OK, I'm 90% sure I need an A-drum in the 2001 XJ8. My transmission guy is moving, and I don't have time to mess with it. Does anyone know of a Jag-friendly transmission shop in TN, or maybe someone on the forums that works on these?

 

I'd ask your transmission guy before he moves. Most all shops know who each other are.

 

He's working out of his house - not even actually a Jag guy, but I trust him. He doesn't know of anyone who has worked on Jag transmissions.

 

Versions of the ZF 5HP24 transmission were used in lots of BMWs, Audis, and other makes as well as Jaguars, so any good transmission shop that works on European cars will probably be familiar with your gearbox. It might be worth calling a few shops and describing the symptoms and asking what they think (don't mention your A drum suspicion). A shop that knows these gearboxes will probably be able to give you some likely suspects (like the A drum or pressure control valve) without having to go look it up.

 

I like that approach, thanks!