🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XJ-SC

Body Style:

2+2 Convertible

Generation Name:

XJ-S Convertible (Pre-facelift and facelift covered within the timeframe)

Internal Model Code:

XJ-SC (often referred to as XJ-S Convertible)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible

Competitors:

BMW 6 Series Convertible, Mercedes-Benz SL, Porsche 928 Convertible (where applicable), Aston Martin V8 Vantage convertible

Design Philosophy:

Elegant styling, powerful V12 engine (primarily), comfortable grand touring capabilities, rear-wheel drive dynamics

Target Audience:

Affluent buyers seeking a refined, powerful, and stylish convertible for comfortable long-distance touring.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991

Total Pages:

362

Type:

Workshop Service Manual for Repair

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (including V12 variants, EFI, Carbureted), Transmission (Automatic, Manual), Drivetrain (Rear-wheel drive, differentials)

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering (power steering), Brakes (hydraulic systems, ABS for later models), Wheels and Tires

Body And Interior:

Body structure, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, HVAC, seats, body panels, glass

Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, engine control unit (ECU) and wiring diagrams

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair and rebuild, brake caliper and disc replacement, suspension component replacement, convertible top hydraulic system service

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, cooling system issues, fuel system problems, and drivability concerns

Disassembly And Assembly:

Step-by-step guides for removing and installing major components and sub-assemblies

Adjustments:

Carburetor tuning, fuel injection system adjustments, ignition timing, valve clearances (if applicable to specific engine variants), suspension alignment checks

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and system diagnostics. Includes detailed torque specifications, wear limits, and component testing procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Printable

Binding:

Digital Download (N/A for physical binding)

Paper Quality:

Digital PDF (N/A for physical paper type)

Reader Software:

Adobe Reader

Operating Systems:

Windows, Mac, Linux OS

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V12 (5.3L / 6.0L), Inline-6 (3.4L, 4.2L for early XJ-S models, though XJ-SC primarily associated with V12)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 245-280 hp (depending on year and engine variant)

Torque Range:

Approx. 300-370 lb-ft (depending on year and engine variant)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (later models), Carburetors (earlier models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic (Jaguar's own design or GM TH400)

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual (less common on XJ-SC, more on earlier XJ-S coupes)

Overdrive:

Included in 4-speed automatic transmissions for improved fuel economy

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.1 inches (2593 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 193.5 inches (4915 mm)

Overall Width:

Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 49.5 inches (1257 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3750 - 4100 lbs (1700 - 1860 kg) depending on engine and options

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Information limited for this era; focus on robust chassis and body construction.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) introduced on later models.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed cassette player with AM/FM radio, often with premium speaker systems.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (introduced on later models, usually as an option or standard on higher trims).

Auxiliary Input:

Typically not available in its original form; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on usage and oil type.

Major Service:

Recommended every 12,000 - 15,000 miles, including checks of transmission, suspension, brakes, and cooling system.

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 20W-50 or 10W-30 depending on climate and engine condition). Castrol GTX or equivalent is often recommended.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Jaguar recommends specific coolant types; consult manual.

Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid specification varies; consult manual.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Regular flushing is recommended.

Engine Related:

V12 engine can be complex to service; fuel injection system maintenance; oil leaks; thermostat housing issues.

Chassis Related:

Corrosion in bodywork and chassis; wear in suspension bushings; potential leaks in hydraulic systems (steering, convertible top).

Electrical Related:

Wiring harness degradation over time; Lucas electrical components can be prone to failure; minor electrical gremlins are not uncommon.

Convertible Top:

Hydraulic leaks in the convertible top mechanism; wear in seals and weatherstripping; motor and pump issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Jaguar Cars has a long history of producing elegant, performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure and refined engineering.

Predecessor:

E-Type

Introduction Year:

1975 (XJ-S, from which XJ-SC derived)

Convertible Introduction:

1983 (XJ-SC)

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The XJ-S and its variants, including the XJ-SC, were generally praised for their styling and performance by automotive journalists of the era, though some criticized its complexity and handling compared to some German rivals.