Description:
The Jaguar XK120 was a landmark sports car, a halo product for Jaguar, known for its performance and style, competing with contemporary European sports cars.
Competitors:
Ferrari 166 Inter, Aston Martin DB2, Porsche 356.
Features:
DOHC inline-6 engine, aerodynamic body, excellent performance for its era, luxurious interior.
Engine:
Complete repair, overhaul, tune-ups, lubrication system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor service and adjustment (likely SU carburetors), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank.
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition timing, spark plugs, coil, wiring.
Transmission:
Manual transmission disassembly, assembly, repair, adjustment, clutch service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, generator/alternator (depending on specific year and modifications), lighting, instrumentation, battery.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake drums, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, brake adjustments.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, kingpins, bushings.
Steering:
Steering box, steering linkage, steering column, adjustments.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, interior trim, convertible top mechanism.
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, body mounting.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, pipes, mufflers, replacement.
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, lubrication schedules, fluid level checks, filter replacement.
Tune Ups:
Engine tuning, carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, valve clearance adjustment.
Removal Installation:
Detailed procedures for component removal and installation across all major systems.
Disassembly Assembly:
Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for component disassembly and reassembly.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues and faults.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for the complete overhaul of major components, including the engine.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Jaguar-specific special tools required for certain procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Assumes general automotive knowledge but emphasizes Jaguar-specific aspects.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
3442 cc (211.5 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
83 mm x 105 mm (3.27 in x 4.13 in)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 7:1 to 8:1 (depending on variant and tuning)
Horsepower:
160-180 bhp @ 5200 rpm (depending on carburation and tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 190-210 lb-ft (depending on tuning)
Carburetion:
Typically 2x SU H4 carburetors, later models might have different setups.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (or appropriate leaded gasoline of the era)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system with fan.
Oil Change:
Typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or annually, depending on usage and oil specification.
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of chassis grease points is critical.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or equivalent, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific recommendations based on ambient temperature and original specs).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (ensure it's compatible with older seals).
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 90.
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 90.
Common Problems:
Overheating, oil leaks, wear in kingpins and suspension bushings, carburetor tuning sensitivity, ignition component reliability.
Body Corrosion:
Susceptible to rust, especially in steel panels and chassis components.
Brand Legacy:
Jaguar Cars, founded by Sir William Lyons, was renowned for producing elegant and powerful sports cars.
Series Progression:
The XK120 was followed by the XK140 and XK150, evolving the design and engineering.
Production Years:
1948-1954
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
Body Styles:
Open Two Seater (OTS), Fixed Head Coupe (FHC), Drop Head Coupe (DHC).
