Hi Everyone

A bit of a long shot perhaps but a kind soul directed me this forum for assistance.
I have a 4.2l 6 engine in bits and pieces, from a XJ6 apparently. literally...pieces. its apparently all there with a few exceptions(so the person giving it to me tells me)
I'm looking to refurb it a bit(minor refurb only) and was wanting to do it myself as i like to tinker, the idea to get it running again in goodish condition (this car will not be doing high millage)
it will be used for a future XJ6

my main question is. how would i know for sure what series its from? ie S1 2 or 3?

and based on that what is a good source of parts in the UK for rebuild parts. Gaskets. Carb Sets, oil and water pump etc

Any recommendations on this particular engine on what to look for and what most certainly to refurb based on known engine issues of this type?

It has Twin SU carbs
Engine number is 8L1843**
More than that sadly I dont know
Thanking you in advance

 

The engine number should identify the engine. It should be stamped into the block. Try to find and post that on here.

 

Thank you. Engine number is 8L1843**

 

8L block with twin carbs tells me its from a Series 2 XJ. Series 1 used the 7L block, and Series 3 4.2 litre cars were all fuel injected. If it's all in bits and pieces, check the block face between the bores for cracking. If you have cracks, rebuilding is pretty pointless as you'll get constant head gasket failures due to deck sinkage at the crack locations. These cracks extend down to a cross-block water passage covered by the cylinder liner. Just facing off the block is pointless.

Look at the process for curing it here: -
Jim's Automotive Machine Shop, Inc. - YouTube

 

Many thanks. That's perfect thank you

 

I replaced my cracked block engine from a series 2 with an engine that had fuel injection. Does this mean that the engine will not suffer from the cracking woes from earlier engines? Alec G.