Status:
Iconic sports car, highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts
Key Rivals:
Ferrari 250 GT, Aston Martin DB5, Porsche 911
Design:
Legendary styling by Malcolm Sayer, considered one of the most beautiful cars ever made
Performance:
Renowned for its performance, handling, and braking for its era
Benefit:
Essential resource for owners undertaking restoration, maintenance, or repair of a classic E-Type
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, rebuild procedures, component identification, timing, lubrication
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning and rebuild (e.g., SU, Zenith-Stromberg), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow, heater matrix integration
Drivetrain Clutch:
Clutch assembly, hydraulic actuation, clutch plate, pressure plate, flywheel
Drivetrain Gearbox:
Manual gearbox overhaul (e.g., Moss gearbox, Jaguar 4-speed synchromesh), internal components, gear selection
Drivetrain Propeller Shaft:
Propeller shaft balancing, universal joints, center bearing
Drivetrain Rear Axle:
Differential overhaul, axle casing, half-shafts, bearings, lubrication
Steering:
Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering system (if applicable)
Suspension Front:
Independent front suspension, wishbones, torsion bars, kingpins, shock absorbers, alignment
Suspension Rear:
Independent rear suspension (IRS), driveshafts, suspension arms, trailing arms, shock absorbers, alignment
Brakes:
Disc brake systems (including inboard rear discs on early models), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, pads, fluid specifications
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire fitment, bolt patterns, inflation pressures
Bodywork And Exhaust:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window operation, interior trim, exhaust system routing and components
Heating And Windscreen:
Heating system operation, demisting, windscreen wiper mechanisms, washer systems
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator/dynamo, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, switches, fuses
Maintenance Tasks:
Routine servicing, fluid changes, lubrication points, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based guides
Repair Operations:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed engine disassembly, inspection, machining recommendations, and reassembly
Suspension Geometry:
Alignment specifications and adjustment procedures
Carburetor Calibration:
Specific settings and adjustments for various carburetor models used
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts
Part Identification:
Illustrations and part numbers for component identification (integrated with parts manual aspect)
Type Series1 Early:
4-Speed Manual (Moss Gearbox - non-synchro 1st gear)
Type Series1 Late Series2:
4-Speed Manual (Jaguar Synchromesh - full synchro)
Type Series3:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag)
Type Series1 Late Series2:
3-Speed Automatic (e.g., Borg-Warner DG)
Type Series3:
3-Speed Automatic (e.g., Borg-Warner BW12)
Gear Ratios:
Detailed ratios provided for each gearbox type and model year variant.
Fluid Type:
Specific gear oil grades (e.g., GL-4) for manual transmissions and ATF for automatics are detailed.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, though high-performance engines may benefit from more frequent changes. Manual will specify.
Tune Up:
Spark plug replacement, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment at intervals specified in the manual (e.g., 6,000 - 12,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 1-2 years for optimal cooling system performance.
Engine Oil:
Viscosity grades like 20W-50 or 10W-30 depending on climate and engine condition. Specific Jaguar recommendations or equivalent available in manual.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixture, capacity specified by body style and engine.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (ensure compatibility with seals).
Rust Corrosion:
Prone to rust in sills, wheel arches, and floor pans due to age and construction.
Carburetor Synchronization:
Requires regular synchronization of multiple carburetors for optimal running.
Irs Bushings:
Wear in the rear independent suspension bushings can lead to handling issues.
Cooling System Leaks:
Potential for leaks from hoses, radiator, or water pump over time.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connections can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Oil Filter Part Numbers:
Specific part numbers for oil filters (e.g., Fram PH2, Purolator L10241, or equivalents) will be detailed.
Fuel Filter Part Numbers:
Specific part numbers for fuel filters will be detailed.
Manufacturer:
Jaguar Cars Ltd., a British luxury and sports car manufacturer with a rich racing pedigree.
Series 1:
Launched 1961, characterized by covered headlights, louvred bonnet, and basic interior. 3.8L engine, later 4.2L. Available as Roadster, Coupe, and 2+2 Coupe.
Series 2:
Launched 1968, featuring open headlights, revised grille, improved braking, and updated interior. Continued with 4.2L engine.
Series 3:
Launched 1971, introduced the V12 engine, extended wheelbase for the 2+2, and flared wheel arches. Distinctive Series 3 styling cues.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
Total Production Estimate:
Over 70,000 units across all series.