Market Position:
Essential resource for owners and mechanics of classic Jaguar XK Series sports cars, catering to restoration and ongoing maintenance.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with original Jaguar workshop manuals and other aftermarket repair guides for classic British sports cars. The 'instant download' and 'low price' are key selling points in the digital era.
Key Features:
Comprehensive coverage, factory-level detail, troubleshooting guides, extensive diagrams, digital accessibility.
Value Proposition:
Provides the necessary technical information to maintain, repair, and restore the iconic Jaguar XK Series models, saving time and cost compared to relying solely on specialized shops.
Engine:
Complete service and repair for XK series engines (e.g., 3.4L DOHC Straight-6)
Transmission:
Service and repair for manual transmissions (e.g., Moss gearboxes), overdrive units
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system service, including drums, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, lines
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for lights, ignition, charging system
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component service, alignment, shock absorbers
Steering:
Steering box service, linkage repair, adjustments
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan service and repair
Fuel System:
Carburetor service (e.g., SU carburetors), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance
Chassis Body:
Frame, body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, upholstery
Drive Axle Differential:
Rear axle assembly service, differential overhaul, driveshaft maintenance
Periodic Lubrication:
Detailed lubrication points and recommended schedule
Heating Air Conditioning:
Heater unit service (AC was largely an aftermarket option or very late model addition)
Emission System:
Early emission control systems (if applicable for later models within the range)
Restraint System:
Seat belts (as fitted by factory or dealer)
General Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all systems
Engine Repair:
Engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves)
Transmission Repair:
Gearbox overhaul, clutch service, synchromesh repair
Brake System Repair:
Brake bleeding, component replacement (shoes, pads, drums, discs on later models), hydraulic system repair
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits
Suspension Repair:
Ball joint replacement, bushing replacement, shock absorber installation
Steering System Repair:
Steering column repair, tie rod end replacement
Cooling System Repair:
Water pump seal replacement, radiator repair, thermostat replacement
Fuel System Repair:
Carburetor tuning and rebuilding, fuel pump diaphragm replacement
Chassis Body Repair:
Panel alignment, rust repair guidance, weather stripping replacement
Differential Drive Axle Repair:
Axle bearing replacement, differential gear adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced enthusiasts
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic procedures for mechanical and electrical issues
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and major component overhauls
Specifications:
Extensive technical data, including torque values, clearances, measurements, and tolerances
Engine Type:
Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement Xk120 Xk140:
3,442 cc (3.4 Liters)
Displacement Xk150:
3,800 cc (3.8 Liters) for XK150 3.8, 3,442 cc for XK150 3.4
Bore Stroke 3.4L:
83 mm x 106 mm
Bore Stroke 3.8L:
87 mm x 106 mm
Horsepower Xk120 Std:
160 bhp @ 5,000 rpm
Horsepower Xk120 S:
180 bhp @ 5,300 rpm (Special Equipment)
Horsepower Xk140:
190 bhp @ 5,500 rpm (C-Type head)
Horsepower Xk150 3.4:
210 bhp @ 5,750 rpm (SU carburetors)
Horsepower Xk150 3.8:
250 bhp @ 5,500 rpm (3x SU carburetors, 'S' variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Mechanical Fuel Pump
Carburetion Xk120 Xk140:
Twin SU Carburetors (e.g., H6, HD6)
Carburetion Xk150 3.4:
Twin SU HD6 Carburetors
Carburetion Xk150 3.8:
Triple SU HD8 Carburetors (Standard) or Twin SU HD6 (optional/earlier)
Fuel Type:
Leaded Gasoline (recommended Octane rating for the era)
Wheelbase:
XK120: 102 inches (2,591 mm); XK140: 104 inches (2,642 mm); XK150: 102 inches (2,591 mm)
Length:
Varies by body style, e.g., XK120 OTS approx. 156 inches (3,962 mm)
Width:
Varies by body style, e.g., XK120 OTS approx. 62 inches (1,575 mm)
Height:
Varies by body style, e.g., XK120 OTS approx. 32 inches (813 mm) to top of windscreen
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,700 - 3,200 lbs (1,225 - 1,450 kg) depending on body style and specifications.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically a focus for this era of sports car, but detailed in the manual for service.
Towing Capacity:
Not designed for towing.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, depending on usage. Manual will specify.
Tune Up Interval:
Regular tune-ups (spark plugs, points, timing) recommended annually or every 6,000 miles.
Greasing Points:
Frequent lubrication of chassis points (suspension, steering) typically every 1,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Classic automotive engine oil, e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 30W with appropriate ZDDP additive for flat tappet engines. Manual will specify.
Coolant Type:
Water/Anti-freeze mixture, typically a 50/50 blend for corrosion and freeze protection. Manual to specify specific additives if any.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (check for specific Jaguar recommendation).
Known Issues:
Cylinder head gasket leaks, oil seal leaks (especially crankshaft rear seal), gearbox synchromesh wear, king pin wear, SU carburetor synchronization, wiring harness deterioration.
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Part numbers vary by specific filter manufacturer and model year. The manual will reference Jaguar's original part numbers or equivalent specifications.
Spark Plug Recommendation Example:
Typically Champion N5, N7 or Lodge RN type plugs, manual will provide precise numbers.
Brand Heritage:
Jaguar Cars Limited, a British manufacturer renowned for its luxury sports cars and performance sedans. Founded by Sir William Lyons.
Model Evolution:
The XK Series began with the XK120 (1948), designed to showcase Jaguar's new DOHC engine. It evolved into the XK140 (1954) with improved handling and braking, and finally the XK150 (1957) with a more modern body and increased power options.
Production Locations:
Coventry, England
Production Numbers:
XK120: approx. 7,255; XK140: approx. 3,350; XK150: approx. 2,267. Total for XK series approximately 12,872 units.
Significance:
The XK Series engines powered Jaguar's successful racing efforts, including multiple Le Mans victories, and cemented Jaguar's reputation for performance and style.
