I am in process of having a '63 XK-E restored. The mechanic suggests that we install an electric power steering.
What do you think about that?
Surely it will make the driving experience nicer, but will it devalue the vehicle?
Would i be considered lesser of an antique car enthusiast, if i take advantage of modern conveniences?
Please let me know what you think.

 

If you use the solution designed for the car out of XKS or Driven Man it is largely hidden under the dash and, once in, it is pretty easy to pull back out. It isn't like anyone checks for a number matching steering column. So while typically making any change devalues the car, I really doubt this will and, if it does, it is easily reversed. If I was going to drive the car myself, to me, it would make it more valuable.

 

Thank you for your reply. I am happy to see you look at it this way. That's what i thought as well, but i have some friends who think it is all wrong.

 

It depends on what you're doing with the E-Type once restored. If you're going to drive it and enjoy longer trips, then the power steering will make it feel more modern.

If you're intending to show the E-Type in a Concours d'Elegance and intend to achieve Best in Class or high score, then any modification is going to result in a penalty.

 

Can you point us to the section of the JCNA judges guide that covers steering column inspection?

 

According to the on-line Judge's guide they don't even look at the steering column: https://www.jcna.com/library/tech/e-type1.pdf

 

Perhaps you should ask a qualified JCNA judge what they think.

 

As a JCNA Judge for the last 29 years, If I would find anything that is not authentic I would take a deduction for it. As for It not being called out in the Judges guide, that doesn't matter, not every little part is called out. If it can be seen and is not authentic (other than under the car or suspension - as per the Judging Rules) it will/should be a deduction.

Read the cover of the Judging Guide:
That includes the Spare Parts Catalogue published by Jaguar which shows 90+% of the parts that make-up the vehicle.

 

Thanks so much for all the really well thought out and conscientious answers here. I really appreciate it. I can now make my decision. I do intend to use the car, so I will proceed with the electric power steering.
At this point, I do not plan to show the car in competitions. If i later decide to start showing it, I would then consider removing the power steering again.
Thank you

 

Hi Mikker,
I don't know your situation or how you will be modifying your car. But unless your are going to put wide tires on it I wouldn't think you would need power steering.

Since you are spending the money to add electric steering I would try to find someone who has already made the conversion and see if you can drive thiers. That way you can see if you like the results. I would also rebuild/refinish the parts removed so that if you sell it the new owner can convert it back easily.