchronization, coolant checks, brake adjustments.

Repair Procedures:

Complete engine rebuilds, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, suspension component replacement, brake system overhaul, electrical component diagnosis and repair, bodywork repair techniques.

Troubleshooting Guidance:

Diagnostic tables for common performance issues, engine misfires, braking problems, electrical faults.

Special Tool Identification:

Listing and descriptions of specialized tools required for specific tasks, torque wrench settings for critical fasteners.

Body Panel Alignment:

Procedures for adjusting doors, bonnet (hood), boot (trunk) lids for proper fit and sealing.

Fuel Tank And Lines:

Removal, cleaning, and inspection of fuel tanks and lines.

Exhaust System Repair:

Mounting, repair, and replacement of exhaust manifolds, pipes, mufflers.

Steering Column And Wheel:

Adjustment and repair of the steering column and wheel assembly.

Instrument Panel Removal And Repair:

Detailed guidance on accessing and servicing dashboard instruments and their associated wiring.

Depth Of Coverage:

Detailed, in-depth technical information suitable for professional mechanics and experienced enthusiasts undertaking full restorations or major repairs.

Engine Rebuilding Detail:

Complete breakdown and reassembly instructions for the entire XK engine, including piston installation, crankshaft bearing replacement, camshaft timing setup, cylinder head reconditioning.

Wiring Diagrams Clarity:

High-quality, legible wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems, essential for troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Quality:

High-resolution PDF ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Printable:

Yes

Binding:

Digital (PDF download, no physical binding)

Digital Format:

PDF

Operating Systems:

Compatible with all versions of Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Required Software:

Adobe Acrobat Reader or compatible PDF viewer.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type Xk:

DOHC Inline-6 (Jaguar XK engine family)

Displacement Xk:

3.4 Litres (3442 cc) for XK120/140; 3.8 Litres (3781 cc) for XK150 and Mark VII/VIII/IX. Some XK120 models may have had earlier 3.4L variants.

Horsepower Xk:

XK120: 160 bhp to 180 bhp (depending on tuning/specifications). XK140: 190 bhp. XK150: 210 bhp (standard) to 250 bhp (S version).

Torque Xk:

Varies by specific engine tune and displacement, generally in the range of 200-260 lb-ft.

Fuel System Xk:

Typically twin SU (or Zenith-Stromberg) carburetors (e.g., 2"/2.5" SU HD6 or H6). Fuel injection was not standard on these models.

Engine Type Mk:

DOHC Inline-6 (Jaguar XK engine family)

Displacement Mk:

3.0 Litres (2985 cc) for Mark VII. 3.4 Litres (3442 cc) for Mark VII (late), Mark VIII, and Mark IX. 3.8 Litres (3781 cc) for later Mark IX.

Horsepower Mk:

Mark VII: ~160 bhp. Mark VIII: ~200 bhp. Mark IX: ~220 bhp.

Fuel System Mk:

Twin SU carburetors (e.g., 1.75"/2.0" SU H4 or HD4).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Gearbox:

4-speed manual gearbox. Early XK120 models had a Moss gearbox (4-speed with synchromesh on 3rd and 4th), later XK120 and XK140 featured full synchromesh 4-speed. XK150 and Mark series also offered 4-speed manual with full synchromesh.

Optional Gearbox:

Optional Laycock de Normanville overdrive on top gear was available on many models. Some later models (especially XK140/150 and Mark series) offered an optional BorgWarner T85 3-speed automatic transmission.

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate clutch (hydraulic actuation).

Rear Axle Type:

Hypoid bevel type semi-floating rear axle with various gear ratios depending on model and intended use.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Xk:

XK120: 102 inches (2591 mm). XK140: 104 inches (2642 mm). XK150: 107 inches (2718 mm).

Wheelbase Mk:

Mark VII: 117 inches (2972 mm). Mark VIII: 117 inches (2972 mm). Mark IX: 117 inches (2972 mm).

Body Styles:

XK Series: Open Two-Seater (OTS), Fixed Head Coupe (FHC), Drop Head Coupe (DHC). Mark Series: Four-Door Saloon (Sedan).

Kerb Weight:

Varies significantly by model and body style, typically ranging from 2,900 lbs (1315 kg) for an XK120 OTS to over 4,000 lbs (1814 kg) for a Mark IX saloon.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Era:

Safety standards were significantly different during the production era. Features were limited compared to modern vehicles.

Active Safety Elements:

Hydraulic drum brakes (later models could have front disc brakes as an option or standard), robust chassis construction for the era.

Passive Safety Elements:

Steel body construction, basic safety glass (not laminated or toughened in all areas initially).

Seat Belts:

Seat belts were not standard equipment when these vehicles were originally sold and would have been an aftermarket addition.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Not applicable in the modern sense. Vehicles were equipped with analogue dashboard instruments (speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, ammeter) and a basic radio as an option.

Driver Assistance Features:

None. Driver assistance technologies were non-existent during the era of these vehicles.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,500 - 3,000 miles (or 6 months), but consult manual for precise Jaguar recommendations of the era.

Greasing Points:

Regular greasing of suspension points, steering joints, and chassis lubrication points (often weekly or monthly depending on usage). Specific intervals detailed in the manual.

Tune Up Frequency:

Recommended tune-ups (ignition timing, carburation, valve clearances) typically every 6,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF/SG or equivalent straight-weight oils (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 30 for warmer climates, SAE 10W-30 for colder) or oils with ZDDP additive for flat-tappet camshaft protection. Manual will specify precise SAE grade.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water. Manual will specify the correct ratio and type.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (ensure it's compatible with older seals).

Gearbox Oil:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 90). Specific grade and quantity in manual.

Common Xk Issues:

Oil leaks (especially from the rear crankshaft seal), carburation tuning difficulties, potential overheating if cooling system is not meticulously maintained, woodruff key failure on crankshaft pulley, kingpin wear, chassis rust (especially in sills and wheel arches).

Common Mk Issues:

Similar to XK series regarding engine and gearbox, plus potential wear in steering components, suspension bush deterioration, and body rust. Electrical system gremlins are common on older vehicles.

Valve Clearances:

Specific cold valve clearances for intake and exhaust will be detailed in the manual, critical for engine performance and longevity.

Ignition Timing:

Static and dynamic ignition timing specifications will be provided, crucial for optimal running.

Carburetor Settings:

Specific jet sizes, needle profiles, and idle speed/mixture settings for SU carburetors will be outlined.

📚 Vehicle History

Founder:

Sir William Lyons.

Brand Philosophy:

"Grace, Space, Pace" - combining elegant design with strong performance.

Xk120 Introduction:

Launched in 1948 at the London Motor Show as a show car to celebrate the new XK engine. Became a production car in 1949.

Xk120 Key Features:

Revolutionary for its time, featuring stunning aerodynamic styling and the potent 3.4L DOHC XK engine. Capable of over 120 mph, hence the name.

Xk140 Introduction:

Evolved from the XK120 in 1954, addressing some of the XK120's shortcomings with improved handling and more powerful engine options.

Xk150 Introduction:

Introduced in 1957, the XK150 featured a more modern, streamlined body with integrated headlamps and a larger 3.8L engine option.

Mk7 Introduction:

Launched in 1951, it was Jaguar's first modern unitary-construction saloon and the first to feature the XK engine.

Mk8 Introduction:

Introduced in 1956, an evolution of the Mark VII with updated styling and the larger 3.4L XK engine.

Mk9 Introduction:

Launched in 1958, featuring the powerful 3.8L XK engine and enhanced luxury features.

Production Span:

XK Series: ~1948-1961. Mark Series: ~1951-1961.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Significance:

The Jaguar XK series (XK120, 140, 150) are universally recognized as design icons and automotive masterpieces, celebrated for their beauty and performance.

Competitive Standing:

Competed effectively against established European sports cars and luxury sedans of the period, often outperforming them at a more accessible price point.

Motorsport Heritage:

The XK engine and chassis formed the basis for highly successful Jaguar D-Types and C-Types, which achieved significant victories in races like Le Mans.