This MK5 DHC was discovered abandoned in a field and purchased by the previous owner in 1972. A first quick look suggests a lot of mechanical restoration work has been carried out since then but it has a long way to go. It still has its original 3.5 litre engine. This is how it arrived in the shop today. The objective is to continue where the previous owner left off and complete in a reasonable timeframe.

 

Have you got the whole body etc, as the photos show a lot missing. These cars were a stop-gap model due to delays in getting the Mark VII bodyshell into production. The Mark V was only in production for 2 years and there are very few around now. Both cars used the same chassis, and mechanically, there is much commonality with XK sports cars.

 

Most of it is there, although a full inventory has not been completed yet. A lot of it is pretty ratty but that's part of the challenge. More detailed pictures will be posted as the work progresses.

 

From the cleanliness of the garage, and everything well boxed and stored, you seem to have the matter well in hand. Presumably you have some heating in there too !


It's no secret that Jaguar had considerable trouble getting the Mark VII into production as the body shell was contracted out to Pressed Steel Ltd, unlike the one on the Mark V. So the chassis was ready but no body was available. With their customary ingenuity, Jaguar body people were able to produce a new traditional-looking body shell in record time to give the sales guys something to sell. Jaguar could have got in to serious financial difficulty without the Mark V, as there was no other saloon, and the sports cars were only made in penny packets.

 

Task 1 is a trial assembly of the body components to see what's missing and to develop a work plan. Some drawings of the body with dimensions would be very helpful - is that information out there or could anyone redirect to a source? Thank you.

 

There is a transverse support for the front fenders as shown below. It's not very obvious where it attaches to the chassis. Any input on that would be most welcome. (Sir William may be turning in his grave.)

 

OK. The fender support bracket is supported by the radiator shroud. Would not have expected that but pretty cool design with all the other struts/supports between the top of the radiator and the body. Which gives rise to the next four questions;


1. Would anyone know how much clearance there should be between the front firewall and aft end of the engine block?. See the first picture below.
2. There is a strut that attaches from the outer corners of the body to the chassis somewhere in the vicinity of the upper control arm as shown in the second picture. Any input on where it attaches to the chassis would be welcome?.
3. The engine bay side piece between the fender and the hood is missing. Would anyone have any pictures or sketch of this to facilitate fabrication - in particular how it is attached at the top and bottom?.
4. The last picture shows the radiator sitting on the chassis support bracket. Would anyone have details of the attachment - spacer, rubber mount, etc.?


Thanks.

 

I know Im butting in where i know nothing, but I see a new member who may be able to help.....