Lady Jay died this morning. Her heart stopped at approx 8:30 a.m. No compression. Overheated and without warning - kaput.

So instead of buying another Jag XJ8 aluminum engine or burying her, I'm considering this conversion that a friend back in Annapolis did to his car, quite successfully.

Appreciate any feedback here!

 

Purist argument aside, I've seen it done a few times (Draguar on youtube, for example). They're cheaper to maintain, easy to get parts (and performance parts too), and reliable, as they've been around. I haven't looked at the conversion myself to know what to look for as far as fitment and how to interface with the ECU (or replace it with the GM one that would then interface to the systems in the computer. Mechanically, it does make sense if you can't replace the J plant. You'll just have to deal with people giving you grief for not having a Jag engine in a Jag

 

If you can justify the expense, here is the info:

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...xj8-xjr-70009/

 

I wonder if it would be easier/cheaper to find a used Jag engine and drop-in? I've seen breakers have engines (Jag?) that come with a limited (very) warrantee.

.

 

My thinking is if it's an R100, I wouldn't change it out. But anything "less", I'd definitely consider this way. I'm torn too, but I have a feeling that IF the engine in mine leaves me before the body goes downhill, then I might very well consider that route. a 600+ Hp semi-sleeper sounds quite fun indeed.

 

I think the biggest con is the reality that you will never be able to sell it for what you put into it or think that it is worth. There are simply too many that have been converted poorly that I would suspect anyone who can do it would rather do it themselves then buy someone else's frankenstein. That way they know know it is put together. I would first take a look at used engines at a place like Car-Part.com--Used Auto Parts Market Getting a solid use engine will likely be cheaper than you think, do the maint. before putting it in and you'll be ahead of the game.

 

Jags that run
V8 conversion manuals, parts for V8 S10, Datzun Z, Jaguar, Chevy TPI & TBI, Colorado, Astro Van V8, Volvo 200 & 700


Chevy conversions are referred to as a "LUMP". Lower upkeep, more power.


I have seen more poorly done conversions than really good ones..


You can buy a Jag with a bad transmission but good engine cheaper than just an
engine. A decent used engine with warranty is $2,600 plus install.




From an economic point, it is likely cheaper to find a new car and salvage what you
can from the old one.


I had my engine overheat in interstate traffic due to construction and it died before
I could get to a safe place. I spent the $$ to get a used Jag engine. That is the easiest route but not cheapest long term.

 

Thanks very much CharlzO. Appreciate the response!

 

Thank you, RJ!

 

Thanks, Al, we've considered replacing the engine but wonder if we're asking for the same problems - given the high temps in FL.

 

This car has had so many engine issues, it seems like a viable solution. Thanks.

 

Great points. Will ask our mechanic about installing a used engine. Thanks!

 

Amazing how quickly these cars overheat. I drove less than 1/2 mile after overheating before towing to mechanic. Thanks, food for thought.

 

It would be wise to monitor the engine temp and have alarms when it gets above normal. I have both the Realgauge conversion and an Ultragauge. The Jag engines are great as long as they are properly maintained and not allowed to overheat.

 

Probably, yes.

According to postings from Andrew in the previous thread......

Kit + interface $1400
Used engine and trans $1000-$4000 depending on spec
Misc bits $1000

That brings us to $3400-$7400

DIY labor or take to a shop?

Andrew estimates 60 hours labor. If we use a modest $75 rate that's $4500

So, we're at $7900 to $11,900 for the V8 conversion

Used Jag engine $2600 + $1200 labor (16 hours, a guess) + $300 misc (another guess) = $4100


$4100 vs $7900 assuming taking car to shop rather than DIY conversion

What's the market value of the car?


Cheers
DD

 

Andrew either has, or is close to having a LSx + Tremec T5 option
at $1800. They have developed the clutch actuation mechanism.

The site shows at least two installations on XK's.

That makes it a whole different kettle of fish if someone
wants a 5 speed manual at any cost.

So that would be:

GM LSx
Tremec T-5 five speed
Powertrac LSD differential from XJ40/X300
any ratio you want

without fiddling with the Jaguar computers

sleeper anyone?

++

 

On a DIY parts only basis, they are more competitive.

3400 vs. 2900 based on the above numbers

 

That was the problem. No advanced warning. Thermometer melted. Thanks.

 

Great pricing summary, comparison. Will share w/ my mechanic. Thanks!

 

I had a thermostat problem a while ago with the temperature gauge jumping/rocketing upwards... Shortly before the red zone. People told me the engine is dead. It isn't. Netherlands did it overheat nor did anything pop. Luck? I doubt it... The car shew me early enough... I watched the gauge... As all drivers do and should.