🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XK140

Mark Vii Generation:

First Generation (1949-1956)

Xk120 Generation:

First Generation (1948-1954)

Xk140 Generation:

Second Generation (1954-1957)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer (GT) and Luxury Saloon.

Competitors:

Aston Martin DB series, Bentley Continental, Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn, Mercedes-Benz W186 Adenauer.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data for owners and workshops to maintain and repair these classic vehicles, saving costs and ensuring optimal performance. Offers detailed step-by-step procedures and diagrams.

Intended Users:

Jaguar Mark VII, XK120, and XK140 owners, classic car restorers, automotive repair shops specializing in vintage vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and service for Jaguar Mark VII, XK120, and XK140 models. Covers front to back repairs.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely extensive, given the breadth of topics. Typical comprehensive workshop manuals of this era are often 500+ pages.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Supplement)

Manual Purpose:

Workshop manual designed for professional repair and maintenance, offering a high degree of technical detail suitable for skilled technicians and enthusiasts.

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed, as this era predates widespread digital manuals. May be available as a reproduction or original.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance, Firing Orders, Timing Belt Service Procedures (Note: Mark VII/XK series typically use chains, this might refer to related components or a general term for engine timing). Detailed Specifications.

Transmission Systems:

Transmission Removal and Installation, Transmission In-Car Servicing.

Chassis Systems:

Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications, Suspension, Brake Servicing Procedures, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures (Note: CV-joints less common on these models, likely referring to U-joints).

Electrical Systems:

Complete Wiring Diagrams.

Auxiliary Systems:

Air Conditioning Service and Capacities.

Diagnostic Systems:

Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts (Note: 'Computer Diagnostic' is an anachronism for this era, likely refers to systematic electrical/mechanical troubleshooting charts).

Body And Trim Service:

While not explicitly listed, a 'front to back' coverage implies bodywork, interior trim, and potentially electrical components beyond basic wiring.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step explanations for various repairs.

Maintenance Procedures:

Basic servicing to complete rebuilds, routine maintenance tasks.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common faults and performance issues.

Specification Data:

Detailed Technical Specifications, Complete Torque Specifications.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic servicing to in-depth engine overhaul and rebuilding. Suitable for experienced mechanics and ambitious DIYers with basic mechanical knowledge.

Diagnostic Approach:

Emphasis on systematic fault finding using symptoms, electrical schematics, and mechanical tolerances. 'Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts' is an unusual phrasing for this era, but implies a structured approach to diagnosing electrical or ignition issues, likely using wiring diagrams and test procedures.

Illustrations And Diagrams:

Includes illustrations, diagrams, and depth illustrations for clarity.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Assuming a reproduction, likely PDF or scanned image files. Original would be printed paper.

Print Quality:

Variable for reproductions; original would be standard print quality for the era.

Binding Type:

Original would likely be sewn or stapled binding; reproductions may vary.

Paper Type:

Original would be standard newsprint or paper stock of the period; reproductions may use higher quality paper.

Supplement Nature:

This is a supplement manual, suggesting it may cover specific updates, modifications, or areas not fully detailed in a base manual. It is crucial to understand if it complements a primary service manual or stands alone for certain aspects.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Jaguar Mark Vii Engine:

3.5-litre (3485cc) XK Inline-6 (XK350)

Jaguar Xk120 Engine:

3.4-litre (3442cc) XK Inline-6 (XK340)

Jaguar Xk140 Engine:

3.4-litre (3442cc) XK Inline-6 (XK340) - often with higher tune options available.

Mark Vii Horsepower:

Approximately 160 bhp @ 4,500 rpm (depending on tune and market)

Xk120 Xk140 Horsepower:

Approximately 160-180 bhp @ 5,000-5,500 rpm (depending on tune, e.g., standard, C-Type head)

Torque Specs:

Detailed torque specifications for engine components will be in the manual.

Carburetion:

Typically two SU or Zenith carburetors (e.g., 1.75" or 2.0" SU H6 or Zenith/Stromberg).

Engine Type:

Overhead Valve (OHV) inline-six cylinder, dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design within the XK family is a later development, but the core block and initial valve train are described.

Engine Block Material:

Cast iron block.

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum alloy cylinder head.

Ignition Type:

Distributor-based ignition system.

🔧 Transmission

Mark Vii Transmission:

4-speed manual gearbox, often with optional overdrive (Laycock de Normanville).

Xk120 Transmission:

4-speed manual gearbox with optional overdrive.

Xk140 Transmission:

4-speed manual gearbox with standard overdrive (on most models) or optional close-ratio gearbox.

Gearbox Type:

Moss four-speed gearbox is common in early XK models, later adopted synchromesh on higher gears. Mark VII likely features improved synchromesh from the outset.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Likely SAE 90 gear oil for manual transmissions. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Mark Vii Wheelbase:

115 inches (2921 mm)

Xk120 Wheelbase:

102 inches (2591 mm) for the Roadster and Drophead Coupe, 105 inches (2667 mm) for the FHC.

Xk140 Wheelbase:

104 inches (2642 mm) for the Roadster and Drophead Coupe, 104 inches (2642 mm) for the Fixed Head Coupe.

Mark Vii Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,700 - 4,000 lbs (1680 - 1815 kg)

Xk120 Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,100 - 3,400 lbs (1400 - 1540 kg)

Xk140 Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,200 - 3,500 lbs (1450 - 1590 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Era:

Safety standards of the era were significantly less stringent. Primarily focused on structural integrity and basic braking. Seat belts were not standard.

Braking System:

Hydraulic drum brakes on all wheels. Manual will cover brake servicing, adjustment, and potential upgrades.

Body Construction:

Body-on-chassis construction. Body panels are steel.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Basic AM radio (optional). No modern infotainment features.

Driver Assistance Features:

None. These vehicles predate modern driver assistance systems.

Connectivity Features:

None.

Overdrive System:

Laycock de Normanville overdrive (often optional or standard on XK140) provided a more relaxed cruising speed and improved fuel economy.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months. Manual will provide exact specifications for the period. Vintage engines may benefit from more frequent oil changes with modern oil formulations.

Tune Up Interval:

Regular checks of ignition timing, spark plugs, and carburetors recommended at least annually or every 6,000 miles. Manual will detail procedures.

Engine Oil Spec:

Likely SAE 20W-50 or SAE 20W-40 for these engines, depending on climate and oil technology of the era. Manual will specify. Modern high-zinc (ZDDP) oils are recommended for flat-tappet camshaft protection.

Coolant Spec:

Water/antifreeze mixture. Manual will specify proportions and type of antifreeze suitable for the period.

Brake Fluid Spec:

Likely DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid. Manual will confirm. Replacement every 2-3 years is recommended to prevent corrosion.

Engine Wear Points:

Main and connecting rod bearings, camshaft wear, cylinder bore wear, valve guides.

Transmission Issues:

Synchromesh wear, clutch wear, potential for layshaft bearing noise.

Chassis Issues:

King pin wear, suspension bushing degradation, brake system component wear (wheel cylinders, master cylinder).

Comprehensive Schedule:

The manual will provide a detailed maintenance schedule covering lubrication, filter changes, adjustments, and component inspections.

📚 Vehicle History

Jaguar Legacy:

Jaguar Cars (formerly S.S. Cars) has a long history of producing elegant, performance-oriented sports cars and luxury vehicles, originating from the UK.

Xk Series Legacy:

The XK series, starting with the XK120, revolutionized Jaguar's image post-WWII, showcasing advanced engineering and captivating design that blended racing success with road usability.

Mark Vii Development:

The Mark VII was a luxurious saloon designed for the North American market but also popular in the UK, sharing the advanced XK engine with the sports cars. It offered a blend of performance and comfort.

Production Period Mark Vii:

1949 – 1956 (Mark VII, VIIa, VIII, IX variations)

Production Period Xk120:

1948 – 1954

Production Period Xk140:

1954 – 1957

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Xk Series Racing Heritage:

The XK engine powered numerous successful Jaguar race cars, including Le Mans winners (C-Type and D-Type), cementing Jaguar's reputation for performance and engineering excellence.

Model Reputation:

These models are celebrated for their beautiful styling, potent engines, and exhilarating driving experience, making them highly collectible.