Don B post mentioning the Jaguar Classic Parts differential diagram sparked my interest.
"The parts diagram at jaguarclassicparts.com clearly shows a fill plug on the back cover of the X308 diff."

Look at number 7 Female Plug's location and number 3 Differential Case Breather on the diagram:

Here is the weblink to their webpage showing the Differential Assembly:

Differential Assembly - Parts For XJ Series from (V)812317 to (V)F59525 (X308) | Jaguar Classic Parts UK

Here is another weblink to the only other information I could on the internet about the differential (look at post #8 talks about the differential case breather):

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...al-leak-38375/

Jim Lombardi

 

Hi there!

I am getting ready to do the differential transplant on my 2000 XK8 in my garage. I really appreciate all the information about jack stands and 2X6 "skies".

I have been told that you need a fancy-dancy spring compressor to do this job. I saw no references to a spring compressor in the various posts on this subject.

What can you folks tell me?

Thanks!

Michael

 

I am in the process of replacing the diff on my 2001 (Nov) XJ8. The problem I have is that the replacement I have acquired has, at some stage, been dropped and damaged two of the studs that the half shaft bolts on to. How easy is it to remove the output shaft to replace these studs.
Thanks. Bill W.

 

Hi Michael,

You only need the fancy spring compressor for the front. The rear end will come out whole, along with the springs and shocks if you like depending on what you remove. I found it easiest to remove the entire rear with the exception of the brake calipers and working on it while it was on the ground.

 

Thanks to all of you for your advice and encouragement (?). The car goes under the knife in a couple of hours.

I will let you know how it turns out!

Michael