Model Variant:
Covered: XK120, XK140 (All Body Styles: Roadster, Fixed Head Coupe, Drophead Coupe)
Production Years:
1948-1957 (Manual specifically covers 1954-1957 models)
Chassis Codes:
XK120: (e.g., XK120 Roadster, XK120 Fixed Head Coupe, XK120 Drophead Coupe), XK140: (e.g., XK140 Roadster, XK140 SE, XK140 Fixed Head Coupe, XK140 Drophead Coupe)
Engine Codes:
XK Engine (DOHC Inline-6)
Target Audience:
Jaguar XK120 and XK140 owners, classic car enthusiasts, vintage car restorers, independent workshops specializing in classic British sports cars
Manual Advantage:
Provides a complete, all-encompassing resource for 1954-1957 models, enabling DIY repairs and reducing reliance on specialized (and often scarce) expertise for this era of Jaguar
Ease Of Use:
Step-by-step instructions and illustrations (as described in product info) make complex procedures accessible
Cost Savings:
Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, significantly reducing labor costs associated with classic car upkeep
Versatility:
Digital format allows for easy access and portability across multiple devices
Coverage Scope:
Complete Workshop Service and Repair Procedures A-Z
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'Complete' and 'Every repair and service procedure is covered')
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Usage Options:
Printable (single page, chapter, or full manual), Downloadable to tablets and smartphones
Engine:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Gearbox (Manual), Clutch assembly, Drive shafts, Universal joints
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension, Rear suspension, Steering system, Wheel bearings, Shock absorbers
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system (Front and Rear), Brake adjustments, Drum brake overhaul, Master cylinder, Wheel cylinders
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, Lighting system, Ignition switch, Starter motor, Generator/Alternator, Battery, Horn, Instrumentation
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Seats, Interior trim, Glass and seals
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, Lubrication points, Fluid checks and changes, Filter replacements, Tune-up procedures
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization, Ignition timing, Brake adjustments, Clutch free-play adjustment
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (Suitable for amateur and professional mechanics, covering routine maintenance to major engine and chassis rebuilds)
Searchability:
Searchable text content (assuming standard PDF OCR)
Resolution:
High Quality (Suitable for printing)
Binding:
N/A (Downloadable digital file)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Downloadable digital file, user chooses paper type for printing)
Engine Type:
Jaguar XK Inline-6 DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement Xk120:
3442 cc (210 cu in)
Displacement Xk140:
3442 cc (210 cu in) for standard XK140, 3781 cc (231 cu in) for the XK150, but the manual specifies XK140 which typically used the 3.4L. The SE model often had a higher output version of the 3.4L.
Horsepower Xk120:
160-180 bhp (depending on carburetion and tuning)
Horsepower Xk140:
190 bhp for standard XK140, 210 bhp for XK140 SE (Special Equipment)
Torque:
Specific torque figures are less commonly quoted for this era, but the engine was known for strong mid-range pull.
Carburetion Xk120:
Typically twin SU H6 carburetors
Carburetion Xk140:
Typically twin or triple SU carburetors (e.g., twin 1.75" or 2" SU H6, or triple SU carburetors on some SE models)
Fuel Type:
Leaded Gasoline (Minimum 95 Octane recommended for modern use if available, otherwise adjustments may be needed or hardened valve seats installed)
Wheelbase:
XK120: 102 inches (2591 mm); XK140: 104 inches (2642 mm)
Overall Length:
XK120 Roadster: approx. 158 inches (4013 mm); XK140 Roadster: approx. 161 inches (4090 mm)
Curb Weight:
XK120 Roadster: approx. 2,700 lbs (1225 kg); XK140 Roadster: approx. 2,800 lbs (1270 kg) (Varies by body style)
Crash Testing:
No formal crash testing standards existed in the same way as modern vehicles. Safety features were rudimentary.
Braking System:
Hydraulic Drum Brakes (Front and Rear)
Steering Type:
Worm and Roller Steering (Non-assisted)
Seatbelts:
Not standard equipment; often added as an aftermarket upgrade
Safety Glass:
Safety glass was introduced for windscreens in later XK120s and standard on XK140s.
Oil Change:
Recommended every 3,000 miles or 6 months (as per original manuals, modern interpretation may suggest shorter intervals based on usage)
Grease Points:
Regular greasing of suspension and steering components (refer to specific lubrication charts in the manual)
Engine Oil:
Straight-weight SAE 20W-50 or 30 is commonly recommended for the XK engine. Consult the manual for original specifications. Consider engine oil with ZDDP additive for flat-tappet camshaft protection.
Coolant:
Water/Antifreeze mixture (typically 50/50). Original coolant type would have been a less robust formulation. Modern OAT or HOAT antifreeze is recommended.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Note: Original systems may have used less robust fluids; conversion to modern DOT fluids may require flushing and potentially seal inspection/replacement)
Transmission Oil:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90). Avoid GL-5 as it can be corrosive to brass synchros. Consult manual for exact specification.
Rear Axle Oil:
Hypoid gear oil (e.g., SAE 90). Limited slip additive may not be required unless fitted with a specific LSD.
Engine Wear:
Valve guide wear, oil consumption, potential for camshaft wear (especially if not adequately lubricated with ZDDP).
Cooling System:
Radiator core degradation, water pump leaks, thermostat issues.
Brakes:
Seized wheel cylinders, leaks in brake lines, weak brake performance if not properly maintained/rebuilt.
Electrical:
Deteriorated wiring insulation, generator output issues, unreliable switches.
Heritage:
Jaguar Cars Ltd. established a reputation for producing luxurious and high-performance sports cars and saloons. The XK series represented a pinnacle of post-war British automotive engineering and design.
Xk120 To Xk140:
The XK140 was an evolution of the XK120, addressing some of the XK120's handling and braking limitations. It featured a slightly longer wheelbase, improved rack and pinion steering (on some versions), better brakes, and a more powerful engine option (XK140 SE). The styling remained similar, but with subtle updates.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England, United Kingdom
Production Volume:
XK120: ~12,055 units; XK140: ~3,355 units (combined roadster/FHC/DHC)
Motorsport Heritage:
The XK engine and chassis formed the basis for Jaguar's highly successful racing cars (e.g., C-Type, D-Type), cementing its reputation for performance.
Iconic Status:
The XK120 and XK140 are widely recognized as iconic British sports cars, celebrated for their beauty, performance, and lasting design influence.
