I was told by some users here to immediately change the drum A into the updated one, change filter and ATF, and the valve pressure regulator.

The problem is I have no idea on how to change drum A or the pressure regulator. I have watched a few videos online of the process and it seems quite complicated. I really don't want to tear down and possibly even mess up an otherwise good transmission. Taking it to a professional means getting overcharged because people here in my area apparently hate working on old Jaguars because they're "too complicated and fragile". What options do I have?

 

It really isn't that complicated, the most difficult part is getting the transmission out and back in. When you set the transmission on end the A drum is right near the top and the parts all make sense and are not difficult to replace.

 

RJ, I’m pretty sure that a special tool is needed to compress the A drum clutch pack to remove the snap ring? It’s been about 10 years but, I remember my boss having to compress something with a special tool.

 

I have no tools for that. Even if I did, I'd need to purchase something to hold the transmission and push it up the already-lifted car.

 

Harbor freight transmission jack is what I used. I didn't use any special tools for disassembly.

 

Not to be a douche here, but are you starting to see why we suggested this may not be the best car for your situation?

If you can't work on it yourself, there must be an independent jaguar shop somewhere in the vicinity. You'll just have to pay what it costs

 

Have you already got the old transmission out?

If so have a go at stripping that down & see what you think. Lots of photos as you go & if you can get it back together ok then you can be pretty confident you can do it on the good replacement too.

 

That's actually a really good idea, will do this thanks.

 

I can work on basically anything else on this car, It's just the transmission that seems overly delicate and complex. I don't mind having a complicated car as a young guy. It's unique and gorgeous. I do have a Jaguar specialist near my home but I was told by another mechanic not to trust them, as they will do work one didn't ask for, then charge you for it later.

 

So just the jack and a drill?

 

Agree with Quadcammer here? You must understand owning a used luxury car gets no cheaper as the car ages. The value of the car plummets and the repair costs are high.
The only solution is to get rid of the car or DIY?

If you already DIY the other repairs with the amount of information out there you should have plenty of instructions.
Your comments show you have done the research and in many ways owning a 20+ year old car is good because ALL the problems have long since showed up and solutions have been found. But I think your thinking short term here? I would for sure do the work you posted.

It's a LOT of work to remove and re-install a transmission so don't do it more than once!
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Maybe best solution would be to take the new transmission to a transmission shop -- AAMCO here works on both BMWs and MBs with the ZF box -- have them rebuild the newer box's A drum, Transgo, and filter. Bring the car and have them swap boxes.