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I don't claim to be any sort of great mechanic, but I have changed a few parts in my time and tinkered around. I'd like to put together a took kit to keep in the trunk. What are some must haves you would include, specific to the S-Type?
(for 2002.5MY-on)
Enough tools (& instructions if you need them) to bypass the autobox gearchange lockout (whether due to failed brake microswitch or loose bolts or whatever).
Similar for the EPB, so you can motor it off rather than be stranded.
Nothing special, but it should get me home in a pinch. If nothing else, perhaps I could trade the tool kit for a ride home. My only gripe is the ratchet action was very coarse. I tossed it and had a spare that fit perfectly in the case. Double check the spark plug socket, too. I think the one in the kit was the wrong size. I tossed the spirit level (?) and the correct socket fit perfectly there. Make sure the socket extension is long enough for the spark plugs, but I think it was. Please note these are pretty cheap tools, so don't expect much. I don't use these as my regular tools at all. They just live in the trunk for emergency use.
One S-Type specific tool you NEED is something better than the stock lug wrench. For the stock lug nuts (steel core with a decorative Spin-O-Matic cover), get thee a breaker bar and socket that fits snugly. The stock lug wrench is aluminum, IIRC, and is a poor fit. It could easily leave you stranded. Like many others, I replaced the lug nuts (highly recommended) as detailed here:
The replacement lug nuts have a different hex size, so the stock lug wrench no longer fits. I got an inexpensive folding lug wrench that fits perfectly inside the foam insert for the spare. Remember, this lug wrench is only good for the replacement lug nuts, and is not recommended if keeping the stock lug nuts.
(for 2002.5MY-on)
Enough tools (& instructions if you need them) to bypass the autobox gearchange lockout (whether due to failed brake microswitch or loose bolts or whatever).
Similar for the EPB, so you can motor it off rather than be stranded.
Since I'm only a month into Jag ownership, could you point me towards instructions/threads on how to do those?
Nothing special, but it should get me home in a pinch. If nothing else, perhaps I could trade the tool kit for a ride home. My only gripe is the ratchet action was very coarse. I tossed it and had a spare that fit perfectly in the case. Double check the spark plug socket, too. I think the one in the kit was the wrong size. I tossed the spirit level (?) and the correct socket fit perfectly there. Make sure the socket extension is long enough for the spark plugs, but I think it was. Please note these are pretty cheap tools, so don't expect much. I don't use these as my regular tools at all. They just live in the trunk for emergency use.
One S-Type specific tool you NEED is something better than the stock lug wrench. For the stock lug nuts (steel core with a decorative Spin-O-Matic cover), get thee a breaker bar and socket that fits snugly. The stock lug wrench is aluminum, IIRC, and is a poor fit. It could easily leave you stranded. Like many others, I replaced the lug nuts (highly recommended) as detailed here:
The replacement lug nuts have a different hex size, so the stock lug wrench no longer fits. I got an inexpensive folding lug wrench that fits perfectly inside the foam insert for the spare. Remember, this lug wrench is only good for the replacement lug nuts, and is not recommended if keeping the stock lug nuts.
Thanks for the tip on the lug nuts, I'll have to pick up some new ones. Here's the basic kit I have in the trunk for now. It's one I bought for my motorcycle, but seems useful as a basic kit for the S-Type, I just need to round it out a bit, hence my question here.
I have most of the mentioned stuff plus a spare main serpentine belt and a special belt tensioner tool that i can get down in the space to the tensioner and a small led lantern with a magnetic base and a mini mag lite headlight that has a band to wear on your head
Nothing special, but it should get me home in a pinch. If nothing else, perhaps I could trade the tool kit for a ride home. My only gripe is the ratchet action was very coarse. I tossed it and had a spare that fit perfectly in the case. Double check the spark plug socket, too. I think the one in the kit was the wrong size. I tossed the spirit level (?) and the correct socket fit perfectly there. Make sure the socket extension is long enough for the spark plugs, but I think it was. Please note these are pretty cheap tools, so don't expect much. I don't use these as my regular tools at all. They just live in the trunk for emergency use.
One S-Type specific tool you NEED is something better than the stock lug wrench. For the stock lug nuts (steel core with a decorative Spin-O-Matic cover), get thee a breaker bar and socket that fits snugly. The stock lug wrench is aluminum, IIRC, and is a poor fit. It could easily leave you stranded. Like many others, I replaced the lug nuts (highly recommended) as detailed here:
The replacement lug nuts have a different hex size, so the stock lug wrench no longer fits. I got an inexpensive folding lug wrench that fits perfectly inside the foam insert for the spare. Remember, this lug wrench is only good for the replacement lug nuts, and is not recommended if keeping the stock lug nuts.
I just went back and peeked at that lug wrench you posted the pic of. Amazon says that one's 14", but I measure the factory one in the trunk at 20". Did you find a larger version of the Workpro?
And a Lithium Ion battery tyre inflator, I have one just like this: https://www.ebay.com/itm/17614037553...Bk9SR4b_-4qpYw
Again used it twice and works great, just remember to charge the battery up once in a while. Mine has a simple USB plug to charge from my PC, the linked one doesn't show that cable but it probably has it.
And a Lithium Ion battery tyre inflator, I have one just like this: https://www.ebay.com/itm/17614037553...Bk9SR4b_-4qpYw
Again used it twice and works great, just remember to charge the battery up once in a while. Mine has a simple USB plug to charge from my PC, the linked one doesn't show that cable but it probably has it.
Good reminder! I already have an inflator that runs off a 12V outlet, it's a small one for my motorcycle.
And a lithium ion battery powered jump starter - not just for your own car but great for helping out others get their car started when their battery has gone flat.
I got this one a few months ago and have successfully used it twice, once each on my hopeless nephews cars: https://www.ebay.com/itm/12262509729...3ABFBMjOi2jqlj
And a lithium ion battery powered jump starter - not just for your own car but great for helping out others get their car started when their battery has gone flat.
I got this one a few months ago and have successfully used it twice, once each on my hopeless nephews cars: https://www.ebay.com/itm/12262509729...3ABFBMjOi2jqlj
I have strongly considered getting one to carry, but honestly I am a bit wary of keeping one in the car full-time during the summer around here. Overheating a lithium battery can lead to bad consequences. The rest of the year shouldn't be a problem.
I have strongly considered getting one to carry, but honestly I am a bit wary of keeping one in the car full-time during the summer around here. Overheating a lithium battery can lead to bad consequences. The rest of the year shouldn't be a problem.
Where is "around here"?
I'm guessing southern USA where certain parts can get as hot as it does where I am.
A couple of days ago I was driving around in 45C = 113F.
I keep the jump starter in the glovebox as I have very little else in there and it stays nice and cool.
Maybe you can too but I suspect not.
I just went back and peeked at that lug wrench you posted the pic of. Amazon says that one's 14", but I measure the factory one in the trunk at 20". Did you find a larger version of the Workpro?
Sorry for any confusion. I only showed the Workpro version because it had a good illustration of how it folds up. The one I have came from a certain unnamed discount tool store that rhymes with Frarbor Weight. I forget the exact size but it was the only one they offered several years ago.
Another option is a socket and breaker bar. If keeping the stock lug nuts, you want a nice tight fit to grip the hex. The typical lug wrench, especially the factory paperweight, is way too sloppy and will cause the chrome cover to spin. Sockets usually have a much tighter fit and are less likely to slip. (The folding lug wrench I have is adequate for the one-piece aftermarket lug nuts.) Look around online, as you can get a telescoping breaker bar for easier storage in the trunk. Get the same drive size as the serpentine belt tensioner (3/8"?) and now your breaker bar is a dual-purpose tool.
Make sure your tool kit includes a small socket to remove the coils. IIRC, you may need a deepwell socket. An open end wrench would work, if you can get it down there.
Our cars are infamous for oil weeping into the spark plug wells and causing a misfire. Unless the leak is a gusher, you can sop up the oil with a paper napkin (or similar), restore normal operation, and get home for a proper repair.
Not sure which engine you have. On the V6, this temporary fix is only applicable for the easy bank.
Make sure your tool kit includes a small socket to remove the coils. IIRC, you may need a deepwell socket. An open end wrench would work, if you can get it down there.
Our cars are infamous for oil weeping into the spark plug wells and causing a misfire. Unless the leak is a gusher, you can sop up the oil with a paper napkin (or similar), restore normal operation, and get home for a proper repair.
Not sure which engine you have. On the V6, this temporary fix is only applicable for the easy bank.
Good idea. We have an STR, but I know at least one of the coils is said to be a challenge to access.
Not for the trunk, but still an essential tool to keep with you: Some sort of scanner for live data and fault codes.
Let's say you're miles from home and the engine starts running roughly. Depending on the severity of the fault, the check engine light may also illuminate. The problem could be as simple as a bad coil, but without a scanner, you'd have no easy way to know which one, even if you carried a spare. Or maybe the fuel pump is acting up. With live data, you can see the fuel pressure at the injector rail.
I have a basic scanner doohickey that connects via Bluetooth to an app on my phone. I leave the doohickey plugged in all the time. Works great, and I can view data quickly when needed.
I have a pretty standard set of tools in soft bag with a long 24" 1/4 drive extension and good universal joint. I use one piece lugs with a 13/16 size and a multi size folding lug wrench. I also have an ICarspot reader that only reads Jaguar/Landrover. It is the best reader and reads EVERYTHING, even the cats system.
NOTE: If you still have those two piece lugs, get rid of them. Those are pure junk. You can get one piece chrome plated perfect fit lugs from Amazon for about $30. They work fine and there are lots of other one piece choices. Always use anti seize on the lugs/studs. Oh yes, get a good rechargeable headlamp. It is dark under the Jag hood.
Must haves for a trunk tool kit
