I recently picked up an 86 XJ6 that has a decent body and interior but seems to have a few mechanical issues.

Speedometer rarely works. Gas gauges show maybe an eighth of a tank, the other one shows empty even though I've filled them both. Wouldn't be such a big deal except with the speedometer not working the odometer doesn't either so it's not like I can guestimate how far I can drive before running out of fuel.

Also, brake boost seems to work, then not work. Fortunately the brakes still work, you just have to push the pedal all the way to the floor to get them to work when the booster seems to not be working.

Still some other little gremlins like slight front end shake but only at certain speeds and a sometimes rough idle.

Gotta get all this taken care of ASAP as I bought the car for my Mom as a homecoming present now that she's moving back to America from Scotland.

Maybe I just need a good Jag mechanic here south of Boston, MA

Any help is appreciated!!!!!

 

In almost all cases weird speedometer operation is caused by a failing speedometer transducer. About $100; RH side of trans; simply screws into place. See picture

Fuel gauge problems are seldom the gauge itself; usually it's the sending units in the tanks. Easy to replace; located behind the tail light assemblies.

Brakes: what's the history of the car? If uncertain a full inspection is called for. The pedal going to the floor might be the master cylinder 'bypassing'.

Post back, if needed, for more details on any of this

Cheers and welcome aboard

DD

 

Forgot to attach the pic of the transducer !

 

Hey Doug,

Thanks for the quick reply.

The car had been sitting for a while. Last inspection sticker was from 2010. I think the front rotors and pads should just be replaced plus while in there there's the opportunity to inspect the rest of the front suspension.

Thanks again for the advice!!!!!!

 

One more quick question. Where is the best place to get parts for my XJ?

 

'Tis the rear brakes that are most likely to have been neglected!

Even if everything looks a good a brake fluid flush should be done

Cheers
DD

 

There's no single place.

There are many good Jag specialists: SNG Barrat, Coventry West, Welsh Jaguar, Motorcars Ltd, Paul's Jaguar.

For used parts there's Everyday XJ...great guy runs the place. Everybody love him !

Plus, Rock Auto, FPC Euro....the list goes on and on

Your local NAPA Auto Parts and other franchised outlets can get lots Jag stuff as well

When you're ready to buy something let us know. Many here can make specific recommendations depending on what you are shopping for

Cheers
DD

 

It is a great thing that a car as old as ours are have such great support. Parts and information abound.


A great surprise present for Mom. They deserve it. But, it must be safe.


Start with good dependable brakes. Start with a visual. Looking for leaking cylinders and lines.


Doug is on to it. The inboard rear brakes are easy to neglect.


Fluid level? Brake fluid clean or dirty. Each has implications.


Solid line from the intake manifold to the Boost bellows.


Carl

 

shop around!! parts are not expensive, have your VIN handy when ordering, some parts were updated during mid-year. Here's a few Jaguar parts supplier links that have good reputations:

SNG Barratt - The Ultimate Jaguar Parts Specialist (this one is a subsidiary from the UK firm but in the USA and near you)

Jaguar XJ6 Parts and Filters - MotorcarsLtd.com (Houston, Texas)

Jagbits Jaguar Parts: 1969-1987 XJ6 Parts Catalog (New Mexico)

 

I tried a couple guy's south of Boston, but they either used incorrect parts or thought working on a 5.0 qualified them. Samuels won't be cheap, but then again you don't buy a Jag without expecting reliably expensive repair bills if you can't wrench yourself.