🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

E-Type Series III

Generation:

Series III

Production Years:

1971-1974

Engine Variant:

V12

👋 Introduction

Historical Significance:

The Jaguar E-Type Series III represents the final evolution of one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced, transitioning to the larger V12 engine and a longer wheelbase, aimed at the grand touring market while retaining its legendary performance and style.

Competitors Era:

Competed against other luxury grand tourers and sports cars of its era, such as the Ferrari Daytona, Aston Martin DBS, Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, and Maserati Ghibli.

Design Philosophy:

A blend of potent performance from its V12 engine, refined handling, and unmistakable aerodynamic styling, embodying the spirit of a true British GT.

Target User:

Enthusiasts, owners, and professional mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, and restore their Jaguar E-Type Series III V12.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Maintenance, and Repair

Scope:

Comprehensive for Series III V12 models

Estimated Pages:

Varies based on specific edition, but generally extensive for full factory manuals.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

V12 Engine (5.3L / 326ci), including cooling, lubrication, fuel injection (Bosch D-Jetronic), ignition (Lucas electronic), and emissions control systems.

Transmission:

Manual (Moss Gearbox) and Automatic (TorqueFlite 3-Speed Chrysler A727) transmissions: overhaul, adjustment, and repair.

Drivetrain:

Clutch, driveshaft, differential, half-shafts, universal joints, and rear axle assembly.

Suspension:

Independent front suspension (torsion bars, wishbones, anti-roll bar), independent rear suspension (trailing arms, radius arms, adjustable suspension arms), shock absorbers, springs.

Steering:

Rack and pinion steering system, power steering pump, hydraulic lines, steering column, and linkage.

Brakes:

Girling disc brakes (all-around), hydraulic system, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake.

Electrical:

12V electrical system, wiring diagrams, alternator (Lucas), starter motor (Lucas), battery, lighting (headlights, tail lights, interior), instrumentation, wipers, horn, heating system controls.

Fuel System:

Fuel tanks, fuel pumps (electric), fuel lines, fuel filters, Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection system components (ECU, injectors, air flow meter, pressure regulator).

Body And Chassis:

Chassis frame, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, seats, convertible top mechanism (if applicable).

Heating And Ventilation:

Heater core, blower motor, ducting, controls.

Maintenance:

Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, coolant checks, ignition timing adjustments, carburetor/fuel injection adjustments, brake bleeding, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical issues, braking problems, transmission shifting, and suspension noise.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation of all major systems.

Rebuilds:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including specifications for machining and tolerances.

Adjustments:

Valve lash adjustments, idle speed, mixture control, clutch engagement, parking brake adjustment.

Depth:

Extensive, covering from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic charts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Printability:

Full printable, allowing users to print individual sections or the entire manual.

Zoom Capability:

Yes, allows for zooming in on diagrams and text.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Paper Emulation:

N/A (Digital Download), but designed for easy on-screen viewing and printing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

104, 106

Engine Type:

Overhead Camshaft (OHC) V12

Displacement:

5343 cc (5.3 Liters / 326 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

85.7 mm x 77.0 mm (3.375 in x 3.03 in)

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (standard)

Horsepower:

Approx. 272 hp (SAE Gross) @ 5800 RPM (specifications can vary slightly by market and emissions controls).

Torque:

Approx. 300 lb-ft (SAE Gross) @ 3600 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch D-Jetronic electronic fuel injection (typically 4 x 2 Stromberg CD 175 carburetors were an option or phased out/replaced in some markets).

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating: 91-93 RON / 9.0:1+ CR for earlier versions, potentially lower for emissions-controlled later versions)

Ignition Type:

Lucas Electronic Ignition

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 10.5 US quarts (9.9 Liters) with filter change.

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual (Moss Gearbox - Jaguar designation)

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic (Chrysler Torqueflite A727)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and Reverse are detailed in the manual.

Automatic Gear Ratios:

1st: 2.45:1, 2nd: 1.45:1, 3rd: 1.00:1, Reverse: 2.20:1

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Typically SAE 80W-90 GL-4 Gear Oil. (Refer to manual for specific Jaguar part numbers or approved equivalents).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF Type A or Dexron II. (Refer to manual for specific Jaguar part numbers or approved equivalents).

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2743 mm (108 inches)

Overall Length:

4731 mm (186.25 inches)

Overall Width:

1702 mm (67 inches)

Overall Height:

1219 mm (48 inches) for Coupe, slightly different for Roadster.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1519 kg (3350 lbs) for Roadster, 1588 kg (3500 lbs) for Coupe.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not typically published for this era of sports car, but refers to the maximum safe operating weight.

Wheel Size:

15 inch (typically 6J or 6.5J rim width).

Tire Size:

205 VR 15 or 215/70 VR 15 radial tires.

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120.65 mm (4.75 inch) PCD

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No formal crash test ratings exist for vehicles of this era by modern standards (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP). Design focused on structural integrity for its time.

Braking System:

Four-wheel Girling disc brakes with vacuum-assisted hydraulic system.

Seat Belts:

Lap belts were standard; three-point inertia reel seat belts were optional or standard on later models in some markets.

Structural Safety:

Integrated body-chassis construction for torsional rigidity. Robust passenger cell for the era.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically a period-correct AM/FM radio, often with an optional 8-track player or cassette deck fitted by owners. Modern upgrades are common.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard feature on the E-Type Series III.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports as standard. This manual would not cover such aftermarket additions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plug replacement and ignition system checks generally every 10,000-15,000 miles, with more frequent checks for timing and mixture adjustments.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 24,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate. (Check manual for exact Jaguar specification or approved alternatives, e.g., Castrol Classic XL 20W-50).

Coolant Specification:

50/50 mix of Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and distilled water. Jaguar Green or compatible coolant.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 High-Temperature Brake Fluid. (Ensure a reliable, modern fluid is used).

Engine Cooling:

Overheating issues can arise due to the V12's heat output, requiring diligent maintenance of the cooling system, including radiator, fan, and water pump. The original cooling fan may be insufficient for very hot climates.

Fuel Injection Reliability:

Bosch D-Jetronic system components (like the air flow meter, ECU, or injectors) can become aged and require specialized knowledge to diagnose and repair. Carburetor versions may also require careful tuning.

Chassis Corrosion:

As with many cars of this era, rust can be a significant issue, particularly in the chassis outriggers, sills, wheel arches, and floor pans. Regular inspection and preventative treatment are crucial.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aged wiring looms, connectors, and components can lead to intermittent electrical faults. Ensuring all grounding points are clean and secure is vital.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in suspension bushings (rubber or polyurethane) can lead to imprecise handling and noise. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Jaguar Legacy:

Jaguar Cars has a long history of producing elegant, high-performance sports cars and luxury vehicles, often associated with motorsport success and innovative engineering for their time.

Series Development:

The Series III was a significant update to the E-Type, introducing the larger V12 engine, a longer wheelbase (especially for the 2+2), and updated styling cues, moving it further into the GT category.

Production Period:

1971-1974

Production Volume Estimate:

Approximately 15,000 Series III E-Types were produced in total across all body styles.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Acclaim:

Consistently ranked among the most beautiful cars ever made by automotive journalists and enthusiasts worldwide. It is a design icon.

Performance Acclaim:

Praised for its smooth, powerful V12 engine and refined handling, solidifying its reputation as a premier grand tourer.

Heritage Status:

Recognized as a significant vehicle in automotive history, with many examples maintained as collectible classics.