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This is a truly amazing website with so much support , knowledge and help. As a silent runner until now I just wanted to express my gratitude for all the contributions made that have helped me resurrect a Jag from the nearly-scrap!
Back in 07 I bought My First Jag, an 00 X XJ 308 and 45000 miles later it still hadn't given me any problems. Reluctantly sold it due to company car (a diesel Peugeot, for heaven's sake) and always regretted it.
Fast forward nine years after looking around for a while bought an X308 in meteorite on Good Friday 2019, full of confidence to drive it home, so naturally after 50 miles the already rattly engine gave off huge, billowing clouds of pure white smoke. Slightly alarmed, I pulled over, (as I had absolutely no power I didn't really have a choice) ,joined the AA there and then only to be insulted by their "very nice" man "bag of bolts, mate" and got it towed home at enormous expense.
One breather pipe later, went to a local Jaaaag specialist (brilliant guy, Hi Neal) who replaced the split breather pipe, upgraded the tensioners, belts, thermostat housing oil gaskets etc etc all the usual refinements. Got it home and took it for a drive only to produce huge, billowing clouds of pure white smoke. Dropped it back in once it calmed down, the problem was not only the split breather pipe but a previous bodge repair on a bent valve. Also, no thermostat in the engine at all.
Replaced the engine (thanks Neal) got spare keys cut, sourced extra remotes, pinned the roof lining (or quilted, if you prefer), managed to put it into Valet mode while trying to pair existing remote, got that sorted (thanks Neal)...
sticky front brakes resulted in new pads and one new calliper, replaced the aircon radiator and got the aircon regassed,
wheels tracked and balanced (how much can a steering wheel shake anyway?)
replaced the boot lock switch, sometimes the boot lights work and sometimes they don't, re soldered the boot loom to repair 5 connections,
replaced the eye level brake bulbs with LEDs (BULB FAIL just induces a sigh now, it's the lower voltage from LEDs) took off passenger door card, replaced passenger door speaker and corrected sticky locking mechanism (reposition silver stud which pops out by screwing and unscrewing - don't knock it, it worked)
had one blown bulb behind the dash board so upgraded all to LEDs (much brighter but dimmer only works when exterior lights are on), got drivers door bent back into shape (thanks Neal) (previous elderly owner locked keys in the boot and Jaguar dealership wrenched open the door and bent it) replaced the centre console arm rest because cup holders, (what do you mean, it's the wrong colour? Wait... they do a colour called Antelope???)
It passed the MOT needing only a minor weld and new ball joint and arm (thanks Neal)
Got in it a couple of weeks ago to find the radio LCD had started to leak, so replaced the unit. Two days later one of the bulbs in the climate section blew so replaced that unit too.
And that's all I've had to do to it!
Currently, the climate is still giving out hot air even though it should be cold... bushes need doing (obvs) , the catalytic convertor has developed a rattle (need a little cat for my big cat) and I"m going to sort the rust in the usual places before tidying up the bodywork with a nice lick of paint.
It's been a massive project, happily not a car I need to rely on but have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this car inside out. Every time I make something better I fall in love just that little bit more.
A lot of the tasks I've undertaken have been following advice on these forums, so massive thank you for the collaborative team effort here (also, thanks Neal!)
If I see anyone needs to know anything about the things I've done on this one I'll help as much as I can.
..... joined the AA there and then only to be insulted by their "very nice" man "bag of bolts, mate" and got it towed home at enormous expense. .....
Welcome to the forums Stuart,
Hence the RAC badge on the grille.
I can see you've already found your way to the X308 forum so there's no need for a link to it from me. The 'HOW TO' thread at the top is a good place to start for information on regular issues. You can also use the UK & Eire Region forum by following this link https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/uk-eire-68/ to find other members in your region.
Please add vehicle details to your Signature to help others to give relevant advice. Go to the User CP button on the left of the top menu bar, then Settings & Options under Your Control Panel. Select Edit Signature and enter the details.
If you haven't done so already you should add your car details to your signature to help others to help you.
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...Every time I make something better I fall in love just that little bit more....
Hello, Stuart,
This is how they wheedle their way into your heart. They get you to FIX them and WORK on them, and then they OWN you. The two of you are now well and truly Bonded!
Congratulations on your Latest Jaguar and all your successful repairs.
I thought I noticed sold a Jag for a diesel Peugeot, I must get the old eyes tested.
What does this mean does this happen?
I need some pills.
You have a Jag again.
All is better.
John
New Member Lincolnshire UK
