Itch to scratch or not

[bassist]

OK so there is nothing wrong with the SL I love it to bits BUT, I still have a yearn for an XK Jaguar

Am I completely mad or are there sound reasons for not going there ?

The XK is such a beautiful car and I can't fault my S Type after 5 years so what do I do ????????????

I hasten to add it would need to be an early product 97/98.

 

[corned]

Check for the nikasil bore liner issue as it would be pre-2001, but other than that they are a hoot. And you will not find a rusty one.

Tyres are massive, so I expect they aren't too cheap... If you are thinking of a rag-top then beware the hydro fluid for the roof can congeal in the pipes, requiring some specialist time to flush/replace.

Other than that... Go on - you know you want to!

 

[BTB 500]

On the convertible the hood doesn't stow inside the car when down ... looks like a pram.

 

[DSM10000]

Check for the nikasil bore liner issue as it would be pre-2001, but other than that they are a hoot.

Tyres are massive, so I expect they aren't too cheap...

Go on - you know you want to!

If it has made it this far then the liner problem should not arise,make sure you get a proper compression check carried out though to ensure all is well there.

Just as important in terms of checking is the timing chain guides and tensioners. The early ones are plastic and after exposure to heat and hot oil they can become brittle and break so it is always worth ensuring a car has had these changed for the upgraded parts. If not allow £600-800 for replacement.

Front suspension can also wear, wishbones and control arms are common failures and can be expensive to sort out, excessive front tyre wear is a sign all is not well and the rear suspension needs to be in good order, like MB rust is also an issue on some.

 

[bassist]

I just knew that that Bill would come up with a Silvercross answer !!
I know about the Nikasil and the timing chain guides. I also know that they were a bit iffy with regard to the suspension but I would imagine that as corned has said, at least they don't go rusty. Not that the SL's do either.
Look forward to any replies from current owners with comparisons, if any.

 

[TDE1]

Missus's dad is selling one of his Jags. It's an XK8, light gold / silvery, early model. I love it to bits.

Had a thought about treating myself, but I've already got an MB V8 and a BM straight 6, so can't really justify it (to Mrs TDE1, that is ).

He's in Worcester though, so bit of a trek. PM if you fancy a look, and will send some pics / info.

 

[DSM10000]

Gearboxes are also fragile, rebuilds or replacements at 80,000 is not uncommon.

 

[LTD]

The XK is such a beautiful car and I can't fault my S Type after 5 years so what do I do ????????????

You sell me your SL for £1000

 

[corned]

Gearboxes are also fragile, rebuilds or replacements at 80,000 is not uncommon.

They were fitted with MB 722 gearboxes, weren't they?

 

[BTB 500]

I just knew that that Bill would come up with a Silvercross answer !!

LOL I do think they're good looking cars - would have seriously considered one if it wasn't for that hood

 

[corned]

Ah, but at least it leaves room for its intended purpose - luggage. Same cannot be said for the SL.

(Well, the 230 for certain - not sure about older variants)

 

[John]

They were fitted with MB 722 gearboxes, weren't they?

Not sure exactly which but they did run MB autos, as did the XJ of that era.

The problem I understand it is due to 'sealed for life' i.e. a life of 80,000 miles because the fluid hasn't been changed.

 

[BaldGuy]

My bro in law has 2007 XKR in black, a ltd editio of some sort.....I'm all over it in my 911.... Still a lovely car though...

 

[DSM10000]

They were fitted with MB 722 gearboxes, weren't they?

Non supercharged versions had a ZF 'box, supercharged models used an MB gearbox. The revised 4.2 l models both used a ZF 6 speed gearbox.

 

[Peter T]

Watch out for the Brembo brakes, if fitted. They are prone to warped disc problems if not run-in properly and are expensive to replace.

Also the 20 inch wheels can be a problem. They look like split rims, but are not. Any attempt to split one scraps the wheel!

 

[BTB 500]

Ah, but at least it leaves room for its intended purpose - luggage. Same cannot be said for the SL.

(Well, the 230 for certain - not sure about older variants)

The OP was talking about a '97-'98 car so comparison would be with the R129... which has a great boot. That's one of the reasons I dropped my idea of 'upgrading' to a 230!

Of course you also get a hard top with an R129

 

[bassist]

Ok Ok so apart from,
Possible Nikasil problems,
Tyre size and expense,
Hydro fluid for roof risk,
pram type roof,
No hardtop,
Timing chain tensioners,
front suspension,
6 speed ZF boxes
(already had my S Type TC replaced, Same box)
Brembo brake failure,
20" non split wheels,
and finally the very thought of a 911 attempting to have s*x with me from behind.

what else is likely to go wrong ?............ LOL

 

[corned]

Nothing!

Now come on - get your cheque book out!