🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XK120 / Mk VII

Model Variant:

This manual specifically covers the XK120 series, which includes models produced alongside or in close relation to the Mk VII range, as indicated by the product name. It's important to note the overlap and distinct identities of these models within Jaguar's history.

Chassis Codes:

XK120: Early models designated as XK120, later as XK121 (for 120 mph top speed). Mk VII models typically had their own distinct chassis designations (e.g., 363 for Mk VII).

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners, restorers, and mechanics specializing in classic Jaguar sports cars and luxury saloons of the late 1940s and early 1950s.

Value Proposition:

Provides access to factory-level repair information, crucial for maintaining the originality and integrity of these iconic vehicles. Essential for DIY enthusiasts and professional shops working on XK120s and similar era Jaguars.

Distinctive Value:

Hundreds of photos and illustrations, step-by-step instructions, complete disassembly guidance, factory-level detail, cost-saving for maintenance and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive factory service and repair for the Jaguar XK120 Series, likely including elements relevant to closely related Mk VII models as a shared platform or period context.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely several hundred pages, given the depth described. Actual count would be in the manual itself.

Type:

Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (standard for factory manuals of this era)

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Mechanical Systems:

Engine (XK Twin-Cam), Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Clutch, Gearbox (Moss, later Jaguar Gearbox), Drive Shaft, Rear Axle, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Drum, later Girling disc options may be detailed), Wheel Bearings.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System Components, Starting System, Charging System (Generator), Instruments, Horn, Wiper System.

Bodywork And Chassis:

Body Construction (steel body on chassis), Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Fenders, Trim, Seats, Upholstery, Chassis Frame (if applicable to XK120's construction which was a monocoque derivative), Paint and Finish.

Maintenance And Adjustment:

Routine checks, lubrication, tune-ups, valve adjustments, ignition timing, carburetor adjustments, brake adjustments, suspension lubrication.

Disassembly And Assembly:

Complete step-by-step instructions for major component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation, including engine, gearbox, rear axle, suspension, steering, and braking systems.

Troubleshooting And Diagnostics:

Identification of common problems, fault finding procedures, and diagnostic techniques for various systems.

Special Tools And Techniques:

Likely details specific Jaguar tools or techniques required for certain repair operations.

Depth:

Highly detailed factory specifications, tolerances, torque values, and procedures, suitable for professional mechanics and serious enthusiasts aiming for factory-correct restorations and repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Assumed to be text-searchable if the PDF was generated from a digital source or properly OCR'd.

Printable:

Yes, all pages are printable.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format, not physically bound)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format, not physically printed)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Jaguar XK Twin-Cam Straight-6 (DOHC)

Displacement:

3.4 Liters (3442 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

83 mm x 105 mm

Compression Ratio:

Typically 8.0:1 (varied slightly with tune and fuel availability)

Horsepower:

Approx. 160 bhp @ 5,500 rpm (for standard XK120)

Torque:

Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm

Carburetion:

Typically two SU H6 Carburetors (or similar Zenith/Stromberg units in some variants/later models).

Fuel Type:

Premium Leaded Gasoline (historically).

Ignition Type:

Coil and Distributor (Lucas or similar).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Moss Gearbox (pre-selector, four-speed manual with overdrive on some models) for early XK120. Later models and Mk VII saloons often featured a conventional Jaguar four-speed manual or optional Borg-Warner automatic.

Optional Transmission:

Borg-Warner DG Automatic Transmission (available on some later XK120 models and Mk VII).

Overdrive:

Available on some XK120 models (often designated with 'OD').

Gearbox Oil:

Specific gear oil (e.g., EP 90 or equivalent, consult manual for exact spec) for Moss box; different specification for later Jaguar gearboxes and automatics.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

XK120: 102 inches (2591 mm); Mk VII: 118 inches (2997 mm)

Length:

XK120 DHC/FHC: Approx. 168 inches (4267 mm); Mk VII: Approx. 196 inches (4978 mm)

Width:

XK120: Approx. 62 inches (1575 mm); Mk VII: Approx. 72 inches (1829 mm)

Height:

XK120 FHC: Approx. 51 inches (1295 mm); Mk VII: Approx. 63 inches (1600 mm)

Curb Weight:

XK120: Approx. 2,900 - 3,300 lbs (1315 - 1497 kg) depending on body style (OTS, DHC, FHC); Mk VII: Approx. 3,750 lbs (1700 kg).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A (Typically not explicitly stated in this era, but implied by chassis load capacity).

Wheel Size:

Typically 16-inch steel wire wheels or disc wheels.

Tire Size:

Commonly 6.50-16 or 7.00-16.

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 4.5 inch (5 x 114.3 mm) stud pattern.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No formal crash test data as understood by modern standards existed for vehicles of this era. Safety was primarily passive and structural.

Braking System:

Hydraulic drum brakes on all wheels. Later XK120 models and some Mk VIIs could be fitted with optional Girling front disc brakes.

Steering System:

Worm and roller steering, typically without power assistance.

Seat Belts:

Not standard equipment, typically an aftermarket addition or a later option.

Body Construction:

Robust steel body, relatively low center of gravity for its time, contributing to stable handling.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Original systems would be basic AM radios (e.g., Lucas) or no radio. Modern restorations often integrate period-correct looking units with modern features (e.g., FM, Bluetooth).

Dashboard Features:

Analogue gauges for speed, RPM, oil pressure, water temperature, fuel, and ammeter. Simple controls for lights, wipers, heater (if fitted).

Driver Aids:

None by modern standards. Focus was on the driving experience.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No factory connectivity features).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, using period-appropriate mineral oil. Modern equivalents may offer extended intervals.

Grease Points:

Regular lubrication of chassis grease points (suspension, steering, driveshaft) is critical, often required at 1,000-3,000 mile intervals depending on the specific point.

Valve Adjustment:

Recommended every 5,000 - 10,000 miles, or as per manual guidance.

Engine Oil Grade:

Historically SAE 20W-50 or SAE 30 mineral oil. Modern high-zinc (ZDDP) racing or classic car oils are recommended.

Coolant:

Water/antifreeze mixture (e.g., 50/50 ethylene glycol) with anti-corrosion additives. Consult manual for specific type.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on original specification and if hydraulic system has been updated. Must be suitable for drum and/or disc brakes as applicable.

Clutch Fluid:

Typically shared with brake fluid system (DOT 3/4) if hydraulic.

Common Problems:

Carburetor tuning and synchronization, ignition system reliability (Lucas components), Moss gearbox synchro wear (if applicable), cooling system efficiency (radiator, water pump), brake drum wear and adjustment, universal joint wear, chassis rust (depending on climate and care).

Engine Wear:

Oil consumption can increase with age; main and big-end bearing wear are common in high-mileage engines.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origin:

United Kingdom, founded by Sir William Lyons.

Brand Philosophy:

'Grace, Pace, and Space' - a focus on elegant design, high performance, and comfortable interiors.

Xk120 Introduction:

Launched in 1948 at the London Motor Show as a show car to debut the new XK engine. It was an immediate sensation and put into limited production, becoming a legendary sports car.

Xk120 Variants:

Offered initially as an Open Two-Seater (OTS or Roadster), followed by a Fixed-Head Coupé (FHC) and Drop-Head Coupé (DHC).

Mk Vii Relation:

The Mk VII (launched 1951) was Jaguar's first four-door saloon built around the XK engine. It shared engineering principles and the powerful XK powerplant, making it a high-performance luxury car. The manual likely addresses shared components or context.

Production Years:

XK120: 1948-1954; Mk VII: 1951-1956.

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England.

Impact:

The XK120 redefined post-war sports car performance and aesthetics, while the Mk VII cemented Jaguar's reputation for building luxurious, fast saloons.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Accolades:

The XK120 itself is an automotive icon, frequently lauded for its design, performance, and racing success in period events (e.g., Mille Miglia, Le Mans, Carrera Panamericana). While the manual itself doesn't win awards, its content is essential for preserving the vehicle's award-winning pedigree.

Classic Car Status:

Highly collectible and consistently ranked among the greatest sports cars of all time by automotive publications.

Manual Authentication:

Described as 'Highly Detailed factory service repair manual,' implying it reflects official Jaguar documentation standards.